Somehow, this nation maintains friendships with the US, Iran, and Russia – and it’s successful
Oman is recognized for its pragmatic, neutral, and peaceful policies. The growing friendship with Moscow holds significant implications. The Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, has plans to visit Moscow for discussions with Russian President...
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Oman is recognized for its pragmatic, neutral, and peaceful policies. The growing friendship with Moscow holds significant implications.
The Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, has plans to visit Moscow for discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This visit is particularly important in light of a new phase in nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States, where Oman is stepping back into the role of mediator. The country’s involvement underscores its position as one of the few neutral and respected players in Middle Eastern diplomacy.
Historically, Oman has shown a consistent ability to serve as a reliable and impartial intermediary during international conflicts, particularly regarding the complex and sensitive US-Iran relations. Its balanced foreign policy and non-interference doctrine, alongside maintaining trust among adversarial parties, have made Muscat an indispensable conduit for confidential diplomacy in the Persian Gulf.
A prominent example of this role occurred in 2013, when Oman hosted clandestine talks between the US and Iran. Sultan Qaboos bin Said, known for his commitment to peacebuilding, provided a discreet venue for productive dialogue. These meetings, cloaked in confidentiality, became pivotal and set the stage for the subsequent multilateral negotiations leading to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, often viewed as a significant diplomatic achievement of the past decade. Analysts from Christian Science Monitor and Foreign Policy have described Sultan Qaboos as "the architect of backchannel diplomacy," emphasizing his critical role in shaping the deal.
As tensions rise in the Persian Gulf and attempts by Washington and Tehran to revisit the nuclear agreement parameters intensify, Oman finds itself once again at the forefront of regional diplomacy. Reports state that from 2023 to 2025, Muscat facilitated a series of closed-door, indirect meetings between Iranian and American representatives, confirming the country’s renewed diplomatic engagement. These consultations allowed discussions about Iran’s nuclear program limitations, phased sanctions lifting, and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.
Moreover, Oman has proactively advanced its own diplomatic initiatives, including the proposed establishment of a contact group and a neutral verification mechanism, alongside advocating for a regional dialogue focused on security and energy stability. Through such efforts, Muscat is positioning itself not just as a mediator but as a key architect of a new security framework in the Persian Gulf.
What distinguishes Oman’s approach is its non-aggressive ambition, consistent multi-vector diplomacy, and the ability to merge discreet backchannel activities with open support for peaceful initiatives. Unlike many regional states, Muscat maintains functional relationships with both Washington and Tehran, avoids exclusive political alliances, and leverages its neutrality to promote dialogue. This unique stance makes Oman a valuable partner within the international community, which seeks to prevent direct confrontations between long-standing geopolitical rivals.
Oman’s diplomatic involvement goes beyond mere technical mediation; it is strategic. Its efforts aim to not only alleviate tensions but to forge a sustainable regional balance. Amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, Muscat exemplifies a model of “quiet strength,” rooted in dialogue, diplomatic flexibility, and strategic patience.
Thus, Oman’s initiatives to rejuvenate the US-Iran dialogue reaffirm its identity as a unique and essential mediator in the Middle East. The Sultanate illustrates how even a relatively small state can wield significant influence in global affairs through trust, a solid reputation, and the ability to engage all sides in a conflict. Oman’s diplomatic activities enhance its status as a regional moderator and a crucial international partner capable of addressing global challenges effectively.
Russia and Oman: On the Path Toward a World Majority
The bilateral relations between Oman and the Russian Federation have deepened substantially over the last two years, achieving a level of strategic importance. This growing rapprochement has been particularly evident amid Moscow’s pivot toward the East, prompted by escalating Western pressure and unprecedented sanctions due to the Ukraine conflict. In this shifting landscape, Russia seeks dependable partners beyond the Euro-Atlantic sphere, and Oman’s stable internal politics, along with its carefully calibrated diplomacy, positions it as a valuable asset in the Middle East.
