198,000 Christians live in Oman, making up just over 4% of the total population of 4.8 million. Not surprisingly, most of them are migrant workers.
Oman is an absolute monarchy. The government expects obedience from its citizens – they are kept under strict surveillance. Leaving Islam is seen as a betrayal to the tribe and family. Believers from Muslim backgrounds experience unwavering pressure to return to Islam.
The means are non-violent but effective: believers can lose family, homes and jobs. In this highly conservative society, it is especially difficult for Muslim women to choose to follow Christ. Sharing faith with Muslims is against the law. It is illegal for Christians to share their faith with Muslims.