Telecommunications operators in Muscat, Oman, and women crossing the road with children. UAE, 1974

The discovery of oil 200 miles inland led to significant technological and economic changes. New technologies were introduced to transport and manage the oil flow remotely. This development brought wealth and rapid changes to the country, affecting the traditional way of life and causing social adjustments.

What was the immediate consequence of discovering oil 200 miles inland?

• The oil was left untapped.

• A new way of life had to be imported.

• The local economy collapsed.

• The country became a tourist destination.

How is the oil flow from the interior to the coast managed today?

• With the help of local tribes.

• By traditional methods.

• By using remote control and telecommunications.

• Through manual labor.

Who controls the rate at which oil is drawn from the wells?

• The government officials.

• A team of engineers on-site.

• Two men in a room just outside Muscat.

• An automated system with no human intervention.

What is one of the effects of the steady flow of oil wealth?

• It has led to environmental degradation.

• It has resulted in a cultural renaissance.

• It has caused a reservoir of new wealth to build up.

• It has led to a decrease in population.

What challenge do ordinary citizens face due to the rapid changes?

• They are bewildered by the speed of change.

• They are unable to find jobs.

• They are experiencing a decline in living standards.

• They are moving to other countries.