How to Ensure Your Safety While in Oman

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Middle East, Oman welcomes visitors from around the world. While Oman is one of the safest countries to visit in the region, there are certain rules of etiquette and laws all travellers must follow in order to enjoy an incident-free getaway in the country. From taboo topics of conversation to special rules to follow during holy periods, here are some tips on how to ensure you enjoy a safe trip to the country.

Image Credit: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

1. Respect the Sultan

While mocking political leaders and statesmen is an everyday occurrence and a conversation starter in the West, Oman and most Middle Eastern countries do not take criticisms of their leaders lightly. It is taboo to say anything derogatory about the current Sultan Sayyid Qaboos bin Said Al Said, even in jest as he is a figure that all Omanis love and respect without question. This is very similar to how Thais feel about their royal family and the Thai king, in particular as these figures are considered above reproach and criticism so avoid referring to the sultan whenever possible and never express any negative sentiments regarding the ruling class with any locals.

2. Don't Criticise the Country

Travellers who are visiting Oman for the first time may be surprised at a great many norms in how locals operate within the country. This could extend from cultural practices to how they behave in public. While a little culture shock is to be expected, it is wise never to share any negative impressions on the country with the local populace. If it is possible, it is best not to speak on the country and its state of affairs at all as one may cause offence without even meaning to. Saving one's face or maintaining a good reputation is a big part of how individuals relate to another in Oman so it is necessary to refrain from commenting matters such as politics, officials and the Omani government and any shortcomings you may notice therein.

3. Rudeness and Loudness

Omanis are very wary of angry outbursts and expressions of rage and impatience as these qualities are considered immature and uncouth in a public setting. Tourists should avoid speaking too loudly or reacting too brashly to service persons or any other individuals one may come across on one's travel and refrain from engaging in any heated discussions or arguments with a member of your own travel party or a local Omani. As a peace-loving and calm people, Omanis are known to file official complaints against foreigners they deem to be unruly.

4. Drinking Matters

While most Muslim countries do not allow even tourists to consume alcohol, travellers heading to Oman need not worry about becoming temporary teetotallers during a getaway to the country. Hotels and restaurants serve alcohol as they have secured the necessary licenses to do so. Liquor licenses are granted by the Royal Oman Police while the legal age for drinking in Oman is 21 years of age.

5. Ramadan Rules

Travellers who are visiting Oman during the holy month of Ramadan should be particularly careful of breaking laws and cultural norms that are part of how community life is conducted during the festival period. While drinking in hotel bars and other establishments with a license are perfectly legal, being intoxicated in a public setting is not. Ramadan season also bans smoking, eating as well as drinking beverages in public during the daylight hours as most Omanis are fasting during this time of day although they may be engaged in their workplace or spending time outdoors. Anyone who is found to be breaking these rules risk being arrested.

6. Respect and Courtesy

Whether one is based at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara or any other Salalah beach resort or a city hotel in the heart of the capital, it is difficult to ignore how courteous and polite the local populace is across the country. Maintaining this respect towards others will help tourists safely navigate their way through Oman. If one is invited to a local home it is important to remember to remove any footwear when entering the premises while bringing along a gift is also a must if one is to create a good impression.