Culture in Oman: Traditions and Faith

Oman might not be the first country that comes to mind when planning a trip to the Middle East, yet its popularity is growing rapidly.

While neighbouring destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are known for their glitter, glamour, and skyscrapers, Oman follows its own unique path. Here, tradition, hospitality, and a deep connection to the land and nature remain at the heart of everyday life.

When you travel to Oman, you enter a country where traditions are still deeply rooted, yet modern life exists alongside them in a surprisingly harmonious way.

Oman is proud of its own identity

Oman follows its own path, and you notice it immediately when you look around. Instead of towering buildings and huge shopping centres, you’ll find authentic houses, low-rise buildings, and sand-coloured forts that almost blend into the mountain landscape. This is no accident—it’s a deliberate choice to preserve the country’s unique atmosphere. In the streets, men still walk in their traditional white dishdashas, while women often shine in colourful abayas. You hear it in the music, see it in the dance, and taste it in the cuisine. In Oman, tradition is a part of everyday life.

The Hospitable Omanis

In Oman, you won’t have to wait long for someone to strike up a conversation. Often it starts with a smile or a simple “Welcome to Oman.” Before you know it, you’re sitting on a plastic chair in the shade, with a cup of strong cardamom coffee in hand and a few dates on a small plate. People want to know where you’re from, what you think of the country, and they’re happy to tell you about their village or family. Omanis have a natural way of making you feel at ease from the very start.

➔ Taste, feel, and experience Oman! Choose a complete guided tour or create your own itinerary with Wadi Reizen.

Sultan Qaboos: the father of modern Oman

When Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said came to power in 1970, Oman was very different from what it is today. The country was largely isolated from the outside world. Sultan Qaboos opened Oman to trade, diplomacy, and tourism, gradually bringing the country into the modern era. Roads, schools, hospitals, and electricity were established in areas that had never had access before. Yet he always maintained a keen focus on preserving Omani culture. Modernisation yes, but never at the expense of tradition and identity. Under his leadership, Oman grew into a prosperous and proud nation. He also often played a mediating role in Middle Eastern conflicts. During his nearly fifty years as leader, many Omanis saw him as a father figure.

If you want to learn more about Sultan Qaboos and his role in modern Omani history, there are several places in the capital, Muscat, that honour his memory, such as the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Royal Opera House, and the National Museum.

Islam in Oman: respectful and accessible

Oman is an Islamic country; most Omanis follow the Ibadi branch of Islam. This branch emphasises peace, simplicity, and respect for others. As a visitor, you will notice that religion is everywhere: nearly every neighbourhood has a mosque, and the call to prayer sounds several times a day. Yet it never feels intrusive. Visitors are greeted warmly and are given the freedom to go about their own way. When travelling in Oman, it’s important to know and respect local customs:

• Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

• Do not eat, drink, or smoke in public during Ramadan (the Islamic fasting month).

• When visiting a mosque, women should wear a headscarf and clothing that covers the arms to the wrists and the legs to the ankles. Men should wear long trousers and a shirt covering the shoulders.

Islamic holidays

During Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of Breaking the Fast) and Eid al-Adha (the Festival of Sacrifice), public life partly comes to a standstill. Many shops close, families gather together, and meals are enjoyed in abundance. These holidays fall on different dates each year, as does the month of Ramadan.

It’s a good idea to check the dates in advance, as it’s more enjoyable if shops and restaurants are open during your trip.

Request a personalised travel proposal today and discover Oman like never before.

CONTACT