Other Cities in Oman, Oman

Rich in history, Oman has been inhabited since 12,000 BC. Oman has had a strategical location on the crossroads of important trade routes between the east and west. The first Arabs settled in Oman in the second century BC From Yemen. In the beginning of the 16th century the Portuguese conquered Muscat to protect their trade route to India. The Portuguese were defeated in 1650 and it was after that the Omanis formed their own Empire and a maritime power. In the late 18th century the sultanate signed a friendship treaty with Britain. Oman became fully independent from the British protectorate in 1951. With the help of the oil reserves, the close relationship with the United Kingdom and the modernization program of the sultan of the country has succeeded in developing Oman's economy and maintaining good relations with the other countries in the Middle East. The Omani culture is highly influenced by the religion of Islam, and Ramadan and other Islamic festivities play an significant role in the society. There are beautiful mosques scattered throughout the sultanate. Omanis are very friendly and hospitable towards visitors. The Islamic traditions in Oman should be respected by dressing conservatively and swimwear should be used only on the beach or pool. English is the second language in Oman and therefore widely understood and spoken in the country.