The Sultanate of Oman is a land of scenic plains, wadis, mountains, and golden deserts that occupies a strategic location in the Gulf, and extends from the arid estuaries of Musandam in the North, to the lush greenery of Dhofar in the South. Situated in the South-East of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman boasts of a coastline that runs from the Arabian Sea to the entrance of the Indian Ocean where it overlooks the Strait of Hormuz. Oman shares its borders with the Republic of Yemen, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

The climate of Muscat is predominantly hot with long, arid summers and warm winters, while the Dhofar region enjoys mild weather all year round. The ideal time to visit Oman is between October and April when temperatures range from 25?C to 35?C during the day, to 17?C to 19?C in the evenings.

The Sultanate of Oman is an Islamic country and a certain dress code should be observed with sensitivity. Men should wear long trousers and shirts in public places, while women should have their shoulders and knees covered. Loose cotton garments are ideal throughout the year, although a light jacket/sweater or a shawl may be needed for cooler evenings. Tourist photography is allowed in all places, however taking pictures of the local people is not permitted.

All information pertaining to investments, bonds, and mutual funds in Oman and the stock exchange scene of the country can be accessed on the Muscat Securities Market website at www.msm.gov.om.

The Central Bank of Oman is responsible for maintaining the internal and external value of the national currency (Omani Rial, denoted as OMR or Rial). It is also the single integrated regulator of Oman’s financial services industry. Information about daily foreign exchange rates and tender deposit results can be collected on www.cbo-oman.org.

There are a number of Arabic and English dailies in the Sultanate, which can be acquired at shopping stores, bookstands, malls, and the airport, or through subscription. For people on the go, all dailies have their e-newspapers online, or apps for smartphones.