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Observer
2 days ago
- Business
- Observer
Century-old artifacts and discovering the secrets of the National Museum
The best way to truly understand a country is through its historical and cultural artefacts, which serve as windows into its legacy, traditions, and identity. Visiting museums offers an immersive experience that reveals the stories behind a nation's development, its art, and its people. In Muscat, one of the most compelling destinations to delve into Oman's rich history is the National Museum—a treasure trove that vividly brings the country's past to life. Established in 2016, the Oman National Museum was comprehensively designed to serve as a centre for preserving and exhibiting Oman's diverse cultural heritage. The museum's primary purpose is to foster national pride and promote understanding of Oman's history and traditions on an international level. Strategically positioned to tell Oman's complete story, it is a place where visitors can explore thousands of artefacts, from ancient relics to contemporary displays. The museum's architecture itself is a striking feature—an interplay of modern design and traditional Islamic motifs—creating an environment that honours the country's historical roots while embracing the future. Inside, the exhibits are organised into thematic galleries, each offering an insight into Oman's geography, history, and culture. From the first human settlements in the region to the flourishing trade routes that once linked Oman to Africa, Asia, and Europe, the museum narrates the story of Oman's evolution through well-curated collections. 7 One of the most memorable displays in the museum's extensive collection is the 'Sultan Qaboos Development Gallery'—a tribute to Oman's modernisation under Sultan Qaboos bin Said. Here, visitors witness the transformational journey of Oman from a desert landscape to a flourishing nation, with exhibits detailing infrastructure, education, and cultural reforms. This gallery exemplifies Oman's growth and resilience, making it a must-see for those interested in contemporary history. Among the museum's many artefacts, several exceptional pieces stand out and should feature on every visitor's checklist. For instance, the Lion of Sohar, originating from China's Yuan Dynasty and dating back to the 10th century CE, is a glazed porcelain piece that epitomises the historical trade links between Oman and Asia. The Lion's intricate craftsmanship reflects Oman's longstanding maritime history and its role as a trading hub. 3 Another remarkable artefact is the Greek-Style Incense Burner Holder from Sumhuram, Yemen, forged in the 1st century CE. Presented by the Office of the Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan for Cultural Affairs, this bronze piece underscores the ancient trade networks that connected Oman to the wider world. Its significance lies not only in its craftsmanship but also in its testament to Oman's historical position as a crossroads of commerce and culture. Oman's musical heritage is vividly represented by replicas of traditional instruments like the Qabbūs and Tambūra. The Qabbūs, a stringed instrument with roots in South Arabian civilisation, is typically made from a single piece of wood with strings made from animal intestines, played with a pick made of bull horn. Its sound resonates in the music and rituals of Dhofar, reflecting the region's cultural richness. Similarly, the Tambūra, believed to date back to ancient Mesopotamian civilisation, offers a glimpse into the musical traditions of Sur, with its characteristic six strings and bowl-shaped body. For those intrigued by ancient craftsmanship, the museum displays a traditional wind instrument – the Al-Bargam – made from the horn of an oryx or ibex. Though not melodic in the conventional sense, its use in poetry recitals and ceremonial contexts makes it a distinctive symbol of Oman's oral traditions. 9 Furthermore, the museum's collection includes the Esmeralda Ship Bell from the Portuguese era, cast in copper alloy in 1498 CE, which provides insights into Oman's maritime prowess. Similarly, the array of Amulets, or At-Taswīrah, dating from the 14th century AH (20th century CE), offers a captivating look at cultural practices linked to protection and spirituality, especially among Omani children. Another highlight is the Sultan Qaboos bin Said Throne Chair, handcrafted from wood and velvet in 1970. With its intricate carvings and national emblem, it embodies the continuity of Oman's monarchy and governance traditions. Complementing the artefacts are beautifully crafted jewellery, such as intricate necklaces and amulets, which reveal the craftsmanship and symbolism woven into Oman's cultural fabric. To enhance their visit, tourists can opt for various guided tours. The general tours—priced at 10 OMR per group—offer 90-minute insights into the entire collection and are perfect for families or small groups. For a more bespoke experience, private customised tours after working hours at 100 OMR per person, include authentic Omani hospitality and a chance to explore the museum's back-of-house facilities, providing a deeper understanding of Oman's cultural preservation efforts. To fully immerse oneself in Oman's history, private tours can be arranged, providing tailored experiences that highlight specific interests and collections. These personalised excursions allow visitors to explore at their own pace, ensuring an intimate and comprehensive encounter with Oman's heritage. The museum's staff and guides are well-versed in Oman's history and artefacts, providing engaging narrations that bring each exhibit to life. 213-1 Planning a visit to the National Museum in Muscat is more than just a trip — it's an educational journey through Oman's intricate history, diverse cultures, and enduring traditions. With expertly curated galleries, priceless artefacts, and the opportunity for personalised tours, this institution stands out as the ultimate destination for anyone eager to understand Oman's identity beyond the surface. In addition to viewing the treasures, visitors can be assured of a memorable experience by taking advantage of the private tour options. These guided visits, complete with traditional Omani hospitality, ensure that every guest leaves with a deeper appreciation of Oman's cultural fabric and a new perspective on its past. Whether your interest lies in ancient trade relics, musical instruments, or royal memorabilia, there's something in the National Museum for everyone. 135-1
Time of India
07-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Why Oman is considered the most affordable country in Gulf?
