Oman’ National Day Celebrated
The celebration of Oman’s National Day takes place every year on November 18 as a celebration of independence from the Portuguese in 1650. The event is shortly followed by the Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s birthday, so it’s a very important date in the Omani calendar.
The History of National Day
Islam first entered Oman in 749, when the country chose an Imam to be its leader. The country’s people remained relatively independent until 1507, despite some pressure from neighbouring Iran and other Arab countries.
In 1507, the Portugese arrived, bringing with them superior naval technology which infiltrated Muscat and Sohar. The ports were important due to their location as important trading points along the spice route.
Trading spices and other Eastern commodities was a lucrative activity for the British, Dutch and Portugese in the 17th century. But as the Portugese started to exploit Oman’s resources, the Al-Ya’ribi decided to woo the East India Company of Britain to reduce the strain on resources the Portugese were placing on Oman.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.
On November 18, 1650, Imam Sultan Bin Saif and others led an uprising that effectively expelled Portugal from Oman and its ports.As independence has been a staple since, Oman is generally recognized as being the longest continually independent Arab state in modern history.
Traditions 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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