Written by Omani historian Salem bin Ahmed bin Salem Al-Kathiri, the book offers a comprehensive academic exploration of Portuguese colonial ambitions in the Arabian Sea and the fierce resistance they met along the coasts of Dhofar.

A Vital Contribution to Omani and Arab Historical Literature

This historical study shines a spotlight on a critical yet under-researched era in Omani history, when the Portuguese Empire sought to dominate trade routes in the Arabian Sea. Al-Kathiri’s work is a meticulous, evidence-based account that draws on both Arabic and Portuguese historical sources to present a well-balanced perspective.

At the heart of the book is a core research question:
What were the political, economic, and cultural consequences of the Portuguese presence in Dhofar?

Key Highlights of the Book

The book is structured into seven in-depth chapters:

• Introduction: An overview of Dhofar’s strategic importance and the historical context of Portuguese expansion.
• Chapter 1 – Portuguese Exploration and Motives: Reveals the economic goals behind Portugal’s presence—not just religious, but driven by control of profitable maritime trade routes.
• Chapter 2 – Early Effects on Arabian Coasts: Details how trade, security, and port activity were disrupted across the region.
• Chapter 3 – The Kathiri State’s Resistance: Focuses on how Dhofar’s ruling power, the Kathiri State, coordinated military and diplomatic responses, including outreach to the Ottoman Empire.
• Chapter 4 – Portuguese Perceptions of Dhofar: Examines misunderstandings and inaccuracies in Portuguese knowledge due to unreliable sources.
• Chapter 5 – Military Attacks on Dhofar: Chronicles the repeated assaults and the strong local resistance that hindered Portuguese advances.
• Chapter 6 – Economic Impact: Analyzes how looting and instability led to a decline in port trade and regional commerce.
• Chapter 7 – Dhofar in Oral Memory: Captures the living memory of this resistance through local oral traditions and folklore.

A Story of Resilience and Strategic Failure

Al-Kathiri’s research concludes that the Portuguese failed to establish a lasting presence in Dhofar. This was due to several factors: organized local resistance, harsh climate conditions, and the inability of military force alone to control the region. These failures forced the Portuguese to shift from confrontation to negotiation with local leaders and merchants.

Why This Book Matters

This book is a must-read for scholars, students, and anyone interested in:

• The history of Portuguese colonialism in the Arabian Sea
• The resilience of Omani society during foreign invasions
• The role of Dhofar and the Kathiri State in regional politics
• Documented oral history as a source of national memory

📘 Book Details

• Title: The Portuguese Presence in the Arabian Sea and Its Impact on the Dhofar Region of Oman
• Author: Salem bin Ahmed bin Salem Al-Kathiri
• Publisher: The Omani Cultural Club
• Language: Arabic
• Category: History / Colonial Studies / Oman Studies