Greetings
In Oman, greetings are an important part of the culture, and it is considered good manners to greet people when arriving or departing. Greetings are essential to show respect and that you care about the other person.
Common greetings in Oman include salaam, as-salamu alaykum, and namaste. It is important to wait for the other person to finish their greeting before responding so that both parties can share their greetings properly.
Traditional Omani Greetings
Greetings are essential in Omani culture, and the traditional Omani greeting may differ depending on who you are speaking to. For example, greeting someone of higher status or authority differs from greeting an acquaintance or stranger. When meeting someone, it is important to stand, if physically possible, and avoid offering a handshake until the other person initiates it.
In Arabic cultures, people often address elders and those senior in rank before others present. Often two people greet each other with a simple sentence such as “Peace be upon you,” followed by a reply of either “And peace be upon you” or simply “Peace.”
In more formal settings such as meetings or large social gatherings, handshakes with this greeting are typical when speaking to those with whom one is acquainted.
The traditional Omani greeting between males involves a light handshake combined with pressing one’s nose to the cheeks of the other person in saying “Yaroo-malakoom ya saab.” The same might occur between women as well though this is dependent on their relationship status: close friends or family members will typically embrace instead of sharing a light handshake.
When introducing oneself, use your full name and title; if not known, provide your first name and surname. It is polite to introduce latecomers while beginning conversation with others who have already arrived before newcomers join the gathering.
Handshakes and Body Language
When greeting someone in Oman, a handshake and/or exchanging pleasantries is customary. Respect for elders is important; therefore, if a person wishes to greet an elder, they can execute a slight nod along with the handshake. It is also good etiquette for the younger person to wait for their elders to initiate the handshake.
During communication, it is equally vital to be aware of body language. While men often stand close together when conversing and may even touch each other on the shoulder or arm as part of an expressive conversation, it is not traditional for women to act this way. Raising your voice in Oman is seen as impolite and can be viewed as aggressive behavior. Furthermore, explicit public displays of affection between couples are not accepted; this implies both physical contact and verbal presentations of love or sentiment, such as public declarations made with hand gestures or through speech.
Dressing
Knowing how to dress appropriately in Oman is important to show respect for their culture. Omani citizens dress conservatively, with women wearing loose-fitting clothing covering the arms, legs, and feet. Men usually wear traditional clothing such as thobes, which are long robes with long sleeves, and may wear headscarves. Traditional dress is considered respectful in most parts of Oman.
Traditional Omani Clothing
Traditional Omani clothing is modest and usually consists of a long shirt or tunic, called a dishdasha, covering the entire body. It is worn with plain white or cream scarves and ankle-length trousers for men. For women, the dishdasha comes with a headscarf called a lihaf that covers their hair and ears and an ankle-length skirt. Although the traditional dress is still worn in many parts of Oman, more modern attire has become increasingly popular in larger cities.
Men wear traditional items like jalabiyyas – long kaftan-like robes – during weddings and other festive occasions. Women often accessorize their lihafs with colorful headpieces, known as mazhar, decorated with flowers, jewels, coins, and other embellishments. Both men and women may also wear traditional silver jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets adorned with precious stones such as turquoise or coral. These items are sometimes gifted to mark special occasions like births or major milestones like graduation from college.
Western Clothing
Western clothing is expected to respect the culture in a more traditional and rural part of Oman. However, respecting local customs and beliefs is important, even in cities and towns. For example, tops should have sleeves and cover the body; shorts should reach knee-length, and skirts should reach the ankle. It is also common courtesy to remove hats when entering religious places or someone’s home.
When away from coastal tourist sites, women are also expected to wear a headscarf or shayla (long-length scarf) over their hair at all times. It is usually safe to wear more revealing Western fashion in private homes or upscale restaurants. When planning international trips, women should pack a selection of modest clothing for different locations on the journey:
- Tops with sleeves that cover the body
- Shorts that reach knee-length
- Skirts that go the ankle
- A headscarf or Shayla
Eating
Eating is an integral part of Omani culture and expresses friendship and hospitality. Therefore, when visiting Oman, it is important to learn Omani etiquette concerning dining. Omanis generally enjoy a variety of traditional dishes, and it is customary to eat with your hands. To demonstrate respect, it is important to use the right hand and not the left hand when eating. It is also polite to use a spoon when offered.
