For over 5,000 years Oman has enjoyed a lively exchange of goods, people and ideas with other civilisations. This gallery, arranged in thematic sections, examines the historical ties between Oman and other nations from their origins through to the 14th century AH/20th century CE.

Included are timelines, changing displays of documents, and a collection of objects that tell the story of key events and personalities in this history, and show how the cosmopolitan character of the Omani people has been shaped by cross-cultural connections. Maps, travelogues and old documents further track the course of cultural, scientific, trade and diplomatic relations between Oman and its neighbouring nations, as well as Africa, the Indian subcontinent, the Far East, Europe and North America.