A traditional Omani khanjar (curved dagger) and a decorative heart-shaped pendant displayed on a black platform within an ornate white frame.

Oman in Ancient Times

Oman in Ancient Times

Written by: Luca Krohn Last updated at: May 21, 2025

Muslim Arabs, led by the companion of the Prophet Amr ibn al-As, conquered the region of Oman around 630 AD and made it part of the Caliphate of the Umayyads and Abbasids. They ruled Oman for an extended period from Baghdad and Damascus. This marks the dawn of Islam in Oman.

Just a few decades later, the Islamic sect of Ibadism emerged, establishing independent Imamate in the interior around 900 AD. After prolonged power struggles, the authority of the Imams lost influence to the Nabhani dynasty, which managed to reunite Oman around 1180 AD. The Nabhani made Bahla their capital, but were constantly threatened by Persian invaders. This period is poorly documented, but there were recurring fluctuations in the size of the territory. At the end of this dynasty, the Persians regained control of the coastal regions before the Portuguese invaded in 1507 AD. Muscat invasion.

Discover Oman with experts who have called it their home

Your dream holiday, tailor-made by experts.

We don't just know Oman from books, we visit the country several times a year to experience the culture, landscape and people first-hand.

From your first enquiry to your return home, we are there for you personally - by phone, email or WhatsApp, whenever you need us. Our trips are as unique as you are: individually planned and provided with exclusive privileges and high-quality arrangements that will make your trip unforgettable.

You might also like this

View of the white marble façade of the Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Oman with arched entrances and intricate architectural details.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque of Muscat

6 min read

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, the capital of Oman, stands as a remarkable symbol of the country's cultural identity and spiritual heritage. Nestled in the heart of Al-Ghubra in the Bawshar district, the mosque is a centerpiece of the vibrant Muscat Capital Area. Positioned along the main road between Muscat and Seeb, its central location makes it easily accessible to both locals and travelers from around the world....

Tourists swimming and relaxing in a rocky canyon with clear water under a blue sky

Oman Tourism

2 min read

The Sultanate of Oman on the Arabian Peninsula is continuously developing its tourism in a sustainable way. The philosophy here is fundamentally different from that of the neighboring countries such as the United Arab Emirates. In Oman, there are few hotels, which are, however, of very high standard. The image is shaped by a few luxury hotels while simple hotels or guesthouses are rarely seen. A study by the World Economic Forum (published in April 2017) ranks Oman ninth in terms of tourism growth. The character of gentle tourism remains, as the hotels adapt to the traditional image of Oman a...

A wooden pier extending towards the sea with a person standing at the end, under a clear blue sky.

The perfect travel weather in the Wahiba Sands Desert

2 min read

Are you planning an unforgettable trip to Oman and wondering when the best time to visit the Wahiba Sands Desert is? Here you will find all the important information about the climate and weather in this fascinating region....