Old Ways in a Changing Space: The Issue of Camel Pastoralism in Dhofar

Abstract

In the Arabian Peninsula, the Dhofar region is rich in camels. This national wealth has always been administered by traditional nomadic pastoral management, which must have evolved in Oman with the introduction of camels as domesticates in prehistoric times. In this region, camels have always depended on the free grazing system which is governed by tribal territoriality. Today, Dhofar is experiencing an extensive process of development. Land value has increased immensely, to the extent that it cannot be used for camel pastoralism. Furthermore, traditional camel management has always been directed to meet requirements of a subsistence economy. It has never managed to convert to the organization of political economy. This paper intends to raise the alarm that national wealth is endangered by certain challenges. The paper proposes certain ideas that might assist in safeguarding and investing in a national asset.