Beyond one’s family relationships and obligations, an Omani’s tribal affiliation is also a crucial part of who they are. In the past, a person’s tribe (Arabic: قبيلة, qabeela) was the primary source of cultural, societal, and political identity; in modern Oman starting with Sultan Qaboos, tribes now primarily have a socio-cultural purpose. Much of ‘traditional culture’ is actually tribal culture (dance, song, poetry) and tribal affiliation still can affect marriage choices and even football club allegiance! However, local tribal governing power and rule of law has been largely absorbed into the modern Omani state government and constitution.

It has been said that the nation of Oman was born of the tribe, and cradled by the tribe. Indeed, Oman has been governed by sultanic dynasties which are actually tribal dynasties, and the current dynasty is the rule of the Al Bu Sa'idi tribe. One of the first tasks of Sultan Qaboos as a new Sultan in 1970 was to receive allegiance to his rule by the various tribal leaders. The current geography of Oman reflects this, as the tribes of Musandam and the Madha enclave chose to be loyal to the Sultan, even though they are situated in the UAE. Even Sultan Haitham, coming to power in 2020, made it a point to travel to various cities and confirm his leadership amongst the tribes, especially in Dhofar.

According to some Western sources, there are a limited number of tribes in Oman, around 50 or so.  According to various Arabic sources, there are more than 200. The true number seems to be unknown.

After this I looked, and behold, right in front of me I saw a vast multitude of people—an enormous multitude so huge that no one could count—made up of victorious ones from every nation, TRIBE, people group, and language. They were all in glistening white robes, standing before the throne and before the Lamb with palm branches in their hands.  And they shouted out with a passionate voice: “Salvation belongs to our God seated on the throne and to the Lamb!” (Revelation 7:9-10)

Thank You, God, that EVERY tribe in Oman will be represented before You in heaven! Thank You that they will stand before the Lamb and worship You! We believe this and declare this in faith!

Worship with us!: Reigning by Jeremy Riddle. Every tribe of Oman will come and bow before You, God! 

Matthew 18:14 Focus—‘Your Father in heaven does not want one of these little ones to be lost.’ 

Please bring these towns and villages before the Father:

Al-Juwayrat, Saham district, Al-Batinah North region. Population: 134

Diraht, Saham district, Al-Batinah North region. Population: 134

Al-Jarwah, Saham district, Al-Batinah North region. Population: 133

Wadi al-Maghar, Saham district, Al-Batinah North region. Population: 113

Al-Qasir, Saham district, Al-Batinah North region. Population: 106

Al-Qaryah, Saham district, Al-Batinah North region. Population: 103