Other known mineral resources include copper, asbestos, and marble. The overall population density was only about 8 people per sq. The population is overwhelmingly Arab, but significant minorities of Indians, Pakistanis, and East Africans are found in the principal ports. Arabic is the official language. Sultan Qabus University, near Masqat, opened in 1986.
Agriculture is dominated by the cultivation of export crops, primarily dates and limes.
Some grains and vegetables are grown for local consumption, but most food must be imported. In the late 1980s petroleum production totaled about 212.5 million barrels annually. A road-building program was undertaken in the 1970s and '80s, and most settlements are linked by a network of graded roads. Oman is ruled by a sultan, who is advised by an appointed cabinet. The country has no constitution, legislature, or political parties.