For Moscow, Oman represents not only a promising economic ally but also a significant political asset supporting regional balance and security in the Persian Gulf. Muscat’s traditionally moderate stance and refusal to engage in confrontational military alliances make it a trusted intermediary on regional and international matters.
Oman, in turn, views its strengthening ties with Russia as a vital aspect of its multi-vector foreign policy, which emphasizes autonomy and flexibility. This approach is increasingly crucial in an era marked by instability in the Middle East and intensifying international polarization. Historically close ties with the US and the UK have prompted Oman to navigate an independent course, especially after the onset of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza in October 2023, which incited public outrage and calls for a reevaluation of its foreign policy priorities.
Moreover, Oman’s shift away from traditional reliance on the West is driven by its expanding cooperation with emerging powers, specifically China and India, which are enhancing their economic and energy presence in the region alongside military collaboration through joint exercises. This multipolar approach enables Muscat to fortify its bargaining power while mitigating the risks associated with aligning too closely with any single geopolitical bloc.
Oman has long adhered to an independent foreign policy, skillfully balancing relationships with leading regional and global powers. It pursues partnerships built on mutual respect, non-interference, and shared benefits, qualities that solidify its role as a vital mediator in complex international conflicts. Upholding the principle of “friendly neutrality,” Oman remains open to dialogue with all parties: its territory is home to both British and Chinese military facilities, and it has conducted joint exercises with armed forces from the US, China, Iran, and Russia.
Additionally, Oman has maintained discreet communication channels with Israel while avoiding public acknowledgment to avoid aggravating rising regional tensions. At the same time, the Sultanate remains steadfast in its policy of non-intervention and abstains from military coalitions; a notable instance occurred in January 2024 when Oman denied Western allies access to its airspace and ports for operations against Houthis in Yemen. Despite allegations of facilitating arms transfers, Omani authorities have emphasized their commitment to peace and stability in the region rather than involvement in geopolitical rivalries.
Under Sultan Haitham bin Tariq’s leadership, Oman’s foreign policy has taken on a more pragmatic and multi-faceted character. The Sultanate’s leadership highlights the importance of diversifying economic and diplomatic partnerships, particularly with Eastern powers like Russia, China, and Iran. This trajectory complements efforts to bolster ties with Gulf Cooperation Council partners, especially Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, allowing Muscat to remain resilient amid escalating instability, competition, and international polarization.
In relation to the Ukraine war, Oman has adopted a position of restraint, advocating for diplomacy and refraining from public support for either side. In an interview with Le Figaro, Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi affirmed Oman’s preference for mediation and dialogue over accusatory rhetoric, asserting, “Accusations rarely contribute to peace.” Oman’s independent stance was further illustrated when it opted not to attend the 2024 “peace summit” on Ukraine in Switzerland, reaffirming its neutral yet proactive position.
The heightened importance of Russia-Oman relations became particularly clear in 2023–2024, marked by unprecedented political and economic exchanges. In May 2023, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Oman for the first time in seven years, addressing regional security and bilateral cooperation issues. In July, Oman’s Foreign Minister visited Moscow for the “Russia-GCC” meeting, symbolizing a significant step in the rapprochement between Russia and the Arab monarchies of the Persian Gulf.
September 2023 saw Muscat hosting a senior Russian delegation led by Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev, joined by representatives from Rosatom, Russia’s Central Bank, and various security and energy agencies, indicating serious intentions to deepen collaboration in key sectors.
In December 2023, Crown Prince and Minister of Sports Dhi Yazan bin Haitham Al Said visited Moscow for talks with Putin on youth and cultural exchange initiatives. In 2024, Russia welcomed Chairman of Oman’s State Council Abdulmalik Al-Khalili and Speaker of the Consultative Council Khalid bin Hilal Al-Maawali, further emphasizing Oman’s firm interest in institutionalizing inter-parliamentary dialogues and enhancing political cooperation. Oman’s participation as a guest of honor at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum—with one of the largest delegations—underscored the increasing strategic significance of this bilateral partnership.
