The celebration of Oman’s National Day takes place every year on November 18 as a celebration of independence from the Portuguese in 1650.National Day coincides with Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s birthday, which occurs November 19, adding additional significance to the day.
The History of National Day
A tribal society, in 749 Oman chose an Imam to be its first ruler, and so Islam became the main religion there. Despite pressure from neighbouring Arabic countries, Oman remained relatively independent right up until 1507.
The Portuguese demonstrated their formidable naval tactics and superior technology to take control of the ports of Muscat and Sohar, and then rest of the coast of Oman in 1507. The ports were important due to their location as important trading points along the spice route.
Spice trading became a lucrative and important source of income for the Portugese, as well as the British and Dutch who were performing similar commercial operations at the time. However, not satisfied with the conditions imposed under the Portugese, the Al-Ya’ribi persuaded the British East India Company to take over in 1646.Under an agreed treaty, British merchants were guaranteed legal and religious rights while operating in the Oman’s domain, effectively weakening the influence of Portugal in the region.
An uprising in 1650, lead by Sultan Bin Saif ultimately forced the Portugese to leave Oman.As independence has been a staple since, Oman is generally recognized as being the longest continually independent Arab state in modern history.
Oman’s National Day Traditions, Customs and Activities
The Oman celebration emcompasses not only the day of independence but also the Sultan’s birthday. The celebrations often include fireworks, images of the Sultan and prominent displays of Oman’s flag.
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