Definition
Frankincense is an aromatic resin harvested from Boswellia trees, particularly Boswellia sacra, which grows in the arid hills of the Dhofar region of southern Oman, as well as parts of Yemen, Somalia, and Ethiopia. Oman has been the most prized source of frankincense for millennia, with the resin traded across ancient trade routes to Mesopotamia, Egypt, Rome, India, and China. The Land of Frankincense archaeological sites in Dhofar are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2000.
Context in Oman
Frankincense harvesting in Dhofar follows ancient methods: the bark of Boswellia sacra is incised with a special knife, and the resin that seeps out is collected after drying for one to two weeks. The highest grade, known as Hojari, comes from trees growing at elevation in the Dhofar mountains and commands premium prices. Frankincense remains culturally central to Omani life, used in homes, mosques, and social gatherings as a fragrance and for its perceived medicinal properties. The modern market extends to essential oils, cosmetics, and wellness products. The Salalah frankincense souq in Al Husn is a major tourist attraction. Conservation efforts focus on protecting Boswellia forests from overgrazing by camels and unsustainable harvesting.
Key Data Points
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Primary species | Boswellia sacra |
| Production region | Dhofar governorate |
| UNESCO inscription | Land of Frankincense, 2000 |
| Highest grade | Hojari (Royal Hojari) |
| Modern uses | Fragrance, essential oils, wellness |
Vision 2040 Connection
Frankincense is a symbol of Oman cultural identity and is featured in Vision 2040 cultural tourism and heritage strategies. The vision supports sustainable harvesting, value-added processing (essential oils, cosmetics), and promotion of frankincense as a premium Omani export brand, connecting ancient heritage to modern economic opportunity.
Further Reading
- [[What is the Khareef Monsoon]]
- [[What is Ibadhi Islam]]
- [[Oman Date Palm Cultivation]]