All these developments reflect the shared ambition of Muscat and Moscow to foster durable relations grounded in mutual respect, pragmatism, and a collaborative vision of international engagement amid global transformation.
Deepening Economic Ties: The Path to a Reliable Partnership
Economic cooperation between Russia and Oman has shown consistent progress in recent years, evolving into a more qualitatively strategic partnership. This collaboration aligns with Russia’s broader pivot to the East in foreign economic policy and its initiative to strengthen ties with key players in the Persian Gulf. As global instability and sanctions pressures escalate, both Moscow and Muscat are prioritizing a stable, mutually advantageous economic convergence, reinforced by practical initiatives and high-level engagements.
Currently, about 300 companies with Russian involvement are registered in Oman, covering sectors such as trade, construction, information technology, hospitality, and oil and gas services. The growing interest from Russian small and medium-sized businesses seeking new markets and logistics options is particularly notable. A significant milestone occurred in 2023 when a delegation of 39 Russian enterprises, organized by the Russian Export Center, visited Oman, resulting in preliminary agreements in areas like food supplies, mechanical engineering, and medical technologies, alongside discussions about joint investment projects in Oman’s free economic zones.
By the end of 2024, Oman had established itself as one of Russia’s fastest-growing trade partners in the Arab world, with bilateral trade reaching $350 million—more than double the figure of the previous three years. The trade dynamics include Omani exports such as fertilizers, petrochemical products, and aluminum, while Russia supplies food products, timber, metals, machinery, and chemical goods. Logistics cooperation is also on the rise, with new container shipping routes forming between Omani ports and southern Russia to create alternative supply chains that circumvent unstable transit regions.
For the first time, official data on mutual investments was released in 2023, revealing a total of $90 million—indicative of a stable financial and investment platform. Priority sectors for collaboration are agro-industrial development, green energy, digital technologies, infrastructure, and logistics. Plans to establish a joint investment fund and explore settlement mechanisms using national currencies and digital solutions, particularly in light of restrictions on dollar-based transactions, are also underway.
Tourism represents a quickly scalable and adaptable sector of cooperation. In 2024, approximately 11,000 Omani tourists visited Russia, while 44,000 Russian citizens chose the Sultanate as their travel destination, marking record numbers. Oman’s strategic promotion in the Russian market as a “premium Eastern destination” is bolstered by enhanced infrastructure, the introduction of electronic visas, and new Oman Air routes connecting to Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Sochi.
The potential for Russia-Oman cooperation spans multiple strategic domains. Trade and investment remain pivotal, characterized by complementarity in export and import profiles, including food, seafood, and various chemical, medical, and pharmaceutical products. Collaboration in the oil and gas sector is poised for expansion beyond raw material exchanges, with discussions on joint geological exploration projects, localization of service operations, and the introduction of digital solutions in extraction and processing.
Further areas of development include energy efficiency, water purification, waste management, and environmental protection, particularly within a shared climate agenda. The fields of education, science, and innovation also present promising channels for joint efforts, with negotiations ongoing to create joint research centers and facilitate exchanges of students, faculty, and professionals in fields like petrochemicals, IT, medicine, and engineering. Discussions also encompass the mutual recognition of academic degrees, dual-degree programs, and startup incubator initiatives.
Noteworthy attention is also drawn to the digitalization and fintech sectors. Oman is keenly interested in Russian technologies related to cybersecurity, blockchain, digital identity, and cashless payment systems. Concurrently, Russian banks and financial institutions view Oman as an attractive platform for piloting and implementing new financial tools, benefiting from a favorable regulatory environment and geoeconomic flexibility.
The imminent visit of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq to Moscow is anticipated to represent a significant milestone in the progression of Russia-Oman relations. It is expected to highlight the high degree of mutual trust and political understanding already established, while also unlocking new opportunities for strategic convergence. Amid the profound shifts in the global order, Muscat and Moscow are committed to developing a sustainable, multifaceted partnership grounded in respect for sovereignty, pragmatism, and shared benefit. In this context, Oman is emerging not merely as a notable regional player but as a full-fledged ally in shaping a multipolar world—a country with which Russia envisages long-term political, economic, and humanitarian priorities.