Oman's scenic landscapes and affordable living make it the top GCC destination for cost-conscious residents in 2025/ photo: pixabay Oman has been named the most affordable country to live in across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for 2025, according to the latest Cost of Living Index released by data platform Numbeo. Long known for its serene landscapes and understated charm, the Sultanate is now gaining recognition for something even more practical, it offers residents the Gulf's most budget-friendly lifestyle. From Maritime Empire to Modern Oasis For centuries, Oman's identity was shaped by the sea. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Muscat was a thriving maritime capital, with Omani ships dominating trade routes along East Africa and the Indian Ocean. The Omani Empire once stretched down the African coast, including Zanzibar, leaving a cultural legacy still visible today in language, architecture, and cuisine. Unlike its flashier Gulf neighbours, Oman retained a distinct approach to modernisation. After Sultan Qaboos bin Said came to power in 1970, Oman underwent rapid transformation, from an isolated desert kingdom with just a few kilometres of paved roads to a modern state with free education, healthcare, and a robust infrastructure network. Yet it did so without embracing the hyper-urbanisation seen in Dubai or Doha. Today, under Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, Oman continues its Vision 2040 reforms, aiming for economic diversification while preserving its cultural authenticity. This balancing act is a large part of why living in Oman feels calmer and less pressured compared to the steel-and-glass intensity of its neighbours. The 2025 Cost of Living Rankings Numbeo's 2025 Cost of Living Index ranks GCC countries from most to least affordable, and Oman stands out as the region's best-value destination: Oman: Monthly family costs average Dh9,597.6 (OMR 1,004.7; approx. USD 2,611.54), with single residents spending around Dh2,773.2 (OMR 290.3; approx. USD 755.56). The Sultanate's cost of living is 26.5% lower than the UAE's, and rent is a staggering 71.7% cheaper. Bahrain: Second most affordable, with Manama's family costs at Dh10,496.8 (BHD 1,076.1) and single costs at Dh2,968.5 (BHD 304.3), nearly 25% cheaper than Dubai. Kuwait: Family living costs Dh11,105.1 (KWD 923.0), singles Dh3,012.5 (KWD 250.4). Living here is roughly 27% cheaper than Dubai, with rent 61% less. Qatar: Doha sees family expenses at Dh11,716.9 (QAR 11,655.5) and individual costs at Dh3,276.7 (QAR 3,259.5), 20.7% cheaper than Dubai. Saudi Arabia: Riyadh's family costs are Dh12,167.9 (SAR 12,424.0) with singles spending Dh3,378.5 (SAR 3,449.6). Living costs are 19.9% lower than Dubai's, and rent is 55.2% less. United Arab Emirates: The UAE remains the region's priciest country. In Dubai, families spend around Dh14,765 monthly and singles Dh4,242.5. Abu Dhabi is slightly cheaper but still significantly costlier than other GCC capitals. Why Oman's Affordability Stands Out Oman's edge lies not only in cost but in quality of life. Its cities are less congested, infrastructure is reliable, and its social fabric remains close-knit. For expatriates, Oman offers a rare combination: safety, economic value, and cultural richness without the relentless pace and consumerism of larger Gulf hubs. Moreover, Oman's natural beauty, from the jagged Hajar mountains to golden Wahiba Sands and tranquil coastline, makes daily life feel like a permanent getaway. Its policies on rent control and subsidy structures also keep costs in check. Impact on Regional Migration and Policy This affordability index matters beyond lifestyle choices. It could reshape migration patterns within the GCC, with more professionals and families considering Muscat over Dubai or Doha. For policymakers, the data is a reminder that economic growth strategies must balance high-end development with liveable, affordable environments. What is Numbeo's Cost of Living Index? The Cost of Living Index is a global tool comparing the average expenses needed to maintain a certain standard of living. It measures housing, food, utilities, transport, and miscellaneous daily costs, offering insights to individuals, businesses, and governments worldwide. Numbeo, the platform behind it, crowdsources data globally to present real-time snapshots of affordability. Oman's Path Ahead As the Gulf transitions into a post-oil era, Oman's steady approach may prove wise. Its diversified economy, ranging from tourism to logistics, combined with affordable living, positions it as the region's rising dark horse. While Dubai dazzles and Riyadh rebrands, Oman remains Oman, tranquil, traditional, and surprisingly cost-effective. For those seeking a life of dignity without drowning in debt, it may just be the Gulf's best-kept secret.
