Oman History and Culture

In the Bronze Age, Oman was known to the Sumerians as Magan, a source of copper shipped across the Gulf. The beehive tombs of Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ayn, about five thousand years old, stand on ridges in the interior, a World Heritage Site. In Dhofar, frankincense from Boswellia trees was traded through ports such as Sumhuram and Al Baleed to Egypt, Rome and beyond.

Oman embraced Islam in the 7th century, early and peacefully. Its sailors were famed across the Indian Ocean, and Sohar is often linked to the legend of Sinbad. The Nabhani and Yarubi dynasties built great forts and castles such as Bahla, Nizwa and Jabrin, and the falaj irrigation systems turned mountain valleys into oases.

The Al Said dynasty has ruled since the mid-18th century, and at its height the sultanate stretched to Zanzibar and the Swahili coast. Modern Oman's renaissance began in 1970, bringing roads, schools and hospitals while carefully preserving heritage. Today Oman Vision 2040 focuses on tourism, logistics and green energy. Read about the royal family of Oman, the incense route and Oman Vision 2040.

Oman's skyline is its forts: more than five hundred castles, towers and watchtowers guard the mountains and coast. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, with one of the world's largest hand-woven carpets and a vast chandelier, is a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture. The Royal Opera House Muscat stages opera, ballet and concerts from around the world.

The khanjar, the curved silver dagger worn at the waist on formal occasions and featured on the national emblem, is a proud symbol of Omani craftsmanship and identity. Nizwa's silversmiths and potters, Bahla's clay workshops and the dhow builders of Sur keep ancient skills alive. Perfume is an art too: Omani frankincense and the house of Amouage are known worldwide. See perfume and oud.

Oman's first official envoy to the United States arrived in New York in 1840 aboard the ship Sultanah. The Musandam fjords are often called the Norway of Arabia. In summer, Salalah turns green under the khareef monsoon. Plan your trip with our Oman luxury travel guide, explore Muscat and visit Salalah for frankincense.