National traditions of Oman. Habits, mentality and the way of living

Arabs make up the majority of Oman’s population. East Africa has made a great impact on the ethnicities that live in the country, but descendants of Bedouins and East Africans are considered Arabs in the country. Iranian Baloch tribe do not consider themselves Arabs. Besides them, such ethnicities as Indians, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani live in Oman. The country has become home to people of different races, but tensions between different ethnic groups and races are very rare. Arabian is the official language of Oman, and all people in the country speak it. There are also groups that speak Urdu, Balochi, and Hindu. Locals learn English as a universal language, and many are fluent speakers of this language. Almost everyone in Oman can speak at least basic English. Dialects of Arabian are different from region to region.

Ibadism, a school of Islam, is the official religion in Oman. The majority of Omanis consider themselves Ibadis. The rest of the country’s population is Muslims of different schools of Islam. A small part of the population practice Hinduism and other religions. There are many mosques in Oman, and Muslims visit them regularly. The majority of Omanis are educated. Tolerance, friendliness, and politeness are the main traits of the national character. However, some Omanis might be a bit proud. For example, they can feel offended and refuse actively a job that they consider “dirty”, for example, laying bricks. According to locals, if they can pay someone to do such a job, there is no need for them to do it.

Very religious Omanis can have a bad opinion on western technologies, thinking that the progress of developed countries is based on the lack of moral and faith. Nevertheless, Oman is quite a well-developed country, and younger people are usually free of these prejudices. Many travelers do not think of Oman as of a travel destination, so Omanis usually do not wait for tourists and do not change their lifestyle and habits for vacationers. This means that tourists who decide to visit this country must observe certain rules that are common for Islamic countries. As a rule, local people do not correct tourists because of politeness, but breaking some rules is considered offensive and can potentially lead to imprisonment. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Rude and aggressive behavior in public places is simply unacceptable unless a tourist wants to pay a fine. Women cover their head, and everyone completely covers their legs with clothing. Arms must be covered at least until elbows. Men shake hands when meeting others, and sometimes they can kiss each other on the cheek. After a handshake, an Omani can put his right hand on the region of the heart. This way local people express their respect and happiness about the meeting. Women greet each other the same way. Men and women do not touch each other, but a woman can stretch her hand covered with a long sleeve for a handshake. Omanis try to avoid unpleasant situations, so they always try to cool down everyone and do their best in escaping potential disputes and arguments.

When talking to others, local people prefer to keep some distance, usually at arm’s length. This distance can be somewhat bigger when talking to women. Men and women do not touch each other in public places, and men can hold hands – this is a symbol of close friendship. Omanis know how to live in harmony, skillfully combining modern technologies with ancient traditions of ancestors. They are proud of the rich heritage of their country and do not hide this. In accordance with a tradition, local banks, shops, and various public offices are closed at the midday, roughly, from 1 to 4 pm.

Women have less power and fewer rights and privileges than men, but they have a special place in families and the right to make decisions. Nowadays, women are allowed to work in many spheres of life, including politics. In cities, women often teach young children. A marriage with a cousin is considered an ideal choice in the country. Young people of both genders prefer to rely on their parents to find a suitable spouse for them. Love marriages are not widespread in the country. Polygamous marriages still exist in Oman, but, in recent years, men have preferred not to get a second or third wife but to divorce and marry again.

Five times a day, life stops in Oman as this is the time for prayers that start at half past four in the morning and end after the sunset. Omanis are punctual, but if someone has family troubles, it is considered a reasonable excuse for being late. The sultan and his family are at the top of the social ladder in Oman, the richest families of the country are one step lower. Then, there is a relatively small mid-class and a much bigger lower class. Omanis are curious and enjoy listening to stories about life in other countries. Their cheerfulness and friendliness do not allow them to criticize others. They also do not like discussing such themes as politics, religion, and other serious subjects.