GCC’s renewable energy push pays off with Qatar, UAE taking lead Several Gulf states rank relatively high on the World Economic Forum (WEF) Energy Transition Index, reflecting their efforts to transition toward renewable energy and reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. Saudi Arabia
Analysis What’s behind Islamic State’s first attack in Oman? ISIS has not affected Oman as much as it has other Gulf countries, in part due to the sultanate’s strong security and lack of radicalism, according to one expert. By Adam Lucente In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change
Interview Oman to phase out polluting industries 'too difficult to decarbonize' Omani Minister of Energy and Minerals Salim Al Aufi told Al-Monitor that if his government finds an industry too difficult or costly to decarbonize, there will be discussions taking place about phasing the sector out all together. With Salim Al Aufi Oman Minister of Energy and Minerals
Oman moves ahead with overdue reforms Oman's leadership pushes ahead with reforms, cornered by the COVID-19 crisis and long-standing weaknesses in the local economy. Activists call for a constitutional monarchy. Oman
Oman praises Israel-Morocco relations Oman has yet to recognize Israel officially, despite speculation that the sultanate would do so. Oman
Oman to issue tourist visas after 8-month suspension Travelers whose trips are organized through hotels or tourism companies can apply for visas. Oman
Oman opens land borders for citizens, residents The Gulf state's land borders had remained shut to international travel since March. Oman
Mosques in Oman to reopen for socially distant daily prayers Amid a declining COVID-19 infection rate, mosques will reopen to a limited number of worshippers beginning Sunday; Friday prayers still will not be allowed. Oman
Oman’s reform plans worry activists Large budget deficits have forced Oman to accelerate the pace of economic reforms, which some activists fear are not addressing restrictions on political expression. Oman
Oman returns to nighttime curfew as COVID-19 cases climb Beginning Sunday, a curfew will run from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Oct. 24. Oman
Intel: Oman ambassador returns to Syria With much of Syria now under Syrian President Basher al-Assad's control, some Arab states are slowly considering the reopening of foreign missions in Damascus. Gulf
Oman's coronavirus cases pass 100,000 The Gulf state opened a field hospital Monday to deal with the influx of COVID-19 infections. Oman
Emirates resumes flights to Muscat The Dubai-based airline is getting closer to resuming its pre-pandemic network, despite a new virus outbreak in the United Arab Emirates. United Arab Emirates
Pompeo makes final stop in Oman amid Israel deal push Oman has been floated as a possible next country to normalize ties with Israel. United Arab Emirates
As Pompeo pushes for Israel deal, Bahrain reaffirms support for two-state solution Pompeo is trying to persuade Bahrain and other countries in the region to join the United Arab Emirates in recognizing Israel. United Arab Emirates