Observer
31-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman Vision 2040 is a blueprint for sustainable growth: World Bank
From digital corridors to investment pipelines, Oman Vision 2040 is transforming the present for a stronger future, and symbolizes yet another chapter of strategic evolution that has characterized the country from prehistoric Majan to modern Oman, said the World Bank in its blogs. "Developed through extensive consultations with citizens, Vision 2040 enshrines a diversified and resilient economy less reliant on oil while fostering a globally integrated and prosperous society. What began under the leadership of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, with the careful planning of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, is a roadmap charting how Oman can adapt to changing economic conditions, shifting culture, and disrupting technology to steer Oman toward economic diversification, sustainability, and global competitiveness. Oman's steady progress under Vision 2040 offers a model for other emerging economies navigating uncertainty through long-term planning. It further guides Oman's increased global engagement and partnership with organizations like the World Bank Group," the blog said. Oman and the World Bank Group have enjoyed an active partnership for decades. This has led to working together on a range of areas aligned to Vision 2040, from national development plans and budget system modernization to transport and fisheries. A key focus right now is strengthening the investment climate to support private sector-led growth and job creation. The World Bank is bringing global knowledge and advice on best practices in business environment reforms tailored to the Omani context. IFC, the Bank Group's private sector arm, recently announced new investments to bolster the country's sustainable finance market and empower the private sector. MIGA, home of the World Bank Group Guarantee Platform, secured $1.2 billion in commercial financing of the infrastructure works for the Duqm Special Economic Zone. Central to Oman Vision 2040 is the imperative of economic diversification and building a knowledge, technology-driven economy. In practice, this means investing in digital infrastructure, encouraging R&D, and nurturing new industries. Major regulatory reforms have been rolled out to catalyze private-sector growth and foreign investment. For example, a new Foreign Capital Investment Law took effect in 2020, removing minimum capital requirements and allowing 100% foreign ownership in many sectors. Attracting foreign direct investment and strengthening the private sector are key components of the Vision, and these reforms unlock those opportunities. Oman is also leveraging its strategic geography to become a logistics and trade hub. Positioned outside the Strait of Hormuz on major global trade routes, it has prioritized modernizing ports, free zones, and airports. The development of Duqm – a vast special economic zone with a deep-sea port – and upgrades at Salalah and Sohar ports exemplify this push. Such investments aim to streamline the flow of goods and make Oman a vital link in global supply chains. Already, early results of the economic transformation are visible: non-oil sectors like construction, manufacturing, and transport are growing quickly. Maintaining this momentum will require sustained reform, and Oman's multi-pronged approach – from startup incubators to industrial free zones – is steadily transforming the economy. Sustainable development is an overarching principle, and Oman's fisheries sector is a standout success story for this agenda. Fisheries have evolved from a traditional, artisanal industry into a technology-enabled sector that contributes to diversification. The government, with World Bank support, crafted a Fisheries and Aquaculture Vision to create a profitable world-class sector that is ecologically sustainable and a net contributor to Oman's economy. The innovation shown in the Omani sustainable fisheries sector is yielding impressive results. The sector is expanding at near double-digit rates, with a recorded 7.5 percent sectoral growth in the first three quarters of 2024. This progress reinforces the country's ambition for economic diversification by setting a high bar, with the sector aiming to reach 10 percent annual growth and contribute 2 percent to the national GDP. Developing human capital is another key element of Oman's vision. A skilled, educated populace is the bedrock of competitiveness. Educational reforms are underway to align curricula with future labor market needs and improve quality at all levels. Oman's ambition includes ranking among the top 20 countries in global education indices by 2030, and top 10 by 2040. Investments in schools and universities over the past decades have dramatically expanded access. Now the focus is on boosting outcomes in science, technology, engineering, and