As a mark of rememberence for the time Oman gained inependence from Portugal in the 17th century, a National Day is celebrated on 18th November each year. The celebration also coincides with Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s birthday, adding 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.

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.Unsatisfied with the Portuguese exploitation of resources in Oman, the Al-Ya’ribi clan wooed the British East India Company 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.

However in 1650 there was an uprising: Imam Sultan Bin Saif and his followers effectively expelled the Portugese from their position of occupancy.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

Today, people celebrate both Oman’s independence from the Portuguese and the Sultan’s birthday on November 18. Fireworks displays, images of the sultan, and Oman’s flag can be seen during celebrations that focus on the progress the current sultan, Qaboos bin Said, has made for the people of Oman.

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