1.Arab World’s Oldest State
Oman is the oldest independent Arab State .It is among the most traditional countries within the Gulf region. It also remained the most isolated country in the region until 1970s. Oman is located on the south-east end of the Arabian Peninsula. It enjoys a position of strategic importance at the entrance of the Gulf region.
2.Becoming a Nation
Oman was called Magan by ancient Mesopotamian and Persian civilizations. It was important for ornamental stone and copper production. Arabic tribes took up Islam in Prophet Muhammad’s lifetime between c. 570 and 632and forced Persian colonizers to leave the territory. Oman has maintained an independent Ibadi/Sunni and Arab Muslim Identity.
3.Oman’s Identity
The national identity of Oman has evolved from predominant Arab culture, Islam and tribal organization. The country has survived classical Islamic empire efforts to subdue it as well the 16th century Portuguese invasion that was largely confined along its coastal ports. A national Omani resistance terminated the invasion mid-17th century.
4.Oman had an Empire of its own
At some point, Oman had an empire of its own that reached its peak during the 19th century. The empire extended all the way to the East African Coast and Oman fought with the British and Portuguese to maintain the Empire’s influence on the Indian Ocean and Gulf region.
5.International Isolation
Under the leadership of Sultan Said bin Taimur who, in 1932 ascended to power, Oman went through decades as an isolated country international. It was a society that faced internal rebellion and ran along medieval lines. Sultan Qaboos bin Said took the reins of power in 1970 after he deposed his father. The Sultan opened the country up and embarked on reforming the economy by boosting spending on education, welfare and health.
6.Oman’s Economy
Similar to other countries in the Gulf region, Oman’s economy is largely dependent on oil, which contributes largely to its GDP. However, Oman is just a modest oil producer compared to its neighboring countries. Tourism is also a key sector in Oman whose major attractions include deserts, mountains, the largely unexploited coastline and the expanding capital, Muscat that features palaces, forts and an old walled city. The other important sectors in the country are fishing and agriculture.
7.Ceremonies and Customs
In Oman, dry or fresh Dates are a crucial ingredient in diet and are a hospitality ritual. The helwa, a tasty confection made from clarified butter, spices and honey is also important. Omanis refrain from food and drinks during Ramadhan month, sunrise to sunset. Dates and coffee are used to break the fast before a ritual meal heavy in spices and oil is served.
8.Economic Activities
Most Omanis stay in rural areas and many more own property and land in the countryside. Most people in the rural areas are self-sufficient fishermen and farmers. The major agricultural activity is livestock production in mid and southern parts of Oman. Fishing is mainly done along the coastline. Almost a third of none-oil exports in Oman are agricultural and fish products. Oman imports just below half of eggs, mutton and beef and over 50% dairy products and vegetables it needs.
9.The Dress Symbol
In Omani culture, dress is a badge that is highly visible and one that marks a person’s identity. To Omanis, the dress is tuned to reflect each individual’s ethnic background or region of origin. For women, their clothing, especially the head cloth and face cover shows membership to a specific ethnic, tribal or language group. For men, the ankle-length shirt known as ‘thawb’ is an expression of regional or tribal belonging. Both men and women are required to cover their heads.
10.Architectural Style
Omani’s urban culture is strongly influenced by Indian Mogul’s architectural style as seen on whitewashed seafronts and residential buildings along Matrah’s harbor, minarets, mosques and some public buildings.
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