math to nurture a knowledge economy. Equally important, Oman is fostering a culture of research and entrepreneurship. Through its Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, new programs are funding research and the commercialization of ideas. Innovation parks and incubators have been launched in partnership with the private sector to mentor startups and turn student projects into marketable products. Aspiring young entrepreneurs receive support via financing initiatives and training programs, often co-sponsored by government and industry. Public-private partnerships are helping build this innovation ecosystem – for example, technology companies are collaborating with Omani colleges on coding academies, and energy firms are investing in technical training centers. These efforts are bearing fruit: a burgeoning startup scene is evident in Muscat, and the number of Omani tech SMEs is on the rise. In parallel, Oman has worked to make its labor market more flexible and dynamic, implementing new labor policies in 2023–24, adding more benefits for women, and encouraging private-sector hiring of Omanis. With 64% of the population under 30, all these measures aim to harness Oman's demographic dividend by equipping its youth with the skills and opportunities to innovate. To ensure the successful realization of Oman Vision 2040, a specialized entity—the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit—was established by Royal Decree 100/2020. Reporting directly to the Council of Ministers, the Unit plays a central role in monitoring the progress of the vision, facilitating coordination across sectors, addressing challenges, and providing strategic support to align efforts with the national vision. Looking forward to the next 15 years, there will be continued opportunities as well as challenges in realizing the vision. Successful implementation requires continued commitment, adaptability, and engagement with global partners. Oman's journey towards realizing its 2040 vision can serve as a valuable case study for other countries navigating uncertainties and striving for economic diversification, sustainability, and global integration.
NDTV
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Inside An Oman Factory Where The World's Most Expensive Perfumes Are Made
Muscat: You can bet on its sillage in a room full of your Chanels and YSLs. The dark, sexy oud is complemented by the romance of frankincense and myrrh, and your nose readies itself for a full-fledged olfactory implosion as you enter the House of Amouage. A stone's throw from the city of Muscat in Oman, the exterior drips gold. No, literally. A gilded gold-lined waterbody greets you as you step into the fragrant portals of the House. This is the perfumery where some of the world's most expensive perfumes are made. By hand, with care, and boasting an attention to detail only Amouage can boast of. The brand hasn't been around for too long. It was only in 1983 that the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman set out to realise a dream - of reviving Oman's legendary perfume industry. But before we get to the present, a bit of the past. For centuries a few thousands of years ago, Oman enjoyed the rare status of being the central point of the frankincense trade route. This route ran from the Mediterranean in the west to China in the east. So, Oman was bang at the centre of it geographically and otherwise. The port city of Dhofar is home to some of the best frankincense in the world. In the dry wadis of Dhofar, it's the the dryness that sends the prices of Dhofar frankincense shooting: any humidity, and you have sub-par quality. This frankincense from Dhofar brought in trade might and money for Oman. The craft of perfume-making lay confined to the contours of the country for years, till Oman's much revered and longest-serving Sultan, Sultan Qaboos bin Said, decided it was time to raise the curtains and take the scent of Oman to the world. He commissioned 'The Gift of Kings'. The perfume was named 'Amouage', a symphony of the French word 'amour' for love, and Arabic for 'wave'. And thus, with the 'Wave of Emotion', the world was awash in frankincense. It soon took note of the notes crafted in Muscat. Amouage shot to fame in exquisitely designed bottles; gold-dusted, Swarovski-studded. The bottles, or flacons, are works of art in themselves. The men's perfumes take their inspiration from the Khanjar, the Omani dagger. The women's lines have caps inspired by the dome of a mosque, with a Swarovski crystal on them. As you go higher in the price index, the bottles become veritable collectibles. The Zadora containers, the rarest Amouage bottles ever created, belong in museums. The price tag is in sync. At $150,000 each, these aren't perfumes you pick up at your nearest duty-free. They are made to order and kept for eternity... gift fit for a king, indeed. Inside the white marble facade of the House of Amouage lies an army of perfumers who craft each of these flacons by hand. The perfumery produces 5,000 to 7,000 bottles every day; handcrafted, meticulously, by the Amouage family in Muscat. Much like Oman's geographical location, its most famous perfumes are a midpoint between the East and the West, first created by a French perfumer. So, when Guy Robert was handed the task of creating a perfume that the world would wake up and sniff, he left no stone unturned. The traditional values of Arab culture had to be distilled into a flacon full of French finesse, with a dash of incense. 