Oman is the country on the South-eastern coast of the Arab Peninsula that lies along the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and the Arabian Sea. Having a long history in the Arab world, Oman plays an important role in the world for agriculture and trade. This location along the most important sea trade routes has developed a long history of sea trade and water based industry in Oman. Oman has also experienced a large growth in tourism and access to world imports due to is ease of access from the ocean. Oman has become one of the most visited Arab countries by foreign visitors due to their growing focus on tourism. Oman’s rich culture and long history means that there many unique aspects of life for visitors to enjoy and learn about.
Oman Facts
1. Oman Has one of the Longest Rule of One Family
Throughout history, countries have changed ruling powers or families through war or shifts in society. Some places have experienced hundreds of different leaders, but in Oman, the royal Al Said family has ruled since 1744. This modern ruling family is the third longest dynasty in recorded history. Arabian countries have had many long lines of rule, but the Al Said family tops the charts with their firm hold on Oman’s political reign, an interesting fact about Oman. Qaboos bin Said, the most recent ruler, was the 15th generation Sultan in Oman. Since Qaboos’ recent passing, one of his cousins will take the title of Sultan to continue the Al Said family royal line.
2. This Country Is Home to World Famous Ship Builders
The Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea is one of the world’s busiest trade routes. Ships carrying goods from around the world pass through this important area. Because of the long history of sea trade in Oman, there are many specialized ship builders. Traditional wooden ships are still built alongside modern boats. The traditional wooden design still holds value in Oman because it is a significant cultural symbol, a fun fact about Oman.
These are important pieces for celebration and sharing culture with tourists. They are known to be designed with very close detail, ensuring that each piece is high quality. The ships also feature artwork that has defined Oman for hundreds of years. When travelling on the Persian Sea of Gulf of Oman, look out for these traditional wooden ships and their historic beauty.
3. Omanis Love Coffee
Coffee is a very important part of culture around the world. Each country has different processes to make and drink coffee. Omanis have been drinking coffee for hundreds of years, which has developed a rich history of coffee culture in Oman. In many cities around the world, it is easy to find a coffee shop to quickly get a cup of coffee when you are in a rush.
An interesting fact about Oman is that in this country, drinking coffee is a long process and is enjoyed slowly with company. Drinking coffee in the middle of the day allows Omanis to catch up with their friends, family, or co-workers. They pour a very small amount of coffee in the cup to take small sips, and refill the cup many times until they are satisfied. This style of slow coffee drinking and conversation is an important part of culture in Oman, as almost every Omani loves drinking coffee.
4. The People Work On Saturday and Sunday
Currently, Omanis have to work and go to school for a full day on Saturday and Sunday. This does not mean that they do not get days off, they enjoy the weekend on Thursday and Friday. Friday is the holy day in the Muslim religion, which is the primary religion in Oman. Worship and prayer ceremonies are on Fridays, making it an important day to take off from work. Having Friday as a day off is a common thing in Middle Eastern Muslim countries, but Thursday as the other day off is something unique to this country, a fun fact about Oman. Many other countries use Saturday as their other weekend day.
5. There Are Famous Buildings Built Hundreds of Years Ago
Oman is known for preservation of their oldest buildings. Buildings from the 1500’s and 1600’s still are found on the hillsides or in the mountains of Oman. These buildings were castles for some of the elite members of historical Oman. Others are military fortresses or community spaces dating back many years.
These sites are preserved well by historians and archeologists, who uncover and provide information about the historical discoveries of Oman. These buildings have different styles based on how old they are. They act as physical indicators of the changes of technology in Oman over history.
6. Farming and Fishing Are the Most Popular Jobs
In the modern day, many countries and cities have shifted to an economy that runs of production and services. These cities rely on other places to provide the food that the people need because they cannot grow it themselves. Oman is one of the locations that provides food for many of its neighboring countries.
A fun fact about Oman is that agriculture and fishing is still the most common job that Omanis have. Growing food and fishing in the Gulf of Oman has become the main source of income for many families. Because farming and fishing are the most common jobs, Omanis have become very skilled at these jobs, and work very hard to produce food for their countries and for people around the world.
Conclusion
Oman has a culture that includes some influences from around the world. Food, coffee, and tourism has all developed from the various countries that trade with Oman. The access to world influences has allowed Omanis to develop their own culture, while enjoying the aspects of cultures from the rest of the world. The long rule of the Al Said family has made the government in Oman stable and the country has become very safe from crime or violence. Hard work in traditional jobs is what fuels the Omani economy, but plays a major role in providing essential products to the world.
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