Oman is a country located in the Middle East, and is officially known as the SULTANATE of Oman. It is a monarchy, ruled by the Sultan of Oman, and is an absolute monarchy. The term 'SULTANATE' refers to the government of Oman, and is a nine-letter word. The term 'EMIRATE' is also used to refer to Oman, and is a seven-letter word. Both terms are used to describe the country's political system, with the SULTANATE being the more formal term.