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Oman at Glance:

© Mubashar Ahmad Baig

Oman at Glance:

The Oman has the total land area of 119,500 sq. miles. It is not very populated area and it has total population of about 2.2M. Its capital is Muscat. The people usually know Arabic but English is also understand by the people. The official religion is Islam so visitors have to be careful about their dress. Their national day is 18 November.

Culture

YOUR HOSTS:

Omani nationals all wear national dress. For the men this comprises a long white garment called a dishdasha and a wrapped turban or decorated peakless cap. Women where a variety of long garments, some plain black and others highly decorated. Some women are veiled depending upon tribal custom. Unlike some other Arab countries Omani women take a full part in national life. They are permitted to drive cars and pursue careers in the government and commercial sector on a par with their male colleagues.

ETIQUETTE:

Shaking hands is the usual form of greeting in Oman. When visiting the country it is important that women dress modestly; i.e. mid-length skirts or dresses (below the knee) with long sleeves. Tight-fitting clothes should be avoided as they may cause offense. Shorts should never be worn in public by men or women and beachwear is prohibited anywhere except on the beach. Collecting sea shells, abalones, corals, and turtle eggs is prohibited. Littering is forbidden. Visitors should ask permission before attempting to photograph people or their property. The Omanis are a very polite people and, even when highly offended, will rarely mention it to guests in their country. It therefore behooves all visitors to respect their hosts and be careful not to cause unnecessary offense. DINING OUT. There are a wide variety of restaurants in Oman offering all types of cuisine, including Arabic, Indian, Oriental, European and American dishes. Traditional Omani meals are eaten with the hands, use the right hand only. Should you be invited into an Omani house it is customary to remove one's shoes. Muslim law forbids alcohol, however alcoholic beverages are available in most hotel bars and restaurants where visitors to Oman may drink. It should be noted that many Omanis do not drink alcohol on religious grounds. Visitors are therefore cautioned to be care not to inadvertently cause offense by consuming alcoloh in public.

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