Oman, Arabian Peninsula
Population: 3,204,897 (includes 577,293
non-nationals)Christians: 2-3% (expatriates)
Dominant Religion: Ibadhi and Sunni Islam
Persecution Ranking: 28th
Political Leader: P.M. Qaboos bin Said Al Said
Religious Freedom in Constitution: Yes
Oman is unique in several ways. For many citizens, their mother tongue is Swahili, a legacy of ancient trading links with East Africa. The dominant religion is Ibadhi Islam, which is distinct from the more common Sunni and Shia Islam. There are recognized churches for expatriate Christians. The government tolerates informal worship in homes by unregistered groups and by followers of recognized religions in towns without official places of worship. It also monitors mosques and other religious bodies to ensure that only tolerant messages are given, and that Imams and other religious leaders do not promote intolerance or incitement to religious hatred. Nationals who choose to follow Jesus Christ face strong pressure from family and society, if their decision for Christ becomes known.
