10 interesting facts about Oman

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There is only one country in the world that starts with the letter O,

and that is Oman.

Ibadi islam

Ibadi Islam is a distinct sect of Islam, neither Sunni nor Shi‘ite, that emerged in the early Islamic period and remains active today in Oman. Ibadism calmly evinces its tolerant side, consistent with the centuries-old Islamic tradition of cooperation.

Incense burners (also known as majmar).

Incense have even been immortalized in sculpture across the capital and are an integral part of Omani tradition. Produced in Oman and it is an aromatic resin used in medicine and religion.

The Omani royal family's perfume, Amouage, is one of the world's luxury perfume brands.

The luxury perfume was founded in 1983 at the request of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, Oman's head of state, as a way to both preserve the sultanate's perfume-making traditions and provide gifts for visiting world leaders.

The most influential sultan

The Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said, who ruled Oman from 1970 until his death in 2020, is widely regarded as one of the most influential and progressive leaders in the Arab world.

Created in 751dc

Oman was founded as an Imamate in 751, making it the oldest state of the Arab world.

Almost 80% of Oman's territory is desert

Almost 80% of Oman's territory is desert and is still inhabited by small Bedouin communities who maintain their traditional lifestyle and customs in places like the Wahiba Sands desert. Oman is also home to the Rub al-Khali desert, one of the largest deserts in the world and known for having some of the highest sand dunes.

Wadis among the dunes

Derived from the Arabic term ‘wādī’, meaning valley, these formations are characterized by their unique, breathtaking appearances. You can think of the Wadis as nature’s surprise, as the rainy season sets in, the dry and empty valleys turn into awe-inspiring oases, complete with vibrant green foliage, natural hot springs, and mysterious caves. Wadis represent the quintessential beauty of Oman, and their popularity is well-deserved.

Unique livestock markets

In the city of Nizwa, one of the oldest livestock markets in the world is held Every Friday, traders gather to buy and sell goats, sheep and camels, creating an atmosphere full of tradition and culture.