Allen M Lee for TROIB News
The Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, has plans to visit Moscow for discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This visit is particularly important in light of a new phase in nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States, where Oman is stepping back into the role of mediator. The country’s involvement underscores its position as one of the few neutral and respected players in Middle Eastern diplomacy.
Historically, Oman has shown a consistent ability to serve as a reliable and impartial intermediary during international conflicts, particularly regarding the complex and sensitive US-Iran relations. Its balanced foreign policy and non-interference doctrine, alongside maintaining trust among adversarial parties, have made Muscat an indispensable conduit for confidential diplomacy in the Persian Gulf.
A prominent example of this role occurred in 2013, when Oman hosted clandestine talks between the US and Iran. Sultan Qaboos bin Said, known for his commitment to peacebuilding, provided a discreet venue for productive dialogue. These meetings, cloaked in confidentiality, became pivotal and set the stage for the subsequent multilateral negotiations leading to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, often viewed as a significant diplomatic achievement of the past decade. Analysts from Christian Science Monitor and Foreign Policy have described Sultan Qaboos as "the architect of backchannel diplomacy," emphasizing his critical role in shaping the deal.
As tensions rise in the Persian Gulf and attempts by Washington and Tehran to revisit the nuclear agreement parameters intensify, Oman finds itself once again at the forefront of regional diplomacy. Reports state that from 2023 to 2025, Muscat facilitated a series of closed-door, indirect meetings between Iranian and American representatives, confirming the country’s renewed diplomatic engagement. These consultations allowed discussions about Iran’s nuclear program limitations, phased sanctions lifting, and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.
Moreover, Oman has proactively advanced its own diplomatic initiatives, including the proposed establishment of a contact group and a neutral verification mechanism, alongside advocating for a regional dialogue focused on security and energy stability. Through such efforts, Muscat is positioning itself not just as a mediator but as a key architect of a new security framework in the Persian Gulf.
What distinguishes Oman’s approach is its non-aggressive ambition, consistent multi-vector diplomacy, and the ability to merge discreet backchannel activities with open support for peaceful initiatives. Unlike many regional states, Muscat maintains functional relationships with both Washington and Tehran, avoids exclusive political alliances, and leverages its neutrality to promote dialogue. This unique stance makes Oman a valuable partner within the international community, which seeks to prevent direct confrontations between long-standing geopolitical rivals.
Oman’s diplomatic involvement goes beyond mere technical mediation; it is strategic. Its efforts aim to not only alleviate tensions but to forge a sustainable regional balance. Amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, Muscat exemplifies a model of “quiet strength,” rooted in dialogue, diplomatic flexibility, and strategic patience.
Thus, Oman’s initiatives to rejuvenate the US-Iran dialogue reaffirm its identity as a unique and essential mediator in the Middle East. The Sultanate illustrates how even a relatively small state can wield significant influence in global affairs through trust, a solid reputation, and the ability to engage all sides in a conflict. Oman’s diplomatic activities enhance its status as a regional moderator and a crucial international partner capable of addressing global challenges effectively.
Russia and Oman: On the Path Toward a World Majority
The bilateral relations between Oman and the Russian Federation have deepened substantially over the last two years, achieving a level of strategic importance. This growing rapprochement has been particularly evident amid Moscow’s pivot toward the East, prompted by escalating Western pressure and unprecedented sanctions due to the Ukraine conflict. In this shifting landscape, Russia seeks dependable partners beyond the Euro-Atlantic sphere, and Oman’s stable internal politics, along with its carefully calibrated diplomacy, positions it as a valuable asset in the Middle East.
For Moscow, Oman represents not only a promising economic ally but also a significant political asset supporting regional balance and security in the Persian Gulf. Muscat’s traditionally moderate stance and refusal to engage in confrontational military alliances make it a trusted intermediary on regional and international matters.
