Tips for Better Cultural Acquaintance with Oman
Many people have a very vague idea about the Sultanate of Oman, often not knowing its approximate location or even confusing it with Jordanian capital Amman. This Arabian country is not a business or tourism hub, though recently it began promoting tourism, getting more and more attention.
With its breathtaking coastline, desert and mountains, rich preserved historical and cultural heritage, and incredibly friendly people, Oman is a real gem. Take a chance to discover Oman and its culture to find a beautiful treasure you never knew existed.
Given the country’s relative closeness, there are cultural and etiquette things you have to be aware of.
Be a careful photographer
Don’t hesitate to capture the astonishing nature and sights in Oman, but avoid photographing locals, especially women. Ask for a consent if you wish, cause otherwise it will be seen as a very disrespectful act. Also, taking photos of the government and military organizations is prohibited.
Dress modestly
This rule applies to the majority of Arab countries. Cover your breast, knees, and shoulders, and don’t wear tight or transparent clothes. Women should take double care to dress appropriately to avoid unpleasant stares, but they don’t need to wear a headscarf (unless they visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque). Also, foreign men and women are not recommended to wear traditional Omani attire.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, Oman
Greetings
When it comes to greeting locals, the norm would be a handshake. Do not touch or offer a hand to the opposite sex unless they offer theirs to you first.
Say “yes” to coffee, but with caution
Coffee (qahwa) occupies a very special place in Omani culture. If you happen to be a guest in Omani house, the hosts will serve coffee to you as soon as you enter. What you should do is say yes with no doubt! Omanis add spices such as cardamom and saffron to coffee, which makes the taste unique and delicious. However, watch your caffeine intake, as Omani coffee is always strong. A gesture that will inform your hosts that you don’t want more coffee is rotating the little mug right to left a few times.
Eating etiquette
Interested to know more? Read the full article on MeetnGreetMe blog:
https://meetngreetme.com/blog/tips-for-cultural-acquaintance-with-oman/
