Despite vast open spaces and high solar resources, Oman is one of a handful of countries to still source almost all of its energy from fossil fuels, specifically the oil and natural gas right beneath its feet.

Oman produces one million barrels of crude oil per day (out of known reserves of 5.4 billion barrels) and 30 billion cubic metres of natural gas (out of a known 650 billion). Exports of these can generate 85 per cent of government revenue.

Such profitable domestic production has enabled Oman to offer generous fuel subsidies to inhabitants, although these have been cut back in recent years as the government tries to balance the books.