Omani military history has a glorious past and present, one full of heroism and bravery. Throughout history, Omanis have fought invaders and were able to defeat them, and preserve the Omani identity and the independence of their country. Oman was subjected to several foreign invasions, perhaps some of the most notable of which were the various Persian incursions. As long ago as the 6th century B.C., Malik bin Fahm Al-Azdi was able to expel the Persian occupiers from Oman. However, the Persian invasions of Oman reoccurred during the Bani Al-Julandi, Al-Yahmadi, Al-Nabhani and Al-Ya’arubi dynasties, until Imam Ahmad bin Said Al-Busaidi was able to drive them permanently out of Oman in the 18th century A.D. In the 1st century of the Hijri, under the rule of Abdul Malik bin Marwan Al-Julanda, Oman was subjected to another foreign invasion by Al-Hajjaj bin Yusuf, the ruler of Iraq in the Umayyad era. He was able to occupy a large part of Oman. However, the Omanis put up a strong and sustained resistance, and were able to reclaim the whole of Oman during the reign of Imam Al-Julanda bin Masoud in the 2nd century A.H. In the 15th century A.D., at the end of the Bani Nabhan dynasty, Oman was invaded by the Portuguese who managed to occupy the northern and eastern coasts of Oman. Omanis continued to resist the Portuguese occupation until 1064 A.H./1652 A.D., when under the Ya’ruba dynasty, the Portuguese were finally expelled from the country by Imam Sultan bin Saif bin Malik Al-Ya’rubi. He pursued the Portuguese along the coasts of the region, into the Indian Ocean and on to East Africa, winning a major and decisive victory. The defeat of the Portuguese was a significant moment in Oman’s history, demonstrating Omani military capability in that era, and marking a turning point in the region. During the 19th and 20th centuries, Oman was subjected to conflicts of another kind, namely revolutions and internal secessionist movements, in addition to external attempts of invasion that continued until the last quarter of the 20th century. The Sultanate of Oman finally achieved internal stability in 1975, during the reign of His Late Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said- may Allah rest his soul in peace.
Joining the Sultan’s Armed Forces, and being part of the corps of the nation’s defenders who are tasked with protecting its borders, territorial integrity, security and stability is an honour for every loyal citizen who faithfully serves his homeland. The various branches and formations that constitute the Sultan’s Armed Forces have transformed it into one of a number of armies in today’s world known for their efficiency, effectiveness and combat readiness. Throughout history, its brave men have been known for their discipline, self-sacrifice and altruism which have been the subject of enduring epic tales that describe their valiant patriotism in the defense of their homeland. Today the Sultan's Armed Forces are well-trained and equipped with the latest weaponry that enables them to perform their patriotic tasks in the service of the homeland. The distinction of serving in the military does not only mean that a person has become an active member of the national defence force, but goes beyond this and endows this person with the qualities of a dedicated, hard-working and ambitious soldier. The theoretical, practical and character-building skills acquired by a soldier during military life make him distinct among his peers, looked up to by all and treated with respect and appreciation. Fellow citizens, by joining the Sultan’s Armed Forces, you will be able to help your family and your country, and become the helping and reassuring hand in times of man-made, or natural disaster.
Al-Shafaq Club
The Ministry of Defence and the Sultan's Armed Forces are keen to provide their members with leisure amenities and a level of comfort through the creation and provision of clubs, facilities and services. Al–Shafaq Club is one such example, and provides a number of facilities and services to the officers and family members of the Ministry of Defence and the Sultan's Armed Forces. The club web page is intended to acquaint club members and their families with the various facilities and services on offer as well as the programme of educational and social events. Members are encouraged to kindly access the site to view the amenities, learn about upcoming events and make reservations.
