5 Omani Traditions You Must Know - Armed with politeness

Oman is a country rich in culture and tradition. One of the most important Omani traditions is the prohibition of shoes inside homes. This tradition is based on the belief that shoes are dirty and should not be brought into the home, where they can contaminate the cleanliness of the space. So, if you are ever invited into an Omani home, be sure to take your shoes off before entering! These activities in Oman are for homes mostly, you can wear your shoes in your own room at Oman Hotels if that is what you are used to.

If you are a visitor to Oman, it is customary for your Omani host to offer you coffee as a gesture of hospitality. Often, the coffee will be served in a small cup with no handle called a finjan, along with dates or sweets. Coffee is usually strong and bitter, so sugar is often added to balance out the flavours. When partaking in this tradition, it is important to remember that the coffee should always be drunk from the right hand. If you are left-handed, you should still drink the coffee with your right hand as it is considered impolite to use your left hand for eating or drinking in Oman. Another thing to keep in mind when enjoying this tradition is that it is considered rude to refuse coffee when it is offered to you. Even if you don't normally drink coffee or don't like the taste, it is best to at least take a sip out of politeness.

When visiting in Oman, it is customary to bring a gift for the host. Perfume is a popular choice of gift, as it is both luxurious and practical. It is important to choose a perfume that is appropriate for the occasion and the relationship between the gift-giver and the recipient. For example, a more expensive perfume would be appropriate for a close friend or family member, while a less expensive perfume would be suitable for a casual acquaintance. When giving perfume as a gift, it is also customary to present it in a beautiful bottle or box. This adds to the luxury of the gift and shows that you have put thought into choosing the perfect present.

In Oman, it is customary to greet others with the phrase "As-salamu alaykum" which means "Peace be upon you". Asking "What's up?" Is considered rude and is not commonly used.

In Oman, it is considered rude to speak directly to a woman who is not a close friend or relative. If you need to say something to a woman, you should address your comments to her husband, father, brother, or other male relatives. In some cases, it may be acceptable to speak to a woman through a third party. For example, if you are at a social gathering and want to speak to a woman you do not know well, you could ask another guest to introduce you. When speaking to a group of women, it is best to avoid sensitive topics such as religion or politics. It is also important to be aware of body language and avoid any physical contact with the women.