Ibri is the capital of Al-Dhahirah governate in Oman. For centuries, it has been a strategic crossroad between Oman and the other Gulf States. It is located at a nearly equal distance from Muscat, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. Being midway between Nizwa, the ancient capital of Oman, and the strategic Al Ain/Buraimi Oasis, Ibri has a long history of being a trade route for Bedouin caravans that would find water and shelter in its oases and numerous wadis that provide life-giving water. In fact, the name "Ibri" means the "place of crossing". Roads through the mountains have now made stronger connections with Sohar, a major port on Oman's Gulf coast. Given its strategic location and continuing in the tradition of being a crossroads, the Omani government has recently built a major road from Ibri that heads off to Saudi Arabia, connecting the two countries.
With modern development, Ibri is growing into a major commercial center in Oman with an ever increasing population - over 100,000. It is now the 4th or 5th largest city in Oman. There are colleges, hospitals, schools, and a tight connection with the oil industry. Fahud, where the first oil wells in Oman were drilled, lies in the wilaya (or province) of Ibri.
The Omanis of Ibri come from important Beduoin (nomadic) and Hadhar (settled) tribes known for their friendliness and hospitality. They are strongly grounded in their traditions and yet are open to new developments as they arise. They have a quiet pride about their city and are anticipating a bright future that showcases their traditions.
1.Jesus says: "Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life." (John 4:14). Pray that Ibri would drink and find new life in Jesus.
2.There are few, if any, workers in Ibri as of today. Pray that the Lord of the Harvest would send workers to Ibri. Also pray for the Lord to inspire Indian and Filipino expats who already live in Ibri to proclaim the gospel to their Omani neighbors.
3.Ibri is a crossroads city. Pray that the people of Ibri would stand by the roads and look and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is and then to walk in it and find rest for their souls (Jer 6:16).
