Oman, a Spectacular Country in the Arabian Peninsula

Where is Oman Located?

Oman lies in the east of the Arabian Peninsula. The capital of this country is Muscat and its political system is based on the monarchy.

This country has two exclaves. One of them is Musandam Peninsula, located in the south of Hurmuz Straight. The other one, Madha, is surrounded by the United Arab Emirates.

This Arabian country is neighboring 4 important countries of the region. The eastern and northern boarders are surrounded by Oman Sea and Arab Sea. It is bordered by the UAE and Saudi Arabia in west, and Yemen in the south. This country also shares a marine border with Iran.

With an area of 500,000 m2, this country is home to 4,000,000 people, a majority of which are Muslims. The largest city of the country is Muscat, the capital of Oman, which is considered as a modern city.

 

The History of Oman

Oman is the oldest and the most historic Arabian Country of the region. This country, dating back to 100,000 years ago, has been occupied by the Arab, Portuguese and English frequently.

The archeological excavations reveal that this country had trade relations with foreign lands. In addition, the remains of an excavated copper mine were discovered in this region. These discoveries prove that copper, which is the main economic resource at present, was also a commercial good in the long past. Export of frankincense was also the main sources of trade in this country in ancient times.
Oman was under the domination of Iranian troops in the 6th century BC. It is narrated that Falaj Irrigation System of Oman was constructed with an inspiration from Qanat, an Iranian innovation. This globally renowned irrigation system has played an important role in the life of people and resulted in developing agriculture in this region.

The country has gone through many political ups and downs throughout history. The beginning of its independent monarchy coincided with the 17th century. In the 19th century, it was at a high level of authority and power. But in the 20th century, it came under British influence and gradually lost its political power. It is an independent country with an absolute monarchy at present.

What you Should Know about the Weather of Oman

Featuring dense deserts in the central part, Oman mainly has a hot and dry climate. On the contrary, a part of this country is hot and humid due to the sea existing in this region. It is interesting to know that some parts of the desert have a relatively temperate climate. Because natural pools and Falaj Irrigation Systems cause water penetration in these areas and create appropriate conditions for plant growth and temperature balance.

The Economic Resources of Oman

Being adjacent to the sea, this country has several ports. The boom in the fishing and shipping industry has made it independent of oil resources. In addition, towering mountains have made a good environment for agriculture.

The Unknown and Incredible Nature of Oman

The mountains have surrounded a vast part of this country. “Al Hajar” is the highest mountains range in the eastern Arabia Peninsula and its most verdurous mountain is Jebel Akhdar. These high mountains have spread throughout the north and south of the country, and created deep valleys. They also have ideal conditions for rock climbing.

This Arabian country has vast golden or silver-colored beaches beside which there are beautiful palmaris. Numerous coastal valleys have also been formed by the confluence of mountains and seas in this country. These coastal valleys have created spectacular landscapes and attract many tourists.

A wide part of this country is covered by deserts. “Wahiba” is its most visited and touristic desert. Most importantly, permanent camps have been set up in this magical desert to reside tourists. It is also possible to set up temporary camps.

Five UNESCO-listed Relics of Oman

Oman has 5 UNESCO-registered relics which symbolize the civilization and architecture of this country. These relics include Bahla Fort, Ancient City of Qalhat, Aflaj Irrigation Systems of Oman and Archaeological Sites of Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ayn.

This country has still retailed its historic structure. Nevertheless, there are modern buildings adjacent to traditional structures. Therefore, a combination of traditional and modern Islamic architecture can be seen in the important cities of this country.

This country is known for its historic towers. So, there are few places in this land where historical castles have not been built. Even at the top of the mountains and in the most modern cities, there are historic castles for tourists to visit. Most of these high castles were the territory of the Portuguese and had protective use. Therefore, they are usually several hundred years old.

What You Should Know about the Culture of Oman

The Hospitable Citizens of Oman

This country has peaceful, warm and hospitable people. As a result, the political and social conditions in this country are safer and calmer compared to the neighboring countries. The very low crime statistics witness this claim.

The majority of people in this country follow Ibadi sect, one of the oldest sects in religious countries. The followers of Sunni and Shia Sects also live in this country. That is why Ramadan is the most important month in this country, and “fasting” is the most important religious and cultural custom of the people of this country.

Oman, a Touristic Country Known for its Discipline and Cleanness

This country is one of the cleanest and most orderly countries in the world. Actually, it is very important to observe cleanliness and respect for driving rules. As a result, walking in the streets and passages of this country is considered as a tourist pastime, and the cleanliness and order of the streets have added to the beauty of its cities.

This country hosts lots of tourists from all over the world, so English is the second language of people after Arabic. Meanwhile, Oman has a good tourism infrastructure and offers recreational facilities such as snorkeling, fishing, desert touring and rock climbing.

How is the Traditional Clothing of Men and Women in Oman?

Dishdasha is the traditional clothing of Arab men, which is also common in this country. This gown has long sleeves, three buttons and no collar and its height is almost long to the ankle. A pendant is also attached to the dress, which is perfumed. In addition, it is customary for men to wear daggers around their necks in formal ceremonies, which indicates their masculine dignity.

Female clothing in this country is the same as traditional clothing in other Arab countries. Most of the women observe hijab and wear long clothes, but some of them who are younger prefer modern clothes. You can also see unveiled women in the streets.

What are the most Famous Crafts of Oman?

The most famous souvenir of this country is a type of dagger. This dagger is a unique cultural symbol which is also engraved on the flag of Oman. Besides, different types of silver jewelry, pottery and engraved wooden boxes are among the crafts of the region. Locals also build a kind of handy craft, like basket, out of palm leaves to store dates or grains.

What Foods Can You Taste in Oman?

The food culture of the people of this country is influenced by Indian and Middle Eastern foods. Most of the food in this country is spicy and hot. Special types of kebab and special vegetarian dishes cooked with cereals are among the traditional foods of this country. Most importantly, serving the gusts with coffee and dates or a type of Halwa, known as Maskat, is one of their hospitality traditions.

Travelling to Oman, from Mysterious Deserts to Valleys and Spectacular Mountains

On your trip to Oman, you will face historic castles and the modern Islamic architecture of urban buildings. You will also experience travelling to an unknown mysterious nature. Besides vast mysterious deserts, this country has mountains which attract the interested ones to climbing. In addition, its unique irrigation system, has created verdure gardens at the heart of the hot and dry nature of this region.

1001 Nights Tours has designed various tours for travelling to this country. Make sure that you will experience a fascinating and memorable trip by trusting us. Because we have done our best to identify the unknowns of this country and include in our itineraries. To read more about the tour details click here. In case you are interested to enrich your knowledge of this important Arabic country, click here.