Exploring the Social Customs

What follows is some useful advice and information about the local customs and traditions of an Omani society. It is worth taking note of these pointers to guarantee respect for the culture and to avoid an embarrassing moment. It is strongly advised for you to consult our 'Teachanywhere special feature: avoiding cultural gaffes in the Middle East' and our new 'Teachanywhere special feature: Ramadan rules'.

The Sultanate of Oman is 4 hours ahead of UTC (Co-ordinated Universal Time) and there is no summer time saving. During summer when there is a change in the UK, for example, the time difference is just 3 hours. Social hours vary in Oman – some people get up early, some stay up late, and some do both because they have a nap in the afternoon! Such standard split shifts are from 9am to 1pm and from 4pm to 8pm. The weekend is now Friday and Saturday. Government offices are open from 7.30am to 2.30pm. Banking hours are usually 8am to 12.30pm. A lot of private sector businesses are open all day to conform to western practice. Smaller shops and souks are closed in the afternoon.

The distinctive culture of Oman is influenced by Islamic traditions and regional heritage. Islam is more than just a religion; it is a way of life that governs everyday events from what to wear to what to eat. Due to Oman's position on many historical trade routes, the local citizens have been exposed to different cultures for centuries and as a result are tolerant, welcoming and friendly.

Foreigners are free to practice their own religion, alcohol is served in hotels and restaurants and the dress code is relatively liberal. Women face little discrimination and contrary to the policies of some neighboring countries are able to drive and walk around unescorted. Among the most highly-prized virtues are courtesy and hospitality, and visitors are sure to be charmed by the genuine warmth and friendliness of the people. Visitors are generally able to roam freely in the souks and villages, and may be pleasantly surprised by genuine offers of coffee. As you travel deeper into the interior the people become more conservative but no less hospitable. The forbidding mountains and formidable deserts have kept them isolated from external influences so a foreign face becomes a welcome diversion!

The official language of the country is Arabic, but English is widely spoken. Other commonly heard languages include Urdu, Baluchi, Swahili, Hindi and other Indian dialects. Most road signs, shop signs and menus are in both Arabic and English. The further into the interior you go, the more Arabic you will find, both spoken and on street signs. Arabic isn't the easiest language to pick up or to pronounce, but if you learn the usual greetings, you're more likely to receive a warmer welcome. Most Omanis appreciate the effort and will help you with your pronunciation. Just give it a try, it certainly won't hurt and it definitely helps when dealing with officials of any sort.

Religion is Islam and in Oman they follow the moderately conservative sect of Ibadhism.

Some Omanis are Sunni Muslims and live primarily in Sur and the surrounding areas, and in Dhofar. The Shia minority live in the Muscat-Mutrah area. The basis of Islam is the belief that there is only one God and that the Prophet Mohammed, May peace be upon him, is his messenger.

There are five pillars of the faith which all Muslims must follow: the Profession of Faith, Prayer, Charity, Fasting and Pilgrimage. The religion should not really affect your daily lives but you need to be aware of the practice and exercise tolerance, understanding and respect.

Call for prayer occurs 5 times a day broadcast by the loudspeakers on the minarets of each mosque. If a Muslim cannot get to a mosque in time they either pray where they are or pray at some other time in the day. It is disrespectful to stare at people praying or to walk across their prayer mats.

An aspect of Islam that will alter your daily routine is that of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.