In 2025, an article by the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space was published in the scientific journal of the Siberian Institute of Solar-Terrestrial Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It discussed the aurora borealis in Oman — a phenomenon so rare in these latitudes. Meanwhile, cooperation between Russia and the Sultanate extends far beyond academic observations. During January consultations in Muscat, the parties discussed the potential for collaboration in the Indian Ocean, and the Group of Strategic Vision "Russia - Islamic World" held talks on economic and humanitarian cooperation. It is significant that one of the Group's founders was at the forefront of relations between the two countries. The Sultanate of Oman, whose history begins with the adoption of Islam, is confidently strengthening its position as Russia's strategic partner.
As early as the 8th century, Omanis united around an elected imam — the bearer of spiritual and secular authority — leading to the formation of an independent imamate. This stems from the religious beliefs of the Ibadis, an Islamic sect distinct from both Sunni Islam and Shiism. The Ibadiyya, named after Abdullah ibn Ibad, make up the majority of Oman's population. The tradition of electing an imam was interrupted: first by the Al Yarub dynasty, which established a hereditary monarchy, and later by the Al Said dynasty, which still rules today. The transfer of the center of power to Muscat led to years of fragmentation and civil strife. In the 20th century, the Al Said dynasty succeeded in unifying the country, and in 1970, under Sultan Qaboos, the state officially became the Sultanate of Oman.
The reign of Sultan Qaboos also saw the first serious contact with the predecessor of the Russian Federation. In 1984, Yevgeny Primakov, one of the initiators of the Group of Strategic Vision "Russia - Islamic World" and then director of the Institute of World Economy and International Relations, arrived in Muscat with a special message from the USSR General Secretary. Diplomatic relations were established in September of the following year.
In the 21st century, relations reached a new level: TMK acquired a controlling stake in the Gulf International Pipe Industry plant in Oman, and Russian ships made repeated port calls in the Sultanate. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's visit in 2016 cemented this relationship: Oman supported Russia's Gulf security concept and its pragmatic approach to Syria and Yemen. Following her visit to Oman that same year, Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko reaffirmed their shared approaches: renunciation of military intervention and respect for sovereignty.
Without aspiring to regional leadership, Oman consistently builds its external profile on the principles of "soft power": reliance on diplomacy, peace, and mediation. Under Sultan Qaboos, the country joined the UN, the Arab League, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), establishing relations with more than 130 countries while maintaining a balance between the West, including military cooperation with the US, and regional players.
A distinctive feature of Oman's policy is its refusal to sever ties even in the face of conflict: Oman maintained ties with Iraq after its aggression against Kuwait, was the only GCC country not to reduce its representation with Iran, and serves as a mediator in US-Iranian relations. One can also recall its mediation in the Qatar crisis. The Sultanate has resolved disputes with its neighbors and participated in multilateral negotiations. The new Sultan, Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, reaffirmed his commitment to the previous approach, which has proven effective in ensuring Oman's stability and international standing.
The Sultanate is increasingly emerging as a center of tourism and cultural heritage: the forts of Nizwa, Matruh, Jalali, and Mirani, Fikain and the Bahla Fortress, the aflaj irrigation systems, the archaeological sites of Bat, Al-Khutm, Al-Ain, the city of Qalhat, and the Land of Frankincense. Oman preserves unique nature and architecture — from the Jebel Samhan and Ras al-Hadd nature reserves to the Daymaniyat Islands. The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage is actively implementing artificial intelligence as part of its national strategy. According to 2025 data, tourist flow from Russia is growing dynamically (more than 100% in nine months), fueled by direct flights, visa-free travel, and the opening of an Omani representative office in Russia.
The Oman Vision 2040 strategy aims to diversify the economy and develop infrastructure. In this context, Oman is interested in participating in the North-South International Transport Corridor. According to Hamed al-Dahab, head of the Omani-Russian Business Council, the country has already begun cooperation with Russia and aims to become a logistics hub with access to African and Asian markets. The port of Khasab, near Bandar Abbas, Iran, could play a key role. Developing the corridor is in the interests of both countries, promoting trade diversification, infrastructure development, and cost reduction.
Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, recently hosted the international exhibition "In the Name of Universal Values," which focused on mutual understanding, good neighborliness, and peace in Oman. Arriving from Moscow, it traveled to other Russian regions. During its grand opening at the Al-Marjani Mosque in Kazan, praise for the Sultanate's cherished approach to its culture and traditions was repeatedly expressed. Oman is a unique example of an Arabian monarchy that consistently pursues an independent course, making it a valuable partner for Russia.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
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