The port of Dhufar in present-day Oman, located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian peninsula, was a famous ancient maritime trading center where merchants from many countries converged. During the 19th year of the Yongle reign period (1424 AD), ambassadors from Dhufar visited China in the company of envoys from Aden and La'sa. With the strengthening of friendly relations between Dhufar and China and the assistance of the King of Dhufar, Zheng He and his delegation were able to undertake extensive trade with the populace.

　　During this time, the people of China and those of many overseas countries were eager to do more business together. The government of Dhufar supported this, calling upon the populace to trade with Zheng He's delegation. The Chinese delegation primarily offered practical items such as silks and porcelain in exchange for spices and medicines such as frankincense, aloe, and peony. From the type of goods offered to the bartering methods employed, this qualified as grassroots, rather than official, trade.