Essence of Oman

Essence of Oman is difficult to derive because it is in the air, in the soil and the hearts of its people.

We are in the National Day week, and we have the flags flying proudly. We might not have the decorations of lights but we have the light within us to remind us of the love we have for this land.

This year November 18 falls on weekend, and we will have the military parade to mark the National Day of Oman. Where ever or which ever part of the world you are, the Sultanate of Oman television will provide coverage via the digital media.

The world has reasons to feel sorrow, but this is yet another beautiful occasion to express gratitude. This feeling is not just for people who are in Oman but for everyone who has been in this land at some point of time in their lives. There is something in Oman that grows in you and becomes part of you. For sure it is in its nature that reflects through its land and people. It is no wonder Oman has so many of its cultural elements recognised by Unesco. But the unique traits of the society is something that is to be recognised and noted.

Certain customs of hospitality is taught at young age. I was lucky to have observed it closely as I had the opportunity to travel wide in Oman and the warmth one receives while visiting homes was something poetic from the way halwa and kahwa were served to giving back the kahwa cup back, the signalling to the person who is serving the coffee whether you want more or not, the enthusiasm in serving food and cutting fruits... all indicate one thing and that is joy of your presence. Then it is the perfumes for you after the meals. Maybe there are variations but these moments of care stay with you forever.

Interestingly you can see how the sense of smell plays a significant role throughout. The fragrance of frankincense and bakhoor in the air, the flavours and smell of rose and saffron in the halwa, aroma of coffee and spices, and the food and fruits and finally the perfume, which could range from oud, musk, sandalwood, rose to anything modern. It is a unique journey. And the taste for musk and rose has stayed with me. These distinct smells would always remind you of Oman like jasmines of Oman in summer packed in between tree leaves that used to be sold in Sidab.

The interesting part of the hospitality is that most of the time it is the young male members who serve and the seniors take over, which goes on to prove how in the traditional settings the young are taught life skills with efficiency. In the mosques too one can observe the young ones come to wish their father after the prayers. It is a mixture of respect and gratitude that will remain forever.

We can only enjoy a country to the fullest if you understand its culture and people.

Friend and adventurist, Lilianne Donders, puts it this way, “To understand different cultures, it is important not to observe from outside but from inside. We are all humans, and it really doesn't make a difference where we come from, and sharing traditions makes the world a better place.”

Traditions are built for hundreds of years and there are meanings and stories behind them. And that is why Unesco lists World Heritage Sites and Oman has claimed five inscriptions on the Unesco World Heritage List.

The recent achievement is the New Omani Cultural Elements in the Unesco Programme of Historical Events and Globally Influential Figures. The Unesco programme that celebrated the fiftieth or centenary of important historical events and globally influential figures saw inclusion of the 350th anniversary of the establishment of Jibreen Fort, and the 150th anniversary of the death of the historian and poet Humaid bin Muhammad bin Raziq. The forty-second session of the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation - Unesco, is currently being held until November 22 at the organisation’s headquarters in Paris.

Unesco included Jibreen Fort in this programme as one of the important historical events, on the occasion of the 350th anniversary of its establishment during the reign of Imam Belarab bin Sultan al Yarubi, and its construction was completed in 1675.

As we enjoy the National Day holidays on November 22, 23 it might be an idea to explore these historical places. Stand next to this beautiful structure that was built 350 years ago and live the moment!

Enjoy Oman’s stability and security, wisdom, tolerance and nature.