Traditional Omani Cuisine
Traditional Omani cuisine is based on both a strong fishing heritage and the availability of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and spices. Agricultural products comprise dates, bananas, lemons, limes, garlic, tomatoes, and onions. Dairy foods like milk and yogurt are commonly consumed. The wide variety of fish range from small mullet to large kingfish. A specialty in Oman is Balaleet – a sweet vermicelli dish flavored with cardamom and sugar that is usually served for breakfast.
Ingredient combinations are essential in traditional cooking techniques. For example:
- Baking often comes with cheese or eggs;
- Slow-cooking usually uses onions and tomatoes as well as spices like cumin;
- Roasting often pairs with herbs such as bay leaves;
- Stir fries are made of whatever toppings the dish requires, such as olives or raisins;
- Pressure cooking relies on ingredients such as garlic and mashed potatoes;
- Sauteing with clarified butter instead of oil is common in cooking some pastries.
Fresh fruits are always served as part of meals or can be enjoyed in juice anytime during the day with meals or snacks.
Omani culture also differs from other Middle Eastern cultures due to its heavy focus on seafood, given its proximity to the Gulf Sea. As a result, many dishes will contain fish or shrimp – particularly those dishes involving rice or lamb curry – which can all make up an Omani meal if served together.
Typical desserts include bint al sahn (a sweet pastry similar to baklava), sheer birinji (rice pudding), khabeesa cakes (semolina cakes), and Umm Ali (pastry layered pudding). A strong coffee culture also features coffee made from locally grown beans blended with cardamom pods for added flavor.
Table Manners
Omani culture revolves around hospitality and respect. There are unspoken rules at the dinner table of Omani etiquette that should be followed while visiting the country.
Table manners at meals in Oman are of great importance due to cultural norms and traditional etiquette, so it is important to understand and follow these customs when eating in this country.
- Greeting: Upon entering a room or joining a meal, it is customary for the most senior guest to greet everyone individually with a handshake or hug if appropriate.
- Serving: The oldest and most respected person at the table is typically served first by all seated at the table, who wait for them to start eating before beginning their meal. It is also polite not to start eating before being invited by someone else present. People generally take only what they need at communal meals rather than filling their plates with too much food all at once – unless they are offered seconds. It is also important to express thanks after completing a meal or anytime food has been served – either with words such as “alhamdulillah” (“thank God”) – or by making eye contact with those who prepared it and expressing thanks inwardly via telepathy.
- Etiquette: Eating utensils such as forks, spoons and chopsticks should be held in your right hand while dining – unless specifically designed otherwise – and all knives should be held in your left hand; please avoid touching others’ plates even if you know them very well! There may be cultural preferences related to seating orientation; usually, everyone at the table faces each other rather than having one fixed orientation (for example: facing east). Also, try not to talk during prayer or when someone else is speaking – maintain good manners throughout! Finally, and very importantly – never refuse an offer of hospitality while traveling in Oman; partaking shows respect that will surely be appreciated by locals and hosts alike!
Social Etiquette
Oman follows many social customs and etiquette, and it’s essential to understand the culture before you visit. Omanis are very friendly and respectful, so it’s important to show appreciation for the culture by following these customs.
This section will cover the basic social etiquette and customs that should be followed when in Oman:
Gift Giving
Gifts should be chosen with care, and wrapping is appreciated. When invited to someone’s home, bringing a present such as flowers, chocolates or a small token is customary. Gifts are opened when received, and if brought to religious sites, they should be small items such as books on Islam or culturally related objects or artwork.
When giving something small like flowers or chocolates at an Omani home, it is essential always to offer the gift with both hands and meet the eyes of the face of the recipient when presenting the gift. In addition, gifts for special occasions such as weddings are an important part of Emirati culture; traditional gifts include gahfiya (embroidered caps), khanjar (traditional daggers), perfumes, and dates.
