The total population of Oman is estimated to be 2,845,000 (2009 est.) The overall population density was only about 9 persons per sq km (about 20 per sq mi).
Politics of Oman takes place in a framework of an absolute monarchy whereby the Sultan of Oman is not only head of state, but also the head of government.
Perhaps the most distinctive local drink is traditional coffee (gahwa) – although this doesn’t bear much resemblance to European coffee.