ABSTRACT
Fifteen years of economic development and a young, popular ruler in Qaboos b. Sa'id portend a bright future for Oman, or so it would appear on the surface. However, the sultanate does face a number of possible difficulties that could disrupt its domestic stability or involve it in international conflict. Internationally, the improved relations with South Yemen and the Soviet Union serve to alleviate tensions on Oman's southern border but also draw greater attention to the long-standing border disputes with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) neighbors Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The money or contracts get spread widely, so almost everyone benefits. Unfortunately, several of Qaboo's advisers, especially those involved in the palace, development, and finance areas, have exceeded even Middle Eastern notions of corruption. Another issue to be faced by Oman in the future is the country's ethnic diversity. Oman is a mosaic of religious and ethnic minorities that tend to be concentrated in specific regions of the country.
