Frankincense from the Sultanate of Oman made a considerable contribution to the wealth of southern Arabia in ancient times. Greece and Rome bought massive quantities for their religious rites, with Emperor Nero burning more than the annual harvest of Arabia at the funeral of his wife Poppaea alone. Gradually demand dropped though it remained popular in the Arab world.The Dhofar region of Oman is believed to have been one of the main ports for exporting frankincense in ancient times. Still today, one of the worlds best quality frankincense is found in the Dhofar area, inland of the mountains affected by monsoon. At the heart of Dhofar is Salalah, located on the southern misty coast of Oman - about a 1,000 miles from the capital, Muscat. Entire souqs in Salalah are dedicated to selling this product of Dhofar’s heritage and other traditional perfumes.
Incense from
the Boswellia trees is first harvested when the trees are about three years old. The precious resin drops are harvested by making an incision in the bark of the tree. The white latex-like substance is later collected and, when dried, becomes crystalline.
the Boswellia trees is first harvested when the trees are about three years old. The precious resin drops are harvested by making an incision in the bark of the tree. The white latex-like substance is later collected and, when dried, becomes crystalline.Frankincense remains a symbol of Omani hospitality. Its fragrant resin is today burned throughout the Sultanate to welcome guests and its aromatic oil is one of the primary ingredients used in Oman’s legendary perfume, Amouage – one of the most valuable scents in the world.
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