10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Oman

Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the challenge of adapting to a new culture. Oman is a country with rich traditions and customs, and as an expat, it's important to be aware of cultural norms to avoid any faux pas. Here are 10 tips to help you navigate Omani culture with respect and ease.

1. Dress Conservatively

When living in Oman, it's important to dress modestly in public. For men, this means avoiding shorts and sleeveless tops, while women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders, arms, and legs. Traditional attire, such as the dishdasha for men and the abaya for women, is widely accepted and can show your respect for local customs.

2. Understand the Importance of Religion

Oman is an Islamic country, and religion plays a significant role in daily life. Be mindful of Islamic practices and holidays, such as Ramadan, when eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited. Additionally, always ask permission before entering a mosque, and remove your shoes before doing so.

3. Use Your Right Hand

In Omani culture, the left hand is considered unclean, so always use your right hand for eating, greeting, and giving or receiving items. This simple gesture is a sign of respect and will be appreciated by your Omani counterparts.

4. Be Cautious with Photography

While Oman offers stunning landscapes and architecture, be cautious when taking photos. It's considered impolite to photograph people without their permission, especially women. Also, avoid taking pictures of government buildings, military sites, and airports.

5. Learn Basic Arabic Phrases

Although many Omanis speak English, learning a few basic Arabic phrases can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture. Simple greetings like "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you) and "Shukran" (thank you) can help build rapport with locals.

6. Respect Personal Space

Omanis value personal space, so maintain a respectful distance during conversations. Physical contact, such as hugging or kissing, is reserved for close friends and family of the same gender. A polite handshake is usually the appropriate greeting, especially when meeting someone for the first time.

7. Be Mindful of Your Gestures

Some hand gestures that are considered benign in other cultures may be offensive in Oman. For example, avoid pointing your foot at someone or showing the sole of your shoe, as this is considered disrespectful. Also, be cautious with hand gestures and avoid using any that could be misinterpreted.

8. Show Respect to Elders

Elders are highly respected in Omani society. Always greet them first and show deference in conversations. Offering your seat to an older person or assisting them in any way is seen as a sign of good manners and respect.

9. Be Patient and Avoid Public Displays of Anger

Omanis are known for their hospitality and calm demeanor. It's important to be patient and avoid public displays of anger or frustration. If you find yourself in a difficult situation, remain calm and try to resolve the issue politely and discreetly.

10. Accept Hospitality Graciously

When invited to an Omani home, it's customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruits. Accept any food or drink offered to you, as refusing can be seen as impolite. Remember to always express your gratitude for the hospitality shown to you.

We hope these tips will help you navigate the cultural landscape of Oman with confidence and respect. If you have any personal experiences or additional advice, feel free to share your opinions on Expat Exchange's Oman forum. Your insights can be invaluable to fellow expats adjusting to life in this beautiful country.

Expats Confess Their Cultural Faux Pas in Oman

"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Oman. It is considered impolite to show public displays of affection, so it is best to avoid kissing or hugging in public. It is also important to dress modestly, covering arms and legs, and to avoid wearing revealing clothing. It is also important to respect religious sites and to avoid taking photographs of people without their permission. Additionally, it is important to be aware of local laws and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion," commented an expat living in Oman.

"I ate a banana in front of a very hungry Omani in the middle of Ramadan. I was shocked when I found out that I'd totally forgotten about Ramadan but the Omani was very nice about it," said an expat in Salalah.