Is Oman a Good or Bad Country - Etiquette and Culture in Oman

I recently travelled to Oman and not knowing what to expect, was pleasantly surprised. Visiting Oman is a very Arabian experience. It offers a blend of ancient traditions, mountainous landscapes, and welcoming people. It is often overshadowed by its flashy neighbour - Dubai. Oman however, is authentic and relaxing. From receiving my tourist visa and going through immigration to getting to my hotel, visiting a place nestled on the Arabian Peninsula was a straightforward process.

Oman is officially called the Sultanate of Oman, sharing land borders with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. You will find that in Oman, there are several UNESCO-listed sites, ancient forts, which I was so happy to visit in Nizwa, and ancient watchtowers dotted over rugged mountains which straddle the capital city of Muscat. At the bottom of these mountains, you will find wadis, seasonal riverbeds that are bone dry in the summer and flowing with fast-running water in winter.

You will notice that the streets are very well-policed, with drivers who are respectful and polite, and they only use the horn to warn other cars very kindly. The downside is that taxis are looking for quick work, and while walking on the sidewalks, you will be tooted non-stop, which can be annoying. Because of the intense heat, Omanis and expats only drive, and do not walk the streets. The Omani national transport company runs on time and  is rider friendly, however it is not extensive, therefore many places are dependent on taxis. Roads are immaculate, with no animals roaming around except an occasional cat. It’s a real change from living in India, as I have been for several months now.

People of Oman - Omanis
Before you leave the airport, you will be met by traditionally dressed Omani men wearing perfectly ironed white ‘dishdasha’ and a hat known as ‘kumma’. I found men respectful and happy to help if asked; otherwise, it was business as usual. I found that when the male Omani tour guide spoke, he chose to talk to men in the group; however, their words and information imparted to everyone. 

Omani women are beautiful, take pride in dressing and looking good. They are always accompanied by family or friends. Most will wear a black head scarf with an abaya in the city areas. Also, there are different combinations of modest dressing and wearing the traditional mask. For the traveller modest clothing is also accepted which can be in the form of T-shirt, jeans, joggers or long sleeved top and pants.
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The Omanis Culture
Omanis are a very family-orientated culture where the family unit is traditionally patriarchal. They have large families in which the men carry the most authority. The women are the caretakers and responsible for looking after the family. Women are essential to society today and can work and drive, despite Oman’s history regarding such matters. 

Omanis are renowned for their hospitality. The concept of wasta-social connections emphasises building relationships and treating guests with respect. A friendly smile and a cup of kahwa, Omani light coffee, not to be confused with Turkish coffee, which is heavier. Tea is called ‘Karak’ and is a mixture of milk, cardamon, and black tea. As an accompaniment, I was to have, now a clear favourite, date dipped in tahini, which tingled the taste buds– salty and sweet all in one bite.

The Omani spirit continues in the healthy treatment of workers from countries such as the Philippines, Pakistan, India and Bangladesh. The Filipino receptionist at the hotel at which I had stayed, described her life in Dubai, where she worked six days a week, and life was extremely hectic. She moved to Oman following the recommendation of a friend. She found that life was far more relaxing in Oman, where she received the weekends off, and Omanis employers were laid back and respectful.

Do's and Don'ts in Oman
As an Islamic Sultanate, certain etiquette and protocols are observed. For instance, during Ramadan, it is prohibited by law to eat, drink, smoke, play loud music, or dance in public places during daylight hours, applicable to both Muslims and non-Muslims, with penalties for non-compliance. Moreover, discussing any aspect of the Sultan's personal life is illegal in Oman and is considered inappropriate in conversation. 

One anecdote from a fellow traveller illustrates this cultural sensitivity; she recounted being asked by Omani citizen to delete a photo she inadvertently took at the airport. Additionally, public displays of affection are uncommon among Omanis and discouraged among other nationals.

Oman Food and Cuisine
Omani cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavours, reflecting neighbouring countries' influences and maritime heritage. Delicious fresh seafood or smoked dishes, and slow-cooked stews, infused with fragrant spices are on most menus. A typical Omani day will consist of bread and egg in the morning, and the main meal will be lunch, which is rice and meat, which would be chicken, beef or goat. Evening, dips, dal, vegetables, or salad are served in the evening. Flavours are delicate and well-balanced. The consumption of alcohol and pork is prohibited, and cleanliness before and after meals is practised, as hands are used to eat with, rather than a fork, knife, or a spoon.

Oman's beauty extends far beyond its vast deserts, I was reliably told that on school holidays, families from Muscat will migrate to the fertile plains of Salalah, which offer a verdant escape during the monsoon season. Those who live in the surrounding Muscat will find their way into the city to experience its excellent malls and Western-influenced restaurant scene. One interesting thing I found in the malls of Oman, selling of fragrances and incense is very popular. The air is infused with the distinct scents of smell frankincense, oud, bakhoor. 

 A recommendation when coming to Muscat is to spend time at the Oman Museum. It helps you to understand more deeply what has shaped the Omani people to the modern day. After viewing the museum and palace, then get back on the local air-conditioned bus to view Muscat’s clean coastline meets the road. To swim and snorkel with beautiful sea creatures such as dolphins and whales, take the bus and ferry to Omanis islands.

Article Published in Etiquipedia.blogspot.com