Ties between Oman and France date back to the 1660’s. A time when Muscat’s port was full of life with the trade activities of the many merchant ships belonging to the Indies Company that was engaged in trading with the Persian Gulf. In fact in 1775, France was given official permission by Imam Ahmed to put up a French trade post in Muscat. This was further strengthened in 1786 when they were granted the authorization for an official representative by Sultan Hamid.
Unfortunately with the onset of the French Revolution this matter was completely forgotten and in 1803 when Napoleon I tried restabilising the ties and sent forth a counsel, his offer was refused as Oman was then greatly influenced by the British. However all was not lost and in 1807 it was agreed by both parties to sign a French-Omani agreement between Oman and Ile de France; now known as Mauritius.
Though the relationship between both countries was slowly waning they took on a new dimension in 1970 and since then have been growing rapidly. A great example of this is the Omani French Museum in Muscat. A grand palace at one time, the building was gifted by Sultan Assayed to the French Counsel in 1896. In 1992 it was transformed in to a museum that captures the rich historical connection of both countries.
From historical documents to pictures of past ambassadors, costumes worn during the early periods, jewellery that were gifted by both parties as well as those that adorned the visiting French Mademoiselles, furniture, samples of ships and a host of other artefacts are all preserved here, displayed for public viewing. The museum is open Saturday to Thursday from 9am to 1pm. However if you are visiting it between October to March, then it is also open from 4pm to 6pm.
There are also many other interesting places nearby so staying at a close by Muscat hotel is convenient. Millennium Resort Mussanah is a good option. One of the best Oman Muscat hotel, it belongs to the Millennium Hotels and Resorts group that has hotels all over the world.
