I have not operated in the circles of SultanQ and his mates, but I spent way too much time at the end of the 90's and early 00's in the Middle East - mostly Kuwait, Saudi and Bahrain. And a bit of Oman.
The only country in that area that I would ever visit again is Oman.
The Omani's are fantastic people, with a most refreshing approach to life - and foreigners.
I do not know if this is thanks to SultanQ, but I was amazed by the mature and rational attitude of folk in remote villages way distant from tourist, diplomatic or military influence.
A wonderful country, with wonderful people.