It is considered rude to ask questions about money and business while gifting in Omani culture; instead, focus on topics such as food, family life, and recreation in conversations with locals. Likewise, it is best to avoid discussing other traditionally sensitive issues, such as politics, religion, and education, in public settings.
Visiting Someone’s Home
Visiting someone’s home is a way to show respect and appreciation, and it is considered impolite in Oman to refuse hospitality. Therefore, when visiting a host’s home, ensure that you arrive on time or slightly earlier than the agreed time. Always keep your footwear off their entrance before entering the house and remember to bring a gift if you are invited for dinner; it is polite to consider the tastes of your host’s family (i.e., flowers, sweets, or chocolates).
As you enter, accept any refreshments offered, but remember not to thank your host until you leave, as this implies that your visit has ended. Also, don’t talk too much about yourself because you may be seen as arrogant or boastful; instead, try talking about general topics such as country, family, etc.
When leaving, thank your hosts for hospitality and express how much you enjoyed their company.
Talking to Strangers
In Oman, personal conversations with those you do not know are discouraged and can be seen as intrusive. Before talking to strangers, it is essential to observe the general atmosphere and avoid questions about age, income, or marital status. It is polite to converse only after mutual consent.
When meeting locals, it is customary to communicate using formal titles such as “Shaykh” or “Sayyid,” followed by their first name or the word ‘bin‘ (father of), then their father’s name. However, when meeting ex-pats and people of foreign nationalities, greeting people more informally is appropriate.
Shaking hands signals respect in Omani culture; however, men generally don’t shake hands with women unless they extend their hands first. Instead, try smiling and nodding your head when talking to strangers – this subtle sign conveys a sign of politeness and understanding that may pave the way for conversation when appropriate.
It’s important not to initiate conversations with strangers about religion; other religious views are not common in Omani culture and can be insulting if not adequately communicated.
Religion
The official religion in Oman is Islam, and most of the population practices it. The Islamic faith plays an important role in Omani culture and forms the basis of the nation’s customs and etiquette. Muslims are expected to practice the Five Pillars of Islam and adhere to the laws and regulations of the country.
Religious events are public holidays, and government offices and most businesses are closed. However, observant Muslims often take part in the daily call to prayer.
Islamic Beliefs
The official religion of Oman is Islam, and most Omanis are Sunni Muslims. The Islamic religion shapes public life in Oman. There are several laws that all residents should be aware of before traveling, such as the fact that it is illegal to practice any other religion in public. In addition, respect should always be shown towards Islamic traditions, beliefs, and practices; this includes ensuring that clothing worn in public is respectful, modest, and appropriate.
Islam has five pillars that form the basis upon which Muslim beliefs and practices are built:
- Shahada (Declaration of Faith): “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is his messenger.”
- Salat (Prayer): Praying five times per day at prescribed times.
- Sawm (Fasting): Abstinence from food, drink, smoking, and sex from dawn until dusk in the holy month of Ramadan.
- Zakat (Alms Giving): Giving 2.5% of your wealth to those less fortunate than you or charity organizations.
- Hajj (Pilgrimage): Make a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in your lifetime if you can afford it financially and physically.
These pillars have shaped the culture within Oman, with locals deeply integrating their faith into every aspect of their lives and respecting each other’s religious practices. As a result, Omani society does not publicly focus on differences between sects or denominations; instead, respect for local customs should prioritize visitors expecting to interact with locals in everyday life situations or attend significant events or holidays such as Eid Al Fitr or Eid Al Adha.
Islamic Holidays
In Oman, Islamic holidays are celebrated, including the ancient festivals of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, as well as the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday. In addition, several modern rituals, such as gift exchanges and ceremonies, such as henna painting, follow Oman’s religious festivities.
