1143 | 613 | The Multiple Geographies of the Sultanate of Oman: a Strategic Approach toward Economic Diversification in the Persian Gulf.

This abstract is concerning a research project on the current socio-political and economic changes that the Gulf Region is dealing with._x000D_
The study is focusing on the recent challenges of Sultanate of Oman which is forming the organization called “Gulf Cooperation Council” (GCC). The multiple geographies and dynamic environments shaping geographically the Sultanate are orienting politically the new process of economic growth and development of the Country. It is crucial to emphasize at this stage that the author spent almost seven years working in the Region as an academician and consultant, so the data collected are the results both from an academic approach and practical point of view. This study aims to understand the changes of the Sultanate embedded in its Region through two main angles interconnected:_x000D_
1)By identifying the role of the Sultanate in the emerging geopolitical context of the Gulf, and examine how the political stability could contribute to re-design a new political vision toward the future._x000D_
2)By analyzing the current geographical and economic frameworks of the Sultanate and recognize which forces are capable to shape the new socio-economic trends of Oman toward a process of economic diversification that, at different levels, is occurring in all the Gulf Countries (GCC)._x000D_
The main research purpose of this study is to understand the intersections and the links between political leadership and economic changes in the Sultanate of Oman and their impacts on the economic growth and diversification of their economic sectors in the Persian Gulf and GCC context. This new phase of development is supported by new strategic industries like tourism, travel, and hospitality. Therefore, a particular emphasis will be given to the tourism sector as a driver-pivot for better understanding these multiple geographies of Oman, a country in transition from an oil-economy dependance to a more sustainable future._x000D_
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Angelo Battaglia
Westminster International University of Tashkent (WIUT)

ID Abstract: 613