Six Things a Tourist Should Not Do in Oman – Insights for First-Time Visitors

In Oman, the culture is rooted in conservative values with a focus on modesty – a reflection of its Islamic traditions. When it comes to clothing, tradition is key both in public and at home. Men often wear the dishdasha, a long robe that can be white or brightly coloured, paired with slippers and the kumah, a traditional cap. Women opt for colourful dresses with matching scarves, usually worn under a black abaya for an extra layer of modesty. You aren't required to wear Omani traditional clothes, but doing so is appreciated. More importantly, everyone is expected to dress conservatively to honour the country's values. This means avoiding revealing outfits. Showing too much skin can be seen as disrespectful. For women, wearing bikinis on the beach is advised against, as it might not align with local norms.

Oman is known for its incredibly warm and welcoming people, who are always keen to make connections with others. At the heart of Omani culture are social spaces called ‘Majilis’ or ‘Sabla,’ where people gather to chat and share news. These gatherings strengthen community bonds and show the importance of togetherness, with Omanis preferring not to hold loud events on the streets to show respect for neighbours and the elderly. Even during celebrations like weddings, the Omanis’ thoughtful nature shines through. Newlyweds are driven to their homes in beautifully decorated cars, but instead of honking in celebration, they use flashing lights to avoid noise. They also make sure not to block any roads, showing a deep respect for peace and consideration in their community. You’re encouraged to respect these practices too, by avoiding loud noises in both public and private spaces.

The Omani culture is influenced by its conservative Muslim and Arabic heritage, where there's a strong focus on living life without alcohol. While you might find alcohol in some Oman Hotels, it's pretty rare to see anyone drinking it out in the open. The same goes for using drugs – it's a big no-no and is seen as really disrespectful to the values that Omanis so cherish.

Mosques hold a special place in Oman. Considered some of the best places to visit in Oman, mosques are places of prayer, learning, and community. These mosques are open to visitors, including non-Muslims. It's extremely important that you respect these sacred spaces when you visit. Before you go in, you'll need to take off your shoes. Dressing appropriately is key; women should cover their heads, and men and women both should wear clothes that are more on the conservative side. Once you’re inside the mosque, keep your voice down and avoid laughing loudly. If you're visiting with kids, help them stay calm and quiet too.

Omani hospitality is legendary and often centres around the tradition of Omani Qahwa, a welcoming gesture that involves sharing traditional Omani cuisine, coffee, and sweets with guests. Omanis love to invite friends, family, and even strangers into their homes. If you're visiting, it's a beautiful gesture to accept these invitations when you can, as it’s bound to make your Omani hosts happy. It's also a common practice for Omanis to give their guests gifts like dates, local delicacies, and aromatic frankincense. Accepting these gifts with gratitude is more than just good manners; it's a way to show you've truly appreciated your visit.

Oman stands out as one of the safest countries in the Middle East. It's not just because of effective law enforcement or strict rules but also due to the deep patriotism ingrained in Omanis. This national pride drives everyone to look out for each other, keeping the country safe and peaceful. In Oman, carrying weapons in public is seen as a threat to safety by both the community and the police. This attitude is a key part of Oman's peaceful nature.