I knew very little about Oman before we moved here, which is outrageous considering it has so many claims to fame. So what is Oman famous for?
Here’s 10 things that have made Oman famous:
1. Oman’s empire
Oman was once a powerful empire which spread all over the Arabian Peninsular and across the Indian Ocean into East Africa including modern day Kenya, Tanzania and Mozambique.
As early as the 2nd Century AD Oman’s capital Muscat played a pivotal role in the trade of spices, textiles and timber between Asia, Africa and Europe.
Waves of merchants, as well as less welcome invaders from Persia, Portugal and the Ottoman Turk empire, have shaped the people and place across the centuries.
2. Frankincense
The country’s Dhofar region produces the finest frankincense in the world.
You’ll find this fragrant resin on sale in all Oman’s souqs and used as incense everywhere from hotels to shopping malls and even in the airports.
3. Omani doors
Omani houses are known for their beautiful doors.
Whether they are made of wood or metal you’ll find them intricately decorated as people want to impress their guests from the moment they reach the threshold.
Some ancient doors are also engraved with details of the people who lived inside as well as who built the house, almost like a trade mark advertising their services.
4. Khareef
Oman’s ‘khareef’ or monsoon season is renowned throughout the Middle East and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to Salalah every summer.
The rains come from June to September and turn southern Oman’s Dhofar region into a green paradise with flowing waterfalls and lush vegetation. A programme of cultural and sports events are planned to coincide with the rainy season.
5. Oman Chips
If you know, you know! Oman Chips are a national treasure.
This lightly spiced snack can be savoured on its own or sprinkled on salads, added to sandwiches or smothered in cream cheese.
6. Wadis
When you see pictures of Oman’s wadis you probably think of the word ‘oasis’. Their turquoise waters, often lined with palm trees and towering sand coloured cliffs certainly give off desert paradise vibes.
‘Wadi’ comes from the Arabic word ‘wādī’ which means valley. They come in all shapes and sizes, but essentially they are a valley that can flood.
Wadis can have rivers running through them all year round. And they can be dry river beds or gullies that only flood during the rainy season.
The forces of nature that have shaped these places have also left behind caves, incredible geology and hot springs.
Find out more about wadis in Oman.
7. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is the most popular place to visit in Muscat. And no wonder. Its architecture, scale and atmosphere are a heady mix that leaves a lasting impression on worshippers and tourists alike.
It took six years to build the mosque. When it was opened by the late Sultan in 2001 it boasted the largest handmade carpet and the biggest chandelier in the world.
The UAE and Qatar have now snatched both titles, but this in no way diminishes the awe-inspiring spectacle of this mosque. It has to be seen to be believed.
Find out more about visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat.
8. Halwa
An Omani treat you have to try is Halwa. This traditional sweet is made using ghee, tapioca flour and water. Its texture is similar to Turkish delight.
Halwa can be flavoured with dates, saffron, cardamom and nuts.
If you visit an Omani home you will be offered Halwa along with dates and Omani coffee.
9. Bahla Fort
Oman has five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the first of which to be recognised was Bahla Fort in the Hajar Mountains.
Bahla was the capital of the central Omani region between the 12th and 15th Centuries, and the impressive fort was the strong hold of the ruling Banu Nebhan tribe.
If you only have time to visit one fort during your time in Oman make it Bahla. Not only is its maze of walls and chambers fascinating to explore, it’s much less busy than nearby Nizwa Fort where the majority of tourists flock.
10. Aflaj of Oman
When water can be in short supply you need an ingenious irrigation system to distribute it to people and crops. Such a system was in existence in Oman as early as 2,500 BC.
Aflaj are small canals that channel water from underground springs to homes and plantations in the Dakhiliyah, Sharqiyah and Batinah regions of Oman. Three thousand have been recorded and many are still in use today in agriculture.
Keep your eyes peeled when you are in the mountains. If you visit Wadi Bani Khalid, Nizwa or Misfat al Abriyeen you will see them there.
Of course Oman is famous for many more people, places and achievements than this. Do you have a favourite?
More reading about Oman
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