Oman's maritime legacy spans millennia, with ancient seafaring traditions shaping its culture and economy. From navigating the Incense Route to thriving as a bustling trade hub in Muscat, Omani sailors wielded mastery in sailing the Arabian Sea.
Islamic influences further propelled maritime exploration, resisting European powers like the Portuguese. The "Golden Age" of Oman's maritime power in the 17th-19th centuries saw flourishing trade and cultural exchange. Despite colonial incursions and the oil era's transformation, Oman's ties to the sea endure.
Modern Oman sustains maritime activities like fishing, shipping, and trade, honoring its heritage through traditional sailing events. These celebrations reflect the nation's ongoing commitment to preserving its rich maritime history, anchoring Oman's identity as a seafaring nation navigating through the currents of time.
Oman has always been a ship building nation and the country's legacy is rooted in the traditional craftsmanship of dhows — wooden sailing vessels that symbolize its rich seafaring heritage. These boats, constructed using local timber, facilitated trade across the Arabian Sea and beyond, showcasing Omani sailors' navigation skills and contributing to economic prosperity.
Over time, modernization brought technological advancements, introducing steel and fiberglass in shipbuilding. Government initiatives aimed at enhancing infrastructure and attracting investments have supported the industry's growth.
Despite challenges like global competition and market fluctuations, Oman's shipbuilding sector persists. Leveraging its strategic location, skilled labor, and historical expertise, Oman aims to further develop its shipbuilding industry, tapping into niche markets and specialized vessel construction to navigate the evolving dynamics of the global maritime landscape.
Abdulfatah Al Shehhi, the visionary behind "Hospitality Middle East," embarked on his journey in 2001 with just one ship. Fueling his ambition, he expanded his fleet, catering to diverse purposes, and drawing in crowds from Oman and the UAE.
In 2004, Al Shehhi strategically engaged in international shipbuilding exhibitions across France, Italy, the UK, and Germany. This marked the genesis of showcasing Oman's rich marine life and the plethora of enthralling activities awaiting tourists—ranging from swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking to fishing and beyond.
Eight years into his endeavor, Al Shehhi elevated his fleet by conceptualizing and crafting the iconic Rubba Yacht, a response to the competitive landscape in Khasab. This marvel took a full year to materialize—a fusion of Omani ship heritage and contemporary international design. Featuring six exquisitely designed rooms with a sophisticated hotel-like system, the yacht offers diverse programs, treating guests to 5-6-day voyages across breathtaking locales. Amidst these trips, guests engage in captivating activities, from fishing, diving, and hiking to witnessing the grace of dolphins, alongside shorter 3-5-hour daily excursions.
The Rubba Yacht became a magnet for tourists worldwide, especially during the delightful weather window between January and May, drawing in a considerable influx of visitors.
By 2016, Hospitality Middle East ascended to the ranks of the top five global marine tourism companies, a position reinforced in the Middle East by 2017. This achievement stands as a testament to the pride felt throughout the Sultanate.
Oman's rich shipbuilding heritage, steeped in its history as a notable trade center, now plays a pivotal role in promoting marine tourism. Abdulfatah Al Shehhi's foresight and innovation have birthed a remarkable and unparalleled venture—a contemporary yacht offering an extraordinary oceanic experience.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