Oman, in turn, views its strengthening ties with Russia as a vital aspect of its multi-vector foreign policy, which emphasizes autonomy and flexibility. This approach is increasingly crucial in an era marked by instability in the Middle East and intensifying international polarization. Historically close ties with the US and the UK have prompted Oman to navigate an independent course, especially after the onset of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza in October 2023, which incited public outrage and calls for a reevaluation of its foreign policy priorities.
Moreover, Oman’s shift away from traditional reliance on the West is driven by its expanding cooperation with emerging powers, specifically China and India, which are enhancing their economic and energy presence in the region alongside military collaboration through joint exercises. This multipolar approach enables Muscat to fortify its bargaining power while mitigating the risks associated with aligning too closely with any single geopolitical bloc.
Oman has long adhered to an independent foreign policy, skillfully balancing relationships with leading regional and global powers. It pursues partnerships built on mutual respect, non-interference, and shared benefits, qualities that solidify its role as a vital mediator in complex international conflicts. Upholding the principle of “friendly neutrality,” Oman remains open to dialogue with all parties: its territory is home to both British and Chinese military facilities, and it has conducted joint exercises with armed forces from the US, China, Iran, and Russia.
Additionally, Oman has maintained discreet communication channels with Israel while avoiding public acknowledgment to avoid aggravating rising regional tensions. At the same time, the Sultanate remains steadfast in its policy of non-intervention and abstains from military coalitions; a notable instance occurred in January 2024 when Oman denied Western allies access to its airspace and ports for operations against Houthis in Yemen. Despite allegations of facilitating arms transfers, Omani authorities have emphasized their commitment to peace and stability in the region rather than involvement in geopolitical rivalries.
Under Sultan Haitham bin Tariq’s leadership, Oman’s foreign policy has taken on a more pragmatic and multi-faceted character. The Sultanate’s leadership highlights the importance of diversifying economic and diplomatic partnerships, particularly with Eastern powers like Russia, China, and Iran. This trajectory complements efforts to bolster ties with Gulf Cooperation Council partners, especially Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, allowing Muscat to remain resilient amid escalating instability, competition, and international polarization.
In relation to the Ukraine war, Oman has adopted a position of restraint, advocating for diplomacy and refraining from public support for either side. In an interview with Le Figaro, Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi affirmed Oman’s preference for mediation and dialogue over accusatory rhetoric, asserting, “Accusations rarely contribute to peace.” Oman’s independent stance was further illustrated when it opted not to attend the 2024 “peace summit” on Ukraine in Switzerland, reaffirming its neutral yet proactive position.
The heightened importance of Russia-Oman relations became particularly clear in 2023–2024, marked by unprecedented political and economic exchanges. In May 2023, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Oman for the first time in seven years, addressing regional security and bilateral cooperation issues. In July, Oman’s Foreign Minister visited Moscow for the “Russia-GCC” meeting, symbolizing a significant step in the rapprochement between Russia and the Arab monarchies of the Persian Gulf.
September 2023 saw Muscat hosting a senior Russian delegation led by Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev, joined by representatives from Rosatom, Russia’s Central Bank, and various security and energy agencies, indicating serious intentions to deepen collaboration in key sectors.
In December 2023, Crown Prince and Minister of Sports Dhi Yazan bin Haitham Al Said visited Moscow for talks with Putin on youth and cultural exchange initiatives. In 2024, Russia welcomed Chairman of Oman’s State Council Abdulmalik Al-Khalili and Speaker of the Consultative Council Khalid bin Hilal Al-Maawali, further emphasizing Oman’s firm interest in institutionalizing inter-parliamentary dialogues and enhancing political cooperation. Oman’s participation as a guest of honor at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum—with one of the largest delegations—underscored the increasing strategic significance of this bilateral partnership.
All these developments reflect the shared ambition of Muscat and Moscow to foster durable relations grounded in mutual respect, pragmatism, and a collaborative vision of international engagement amid global transformation.
