Arab Dhow

Timeline

1. 601–1001Basra–Oman coast · Persian GulfEarly Islamic merchant ships developed the lateen sail and combined coastal-oceanic sailing capabilities on the basis of Persian Gulf and Omani shipbuilding traditions, laying the technical foundation for later dhow hull forms.
2. 1101–1400Calicut–Mombasa route · Malabar–East African coastFrom the 12th to 14th centuries, dhows carried monsoon trade between India's west coast, the Red Sea, and East Africa, transporting spices, cotton cloth, and slaves, with fleet size and sail-handling techniques reaching a medieval peak.
3. 1500Red Sea south of Suez and Oman · OmanAfter European sailing ships entered the Indian Ocean, dhows persisted in regional trade for a long time; traditional wooden shipbuilding skills continued in Oman, Yemen, and elsewhere, with hull forms adjusted according to propulsion and materials.