'Gold', Robert's crowning glory, happened. Robert crafted a scent that was recognisably Arab, but came infused with the modern luxury of French perfumes. This was 1983. The original Gold bottles were iconic, 24-carat gold-plated, and refillable. The Amouage Man, unique in its ornateness, was inspired by the Khanjar. The Amouage Woman bottle was a cube with intricately patterned gold plating. These bottles were initially made by luxury jewellers Asprey, and then by Danny Lehrer Jewellers in London. Today, Amouage Gold doesn't come in the ornate gold-plated bottles, but in glass. A 100-ml flacon retails for Rs 32,500 and is one of the brand's most expensive perfumes around. Amouage Attars. Photo: Author Its other high-end offerings include the Attars: a 100% pure perfume oil line inspired by villages in Oman. A 12-ml vial retails for Rs 47,000. The attars can stay on skin for more than 12 hours and it is precisely this longevity that demands the prices they are sold for. The attars are not your standard perfume. Their base isn't the easily-diffusible alcohol, but oils derived from the best of the Orient: frankincense, rose, myrrh, oud, younameit. View this post on Instagram A post shared by AMOUAGE (@amouageofficial) In the hills of Jabal Akhdar, where Damask roses are in bloom in the months of March-April-May, Amouage has tied up with all local rose farms. These farms distil 3 millilitres of rose oil from 300 kg of roses, and send them all to the House of Amouage for use in their perfumes. Alcohol is haram (impure) in Islam. So, most perfumes in the Islamic world adhere to the Book and swap the alcohol for stronger, longer-lasting oils. The other element that sets Amouage perfumes apart is its ageing process. Perfumes here are given adequate time to develop before being sent out. The ageing takes place in oakwood barrels at the House of Amouage in Seeb. At the Amouage headquarters in Seeb, Oman, 5,000-7,000 bottles are handcrafted every day. Photo: Instagram/Amouage In a chamber adjacent to the wood barrels, a group of women, in abayas, go about their business of sticking golden medals to the base of the flacon at hand. These containers will then be fit with a diffuser, filled in with perfumes carrying the heady scent of Oman, and sent out to the world, which will then soak in its sillage. The gift of kings. A gift fit for kings.
Observer
27-04-2025
- General
- Observer
Rare belongings of late Sultan Qaboos at Muscat International Book Fair
Muscat: The National Museum is participating in the 29th Muscat International Book Fair with a variety of cultural and museum activities. The museum's participation includes a display of its most prominent publications as well as a rare collection of belongings of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said (may Allah the Almighty rest his soul in peace) and a number of artistic and educational activities. Visitors to the National Museum's corner will also have the opportunity to view two rare collections of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said (may Allah the Almighty rest his soul in peace). The first is a copy of the Holy Qur'an penned by Mohammad bin Ali Haees, son of the prominent scholar Sayyid Abdul Salam al Asmar al Fayturi al Tarabulsi. The copy, which dates back to March 16, 1926, is made of leather, ink and gilding on paper. The second collection includes two silver bowls engraved with Surat Al Fatihah and the word Allah, a gift from Manmohan Singh, former prime minister of India, to the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said (may Allah the Almighty rest his soul in peace) in 2008. As part of the activities of the National Museum's corner at Muscat International Book Fair, the Learning Center of the National Museum is offering a number of art workshops inspired by the museum's collections, designed for children, to raise public awareness about Omani heritage. The Friends of the Museum and Community Outreach Department will also participate in an introductory lecture about the National Museum and its publications. The National Museum's participation at Muscat International Book Fair comes as part of its efforts to enhance its presence in cultural forums and affirm its position as a leading institution that conveys the museum's message to various society segments.
