The Al Busaidi family, or Al Bu Said dynasty, has ruled Oman since 1744, founded by Imam Ahmad bin Said who expelled Persian invaders and unified the nation. Spanning over 280 years, the family led expansions to Zanzibar, modernized under Sultan Qaboos, and now thrives under Sultan Haitham bin Tariq.
The House of Al Busaidi traces its origins to Ahmad bin Said al-Busaidi, elected Imam in 1744 after liberating Oman from Persian occupation. As governor of Sohar, he repelled invaders, fostering unity and trade prosperity across the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean regions. His descendants transformed Oman into a maritime power, ruling the Omani Empire, Sultanate of Muscat and Oman, and Zanzibar until 1964.
The dynasty navigated British alliances, Wahhabi threats, and internal revolts, peaking under Said bin Sultan (1806–1856) with vast East African influence. In 1970, Qaboos bin Said overthrew his father in a bloodless coup, launching Oman's Renaissance through infrastructure, education, and economic diversification. Today, Haitham bin Tariq, who succeeded Qaboos in 2020, upholds this legacy from Al Alam Palace.
Key Highlights:
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Founded by Ahmad bin Said in 1744 after defeating Persians at Sohar.
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Expanded to Zanzibar and East Africa; split post-1856.
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Qaboos bin Said (1970–2020) modernized Oman with oil-driven growth.
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Current Sultan Haitham bin Tariq continues stability and reforms.
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Symbolizes 281 years of sovereignty, celebrated as National Day.
Sources: Wikipedia (Al Bu Said dynasty), Britannica, Oman News Agency