Joanna James
Oman is a great country to visit as it is fresh, vibrant and different. The Omani people are friendly and warm and welcoming. However, you must maintain a sense of respect and admiration of the people and their traditions so here are some things you should never do when you are in Oman.
The people of Oman are Muslim and dress conservatively. So, modesty is very important. When you are in Oman make sure that you adhere to their ideals and not dress in a way that shows a lot of skin. The people of Oman wear their traditional clothes outside of the home. Men wear the tribal dishdasha which is a very long white cloth that extends to their ankles. They also wear a cap called a kumah. Women wear black abayas and colourful dresses with matching scarves underneath. Visitors are also welcome to wear the traditional dress though it is not a rule.
Omani people are very friendly and welcoming to foreigners. They even have special places called Sabla or Majilis were Omanis gather to talk whether it is about good news, gossip or sad news. As a result, they don't really shout and talk on the streets so be sure to respect that when you are out and about with your friends and family. Don't make unnecessary noise and disturb their peace.
When engaging in activities in Oman don't drink alcohol or do drugs in public spaces. As a Muslim country, the Omani people are very conservative and adhere to Arabic culture where both of the above is strictly prohibited. Alcohol is available in Oman but in hotel chains such as Oman Hotels. If you would like to partake in alcohol, do so in the bars and pubs within the hotels. Taking drugs which have not been prescribed is considered demeaning and is frowned upon so refrain from bringing anything of this nature into the country.
The mosques in Oman are places of worship and should be treated accordingly even if you are only visiting to look at the beautiful artwork and architecture. Oman is home to many beautiful mosques, and they allow non-Muslims in on tours in some of these places of worship. When entering make sure to take off your shoes, dress in a way that your shoulders and legs are covered. In the case of women, wear a shawl over your head. Do not make loud noises or let your kids run about shouting.
The Omani heritage is one that spans centuries and has weathered all kinds of animosity and trails to still be practised today. The people are proud of their traditions and take pride in their struggles and accomplishments so always be accepting of local traditions and their culture and adhere to it respectfully whenever possible.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a pas...
