The Land of Frankincense

For over 5000 years frankincense was considered to be Arabia’s most precious commodity, rivalling gold, silk and gems in value and it was harvested from the Boswellia Tree that grows here in the Dohar region of Oman.

Harvested just before the Khareef season (monsoon) begins, frankincense is acquired when the tree reaches maturity and an incision is made in its bark, allowing its milky white sap to bleed and crystallise.

Still used in important ceremonies including religious festivals, frankincense also remains a symbol of Omani hospitality.

Its fragrant resin is today burned throughout the Sultanate to welcome guests and its aromatic oil is one of the primary ingredients used in Oman’s legendary perfume, Amouage – one of the most valuable scents in the world.

There is a souk (market) here in Salalah where you can buy all grades of frankincense and we had fun talking to the ladies and learning all about how to burn frankincense to release the lovely aroma.

Needless to say we came away armed with lighters, burners, charcoal, oils and resin ready to recreate the fragrance on board Blue Magic.