A traditional Omani dagger (khanjar) with a decorated curved blade, ornate silver handle, and sheath, placed inside a black box.

History of Oman

Written by: Luca Krohn , Philip Eichkorn and Michaela Eckmüller Last updated at: May 21, 2025

The territory of today's Sultanate of Oman was inhabited as early as the Stone Age. Around 2000 BC, Magan, as the region was then called, experienced a peak in copper mining.

From 563 BC, Oman was ruled by various Persian rulers. The Persians facilitated the rebuilding of overseas trade with India, Ceylon, and East Africa. An important innovation introduced by the Persians was the so-called 'falaj'. These are canals that secured the water supply in the villages and the irrigation of the fields and are still used today.

When in 630 AD the population of Oman voluntarily accepted the faith of Islam, the Persians withdrew, and Oman became part of the Caliphate of the Umayyads and Abbasids. Some Omanis migrated to East Africa, thus establishing the dominance of Arabs in the western Indian Ocean. The port city of Sohar in the north of the country became the most important trading hub of the Islamic world due to its favorable location on the Strait of Hormuz. Trade relations could be established with East Africa, India, and China. At that time, Oman exported products such as linen, cotton, and wool, including carpets. Imported goods included ivory, gold, and spices from Africa, silk, porcelain, and jewels from China, and teak wood from India. After the destruction of Sohar, various Persian conquerors ruled the land until around 1500 when the Portuguese captured the island of Hormuz. The Portuguese aimed to destroy the Arab monopoly on East Asian trade and control the trade with India themselves. The Omanis played a significant role as intermediaries in the India trade, a position that Europeans wanted to take over. Ultimately, Vasco da Gama discovered the sea route to India and was able to expand Portuguese power in the Indian Ocean. They destroyed the Omani cities of Muscat and Quriat and managed to control trade with India through their military superiority. Thus, they gained the spice monopoly for Europe. By the end of the 16th century, the Portuguese were eventually weakened by the British and Dutch. Oman was able to unite against the invaders and expelled the Portuguese in the mid-17th century. Oman could once again become the maritime power in the Indian Ocean that it once was. Muscat became an important point between Arabia and India. The leading Sultan conquered Zanzibar and other parts of the East African coast. Around 1750, the Said dynasty emerged, which still governs the country today. In 1798, Britain increasingly gained influence in Oman. A treaty was made between the Sultan and the East India Company that secured Britain's dominance in the Gulf region. By the mid-19th century, Oman was able to expand its power like never before. However, the loss of Zanzibar in 1856 was followed by economic decline and increased dependence on Britain. It was only in 1968 that the British finally left. From 1932 to 1970, Sultan Said ibn Taimur ruled the country, followed by his son Sultan Qaboos, who was succeeded by his cousin, the current head of state Sultan Haitham Ibn Tarik . He kept the state in its backwardness and foreign political isolation. Slavery continued to exist, there were high internal tariffs, and the school system consisted solely of Quranic schools. The oil production and governance of Sultan Qaboos ibn Said, who succeeded his father in 1970, brought extensive reforms. Slavery and restrictions on movement and travel were abolished. The infrastructure could be improved through the profits from oil production.

Discover Oman with experts who have called it their home

Your dream holiday, tailor-made by experts.

We don't just know Oman from books, we visit the country several times a year to experience the culture, landscape and people first-hand.

From your first enquiry to your return home, we are there for you personally - by phone, email or WhatsApp, whenever you need us. Our trips are as unique as you are: individually planned and provided with exclusive privileges and high-quality arrangements that will make your trip unforgettable.

You might also like this

Silhouettes of two people sitting in an airport waiting area at Muscat Airport, overlooking the runway through large windows.

Muscat Airport

2 min read

Muscat International Airport (IATA code MCT) is located a few kilometers outside the capital in Seeb and was known until 2008 as Seeb International Airport. However, since people have long stopped speaking only of the city itself when referring to the capital Muscat but rather the entire capital region, it was only logical that the airport for the region was renamed accordingly. Muscat International Airport is the most important airport in Oman. It handles the largest number of passengers annually, and it is also the main hub for the international flights to Oman. From Provincial Airfield to ...

Sunset over the mountains in Muscat, Oman, with the sun setting behind the horizon and a small building visible on the right hill.

Muscat Capital Region

10 min read

Cultural Highlights and Unique Experiences in and around Muscat Muscat, the capital of Oman, is renowned not only for its breathtaking landscapes and modern architecture but also for its deep-rooted culture and history. For discerning travelers, the city offers exclusive cultural experiences that provide a unique insight into the nation’s rich past and traditions. From majestic fortresses to private tours and one-of-a-kind encounters, Muscat presents a myriad of opportunities to experience Omani culture at its finest....

A U.S. passport and airplane tickets placed on a surface, indicating travel preparations.

Travel Preparation Oman

6 min read

Oman captivates travelers with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. To fully experience the diverse wonders of this Sultanate, proper planning is essential. From visa requirements and health tips to ideal travel times, this guide provides everything you need for a smooth, well-prepared journey to Oman. Learn what climate conditions to expect, how to travel safely in remote areas, and what to know about handling Omani currency. These practical tips and recommendations will ensure you're ready to explore Oman’s beauty to the fullest—whether that means ventur...

Why book with the Oman specialist

On site

Own Canvas Club team with office in Muscat and Salalah. We know all tour guides for many years, all services on site come from us - from one source!

Expertise

Every travel consultant has already lived in Oman for several years. We know all the hotels and highlights of the country personally! And are several times a year on the spot.

Hotel product

Own luxury desert camp 'Canvas Club' in the Wahiba Sands desert with exclusive benefits for our clients

Network

Attractive prices and exclusive benefits through long-standing, trusting partnerships with local hoteliers and service providers.

Accessibility

Contactable 7 days a week via all common communication channels - 24h emergency number on site.

Personal

Each trip is individually worked out and 100% tailored to your needs!