Abdulaziz Al-Farsi

Oman's 19th century maritime innovator who revolutionized Indian Ocean trade

Abdulaziz bin Sultan Al-Farsi (1817-1889) was an Omani naval architect whose shipbuilding innovations transformed Arabian Sea commerce. As chief engineer of Muscat's shipyards, he designed the Al-Burahni class dhows combining European hull designs with traditional Omani sails. His 1845 patent for the 'double-keel stabilizer' reduced voyage times between Zanzibar and Bombay by 30%, earning him the nickname 'The Sultan of Speed.'

Al-Farsi's 1862 invention of the al-jadwal navigational chart system used star positions and monsoon patterns to create the first accurate Indian Ocean sailing routes. His workshops trained over 500 sailors in celestial navigation, ensuring Omani dominance in the spice and pearl trades until the 1890s.

His Book of Ocean Winds (1878) remains a primary source for traditional navigation techniques. Though overshadowed by European steamships, Al-Farsi's designs inspired the modern dhow revival seen in Dubai's maritime festivals today. His legacy is commemorated on Oman's 500-baisa coin and the annual Al-Farsi Maritime Awards.