Oman Releases New Book on Historic Oman-Russia Relations

The National Records and Archives Authority (NRAA) of Oman has published a new book titled "Oman-Russia Relations in the Nineteenth Century AD – A Documentary Study Based on Russian Archives." This work is part of NRAA’s mission to strengthen Omani and Arab academic resources with carefully documented historical sources and support research into Oman’s rich diplomatic history.

The book is based on 2,852 Russian documents, including official letters, reports, memoranda, maps, and photographs. It provides a detailed account of Oman-Russia relations in the 19th century, highlighting the strategic importance of Omani ports in global trade and maritime activities.

Structured into three main chapters, the study traces the development of diplomatic and trade ties, examines Russian activities in the Gulf region, and describes Oman’s political, economic, and social structure during that era. The book also includes over 50 rare archival records from Russia, along with detailed indices to help scholars navigate the material.

Dr. Hamad bin Mohammed Al Dhoyani, Chairman of NRAA, said the work shows Oman’s strong historical role and the value of Russian sources in understanding international relations. The book’s author, Dr. Dharar Mohammed Fadhl Al Mawla, added that it took a decade to translate and verify these documents, providing fresh perspectives on Oman’s history beyond British and French sources.

Dr. Ahlam bint Hamoud Al Jahwari, Director Specialist for Documentary Studies, noted that the publication introduces Russian archival material to Arabic-speaking scholars for the first time. The study of 1792–1917 highlights Oman’s growing political and economic bonds with Russia and its key position in historic trade networks.

This book offers scholars a new lens to study Oman’s international history and strengthens the authority’s goal of making global historical records accessible to the Arab research community while meeting high academic standards.