Eid al-Fitr, or ‘Festival of Breaking the Fast,’ commemorates the end of the fasting month of Ramadan with large family gatherings for feasting and celebrating. During this holiday, traditional Omani dishes such as Shuwa (meat mixed with aromatic spices, marinated and cooked overnight in an underground oven) and Ma’ari (dumplings made from semolina dough with a savory filling) are served in homes throughout the country. On this day, special garments called Kafeya for men and Bisht for women, which is white draped over a plain dress with intricate gold embroidery, are accompanied by Heilas, a perfume-like attar oil applied behind the earlobes.
Eid al-Adha, or ‘Festival of Sacrifice,’ also known as Greater Eid, marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, during which a week-long celebration occurs when animals are sacrificed, and their meat shared amongst people who obtain their share in one way or another. A sheep or ram may be purchased instead of using an animal given to you, which should not exceed one-year-old age.
The Prophet Muhammad’s birthday occurs on the 12th Rabi I. It is believed that each individual will get good luck for any wishes made on this day. In Muscat, floods and lights adorn government buildings on this special occasion.
Business Etiquette
Oman has traditional cultural customs that must be respected when doing local business. Therefore, it’s important to know the country’s etiquette before meeting with potential business partners. As a visitor, you should dress modestly and display respect to avoid raising cultural sensitivities. Additionally, it is crucial to be punctual and arrive at the scheduled time of the meeting.
Let’s have a look at some of the customs and etiquette surrounding business in Oman:
Business Attire
Business etiquette in Oman is primarily influenced by the country’s culture and Islamic faith. Business attire should be modest, formal, and conservative. Men should wear suits, dress shirts, and ties; women should wear standard business suits. Omani men wear white robes with a headdress called a kummah, but Western-style clothing is also acceptable for business meetings. Women should avoid wearing revealing or tight clothes and opt for more relaxed garments like pantsuits or knee-length skirts instead of traditional dresses.
It is important to remain polite and formal when dealing with Omani businesses. Address people using their full title at the start of conversations before switching to first name address once you’ve established a relationship with them. Make sure to express respect to those in authority. At the same time, physical contact isn’t wrong or frowned upon. In most cases, good manners dictate that it is not necessary or expected between genders. Avoid discussing controversial topics such as politics or religion unless outsiders bring them up first; however, if you do discuss topics like these, be mindful of the language used to avoid offending anyone within your presence.
Business Meetings
Business meetings are an essential part of any successful organization. They are necessary for exchanging opinions and ideas, solving problems, and making decisions as a team. However, a successful meeting requires various complex considerations beyond just the logistics. Therefore, strong business etiquette is an essential element in creating effective, productive, and respectful meetings.
Many aspects of business etiquette should be considered before or during a meeting. Agents of the organization should always arrive at the meeting on time with all pertinent materials prepared in advance. Keeping conversations relevant and avoiding distractions such as cell phone use can create a supportive environment for communication between attendees. Additionally, maintaining direct eye contact and displaying active listening skills can encourage mutual understanding and openness between all participants within the room. Furthermore, keeping discussions clear, concise, and free from judgment can further ensure the success of such meetings.
Good business etiquette is essential to running successful meetings that encourage productive collaboration and promote respect among attendees in the work environment.
Negotiations
Negotiating in Oman is an elaborate and drawn-out process expressing respect for both sides. Therefore, Omanis usually begin negotiations slowly, stressing non-monetary issues such as quality of service, references, and collaboration between the two parties.
When discussing business matters in Oman, it is important to display patience and respect. Be sure not to be too direct or put too much emphasis on money. It is better to start with small talk that shows your interest in their culture. Then, by going step by step, you can complete the negotiations successfully without putting either party in a difficult situation.
Both negotiating parties need to understand their respective positions and intentions during negotiations. Therefore, all terms should be negotiated clearly and presented in writing with copies shared by both sides so everyone can refer to them if needed. It is also essential for each party’s objectives and expectations to be clearly stated beforehand so that all negotiators understand what they are working toward during the negotiation process.
Each party should do its best to keep any promises made during the negotiations, as failure will harm one’s reputation for reliability and integrity. Be prepared for lengthy deliberation before even small changes can be implemented, an agreement can be reached, or a contract signed.