Ethnic group
The Kumzari or Kumzar (کومزاري) are an Iranian ethnic group[citation needed] native to the Musandam peninsula in northern Oman. They speak the Kumzari language along with the Shihuh tribe who are Arabs unlike the Kumzar. They are traditional fisherman.[4]
History
The Kumzari people are said to have been a Persian-related people who travelled to the northern coast of Oman 500 years ag,[5] with one source claiming they are ethnic Lurs.[5][better source needed][6][failed verification]
Other sources say that the Kumzari originated from the Azd tribe who came to Yemen in the third to fifth centuries AD.[7] The village was ruled by a shaikh who was elected by the Kumzari and Shihuh people of Kumzar.[8] Many Kumzari shaikhs married people outside of their village like Labtiab.[9]
Traditions
Kumzari men perform traditional dances like the Dandana which is a type of dance during Kumzari weddings.[10] They are regarded as semi-nomads and travel to the village of Khasab for trade.[11] They have been regarded as "brave fighters" when it comes to combat.[12]
Language
The Kumzari people have spoken the Kumzari language, which has been designated as an Iranian language, but has a huge Arabic influence as well as Portuguese, English, and Balochi.[13][14]
References