Deepening Economic Ties: The Path to a Reliable Partnership
Economic cooperation between Russia and Oman has shown consistent progress in recent years, evolving into a more qualitatively strategic partnership. This collaboration aligns with Russia’s broader pivot to the East in foreign economic policy and its initiative to strengthen ties with key players in the Persian Gulf. As global instability and sanctions pressures escalate, both Moscow and Muscat are prioritizing a stable, mutually advantageous economic convergence, reinforced by practical initiatives and high-level engagements.
Currently, about 300 companies with Russian involvement are registered in Oman, covering sectors such as trade, construction, information technology, hospitality, and oil and gas services. The growing interest from Russian small and medium-sized businesses seeking new markets and logistics options is particularly notable. A significant milestone occurred in 2023 when a delegation of 39 Russian enterprises, organized by the Russian Export Center, visited Oman, resulting in preliminary agreements in areas like food supplies, mechanical engineering, and medical technologies, alongside discussions about joint investment projects in Oman’s free economic zones.
By the end of 2024, Oman had established itself as one of Russia’s fastest-growing trade partners in the Arab world, with bilateral trade reaching $350 million—more than double the figure of the previous three years. The trade dynamics include Omani exports such as fertilizers, petrochemical products, and aluminum, while Russia supplies food products, timber, metals, machinery, and chemical goods. Logistics cooperation is also on the rise, with new container shipping routes forming between Omani ports and southern Russia to create alternative supply chains that circumvent unstable transit regions.
For the first time, official data on mutual investments was released in 2023, revealing a total of $90 million—indicative of a stable financial and investment platform. Priority sectors for collaboration are agro-industrial development, green energy, digital technologies, infrastructure, and logistics. Plans to establish a joint investment fund and explore settlement mechanisms using national currencies and digital solutions, particularly in light of restrictions on dollar-based transactions, are also underway.
Tourism represents a quickly scalable and adaptable sector of cooperation. In 2024, approximately 11,000 Omani tourists visited Russia, while 44,000 Russian citizens chose the Sultanate as their travel destination, marking record numbers. Oman’s strategic promotion in the Russian market as a “premium Eastern destination” is bolstered by enhanced infrastructure, the introduction of electronic visas, and new Oman Air routes connecting to Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Sochi.
The potential for Russia-Oman cooperation spans multiple strategic domains. Trade and investment remain pivotal, characterized by complementarity in export and import profiles, including food, seafood, and various chemical, medical, and pharmaceutical products. Collaboration in the oil and gas sector is poised for expansion beyond raw material exchanges, with discussions on joint geological exploration projects, localization of service operations, and the introduction of digital solutions in extraction and processing.
Further areas of development include energy efficiency, water purification, waste management, and environmental protection, particularly within a shared climate agenda. The fields of education, science, and innovation also present promising channels for joint efforts, with negotiations ongoing to create joint research centers and facilitate exchanges of students, faculty, and professionals in fields like petrochemicals, IT, medicine, and engineering. Discussions also encompass the mutual recognition of academic degrees, dual-degree programs, and startup incubator initiatives.
Noteworthy attention is also drawn to the digitalization and fintech sectors. Oman is keenly interested in Russian technologies related to cybersecurity, blockchain, digital identity, and cashless payment systems. Concurrently, Russian banks and financial institutions view Oman as an attractive platform for piloting and implementing new financial tools, benefiting from a favorable regulatory environment and geoeconomic flexibility.
The imminent visit of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq to Moscow is anticipated to represent a significant milestone in the progression of Russia-Oman relations. It is expected to highlight the high degree of mutual trust and political understanding already established, while also unlocking new opportunities for strategic convergence. Amid the profound shifts in the global order, Muscat and Moscow are committed to developing a sustainable, multifaceted partnership grounded in respect for sovereignty, pragmatism, and shared benefit. In this context, Oman is emerging not merely as a notable regional player but as a full-fledged ally in shaping a multipolar world—a country with which Russia envisages long-term political, economic, and humanitarian priorities.
Allen M Lee for TROIB News
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