Sultanate of Oman Public Authority for Crafts Industry

Introduction

Omani craft industries represent a rich heritage that embraces all aspects of Omani society. These industries are among the important heritage tributaries that are inspired by the reality of Omani nature. They are also one of the aspects of cultural and social life that indicate Omani identity.

Moreover, these craft industries are one important income sources for a large number of Omani families and individuals and a factor of economical revival at rural areas.

Advantages of Omani Craft Industries

Due to the geographical diversity in the Sultanate that includes various environments: urban, Bedouin, coastal, and mountainous. Such diversity has had an indelible impact on the diversity and multiplicity of craft industries.

Moreover, the diversity of the raw materials at these environments has contributed to the diversity of cultures and skills of the craftspeople, hence, the rich diversity of products and their idiosyncrasies.

Importance of Continuous Development of Omani Craft Industries

Given that craft industries have been the fruit of a pioneering and immortal nation that has had its own role regarding intellect and culture and that they have been among the most important basics of social life: they meet household, agricultural, marine requirements as well as land transportation on cattle, craft industries were an integral part of daily life.

Economically speaking, these craft industries were among the major exports to the countries which Omani mariners reached and established political and economic relations therein due to their leadership in seafaring and daring the mysterious overseas world. Omani handmade products had worldwide reputation due to their quality and precision. The demand on them increased to the extent they filled the markets in east Africa, India, China, Baghdad and Basra.

In light of the above, Oman and Omanis have been proud of such craft industries for the role they played down the years. More still, such Omani cultural contribution is still opening its way through providing a new distinctive art to local and international markets. These craft industries are the actual Omani ambassador that tells about our interest in our cultural identity and how strong we are connected to our history and civilization in developing and highlighting such historical industries with a contemporary hue.