As in other sectors of Omani society, the education system was radically altered after the accession of Sultan Qabus ibn Said. Prior to 1970, there were only three primary schools in the sultanate--in Muscat, Matrah, and Salalah. These were reserved for around 900 boys personally selected by the sultan from among many applicants. Additionally, in Muscat there was a religious institute with an enrollment of fifty boys, three private schools for Hyderabadis (Indians), and one United States missionary school serving fifty foreign girls. Sultan Qabus ibn Said initiated a shift in the government's policies and priorities from neglect to development of the school system, increasing the public's access to general education.

Education is free for Omani citizens through the university level. In 1970 only 3% of all elementary school-age children were in school. By 1997 this figure was up to 76%, and enrollment in secondary schools was 67%. Sultan Qaboos University in Ruwi was opened in 1986 and now has more than 4,000 students. Oman also has eight teacher-training colleges, nine vocational institutes, five technical institutes, and eight Islamic colleges. About 40% of the population is literate.