Oman Fun Facts - Original Travel

Oman is the oldest independent state in the Arab world, with a history dating back over 100,000 years. A maritime powerhouse, it once stretched all the way down the east coast of Africa
Oman’s east coast beaches are a prime spot to see nesting endangered green turtles, especially in Ras al-Jinz
Oman was once the trade centre for frankincense, the powerful smelling incense given as a gift to the newborn baby Jesus in the nativity, thanks to the numerous frankincense trees that grow in the southern part of the country
On special occasions, Omani men wear a dagger called a khanjar around their waists
Oman is the only country in the Arabian Peninsula that still entertains bullfighting. It is thought that the sport was introduced by the Portuguese who occupied Muscat Fort in the 16th Century
Oman (as well as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Yemen) is home to the Empty Quarter, the largest sand sea in the world
Camel racing is a very popular sport in Oman. They can reach speeds of up to 40 miles an hour – faster than cars driving through an English town
Oman is home to the world’s second biggest canyon, Wadi Ghul, coming second behind the mighty Grand Canyon in the USA
It rains as much in a year in Oman as it does in an average month in the UK
Oman’s national animal is the Arabian Oryx. These endangered white antelope are known for their distinct humpback, long straight horns and tufted tail