About Oman

About | Location | Best time to go | What to do | What to see

Oman is a welcoming, hospitable destination and growing in popularity among seasoned world travelers. Every Omani you'll meet on your travels will say ‘Ahlan was salan! Welcome!', and mean it. The people and their country will charm you with their delightful mix of ancient Arab culture and values, modern development and amenities and the natural beauty of their landscape.

Oman has a deep and rich culture that extends back several millennium, embracing popular legends such as the stories of Sinbad the Sailor and as being the source of the precious Frankincense and Myrrh that was presented by the three wise men. The Omani national identity is based in its predominant Arab language and culture, its tribal organization, Islam and it's geographical location.

Although Oman has existed as a distinct nation for several thousand years, the modern state-the Sultanate of Oman-is a creation of the last two centuries. Upon the death of Sayyid Said bin Sultan, known as Said the Great, in 1856 an economic downturn brought hard economic conditions which did not improve until 1970. It was then that the current ruler Sultan Qaboss bin Said al-Said seized power from his father, Said Bin Taimur, and began the gargantuan task of revitalizing his country, which now has an enviable infrastructure, ample and modern housing, schools, hospitals, electricity, and yet retain many of the wonderful traditions and culture that make Oman such a unique destination.

A phrase you'll often hear in Oman is "Once seen, never forgotten", and it is so true. Once you've seen Oman, you will have life-long memories in your heart and indelible images in your mind, and many wonderful stories to share.