According to ALLCITYCODES.COM, Oman is divided into 11 governorates, each of which has its own distinct area code. The area codes range from 2 to 12 and cover all of the country’s governorates. For example, Muscat is assigned the area code 2 and Dhofar is assigned the area code 8. The Omani government is responsible for assigning and maintaining all area codes for the country. All landline numbers in Oman are 8 digits long, with the first two digits representing the governorate’s respective area code. Mobile phone numbers in Oman are 11 digits long, with the first four digits representing the service provider’s respective network code. In addition to assigning landline and mobile phone numbers, Omani government also assigns special three-digit codes for various services such as emergency services, public utilities, government agencies, etc. For example, 112 is reserved for emergency services while 811 is reserved for public utilities such as electricity and water supply companies. Similarly, 901 is used by government agencies while 801 is used by non-governmental organizations (NGOs). These special codes can be used nationwide regardless of a person’s location or governorate within Oman. Oman is a monarchy with the Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, as its head of state. The country is an absolute monarchy and the Sultan holds ultimate power over all political decisions. The basic political structure is based on an unwritten constitution that has been in effect since 1970. The government is the supreme legislative body and consists of the Council of Ministers, which is appointed by the Sultan. The Council of Ministers includes ministers from different departments such as finance, foreign affairs, health, education, and defense. There are also two consultative bodies that provide advice to the Sultan: the Majlis al-Shura (Consultative Council) and Majlis al-Dawla (State Consultative Council). Both councils are appointed by the Sultan and are responsible for approving legislation proposed by the government. PARADISDACHAT: Features public policy of Oman.
