Modern Era
Modern Era
The Portuguese began to establish small settlements, which were exemplary of the strategy in the Middle East. Yet even here, the Portuguese struggled to establish them long-term. Time and again, they had to defend themselves against the Ottomans, English, Persians, and Dutch. In 1650 AD, it was the Yaruba dynasty that initially unified Oman and expelled the Portuguese. This dynasty had a significant influence on East Africa, bringing great wealth through the slave trade and trade with India. A civil war, lasting about 25 years and resulting from power struggles, allowed the Persians to reemerge before Ahmad ibn Said successfully pushed them back. Since 1746 and until today, the Said dynasty has ruled with the current ruler Haitham ibn Tariq. In 1798, Great Britain gained influence in Oman through a treaty with the Sultan of Muscat and the East India Company. In 1840, Sultan Said decided to move his seat of government to Zanzibar. Despite British influence, this was a flourishing time in history, but after his death, there were disputes in the succeeding generation, leading to the division of the realm into Oman and Zanzibar in 1856. From that point on, the economy went downhill. Maritime trade collapsed, aided by the opening of the Suez Canal and the advent of steamships. Until 1970, the father of the current Sultan kept his country in isolation.
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Safety in Oman
Over recent years, Oman has established itself as one of the safest travel destinations in the Middle East, especially appealing to individual and luxury travelers. The Sultanate stands out with its political stability, low crime rate, and well-developed healthcare system that meets the needs of modern travelers. Ranked as the most peaceful country in the region on the 2023 Global Peace Index and scoring extremely low on the Global Terrorism Index, Oman presents a rare oasis of safety. These stable conditions create an ideal environment for relaxed, authentic travel experiences....
Guided Tours in Oman
For travelers who prefer a very individual and personal approach, there is also the option to take a guided tour in Oman. A local guide, speaking either English or German, leads the guests along a pre-determined route through the country. Such a journey provides culturally interested vacationers with a deep insight into Oman's history and small details of the Omani lifestyle. Due to years of professional experience, many guides know some insider tips that one would not come across alone. Traveling through Oman in this way is particularly suitable for vacationers for whom organization and maxi...
Oman Visa Guide
To visit Oman, you’ll need a visa. The country aims to make entry as smooth as possible for travelers, but it’s still essential to understand the key regulations and requirements. This article provides a comprehensive guide—from the visa application process and entry requirements to costs, validity periods, common mistakes to avoid, and how to handle visa rejections. Here’s everything you need to know for a hassle-free trip to Oman....