Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Moving to Oman isn’t just about changing countries: it’s entering a highly codified social, religious, and professional universe, where politeness, discretion, and human relationships take precedence over Western-style speed and efficiency. For many expatriates, the Sultanate is seen as the most welcoming state in the Gulf, sometimes nicknamed the “Switzerland of the Gulf” for its stability and neutrality. But this reputation should not overshadow the fact that society remains deeply conservative, tribal, and Islamic, with non-negotiable rules.
Researching local customs in advance helps avoid blunders and better appreciate your stay in a country renowned for its warm welcome, safety, and authenticity.
Understanding the Omani Context: Society, Religion, and Values
Oman is located at the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, between Yemen, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The country has about 4.5 to 4.6 million inhabitants, with approximately 40% foreigners. The capital, Muscat, concentrates most economic life and a large portion of expatriates, although cities like Salalah, Sohar, or Nizwa also attract managers, engineers, and teachers.
Omani society is profoundly marked by Ibadhi Islam, a distinct branch from Sunni and Shia Islam. This influence translates into values of sobriety, moderation, and social peace. The country is conservative but, compared to some of its regional neighbors, is considered more tolerant and open. In daily life, the importance of family, respect for elders, and a strong sense of community belonging are essential pillars of the culture.
The Importance of Family, Tribe, and Personal Connections
The family is the heart of Omani society. Families are often large, and it’s common for several generations to live nearby, even under the same roof. The structure remains largely patriarchal: men traditionally hold the role of head of household and main providers, while women play a central part in child-rearing and domestic management, even as they are increasingly present in higher education, employment, and entrepreneurship.
Social and political structures remain influenced by tribal roots, although this influence is declining. A key concept to grasp is that of *wasta*: a network of influence and recommendations based on trust, reputation, and family or friendly ties. For an expatriate, it is essential to understand that many processes and agreements rely more on personal relationships and established trust than on the formal framework of a contract.
Key Values: Hospitality, Respect, Patience, and “Saving Face”
Omanis are known for their hospitality and generosity. It’s not uncommon for a stranger to start a conversation, offer coffee, or even invite you to their home. But this warmth comes with implicit rules: restraint, politeness, and avoiding direct confrontation. Personal honor, reputation, and “face” matter enormously. Therefore, public criticism, aggressive tones, or humiliating remarks are avoided, even at work.
The concern for preserving everyone’s dignity leads to a communication style where “no” is often implied. A very polite answer can mean “maybe” or “no” without the word being spoken. Patience thus becomes an indispensable quality, both in social relations and in administrative or professional procedures.
Communication in Oman: Implicit, Respectful, and Highly Relational
For an expatriate, one of the biggest changes concerns the way of communicating. Oman is typically a “high-context” culture: many things are implied, conveyed through tone, non-verbal cues, or the situation rather than the words themselves.
Greeting, Asking About Well-being, Establishing the Connection
Greetings are essential. Start with a “As-salamu alaykum”, to which the response is “Wa alaykum as-salam”. Other phrases like “Sabah al-kheir” in the morning or “Masaa al-kheir” in the evening are much appreciated. It’s common to ask “Kaif halak?” (How are you?), and to respond “Alhamdulillah” (Thanks be to God).
A meeting often begins with several minutes of greetings and questions about health, family, or work. This preamble is not useless chatter: it serves to verify that the atmosphere is cordial and the relationship respectful. Jumping straight to the point can be perceived as rushed or even impolite.
The use of titles is also crucial. An interlocutor is readily called “Doctor,” “Sheikh,” “Sayyid,” or “Hajj” if they hold that status. This applies in companies, administrations, and classic social relations.
Indirect, But Not Vague: Reading Between the Lines
Faced with bad news, a refusal, or a disagreement, most Omanis will favor a softened or nuanced response. Saying “yes” can simply mean “I heard you” or “I’ll take note,” not necessarily “I agree.” Similarly, prolonged silence during a meeting does not mean indifference: it can express disagreement, reflection, or a desire to avoid direct confrontation.
Over half of expatriate candidates lost a job offer in Oman in 2023 due to misinterpreting social cues.
The Role of Non-Verbal Cues and Physical Distance
Non-verbal communication carries considerable weight. Eye contact should be present—a sign of attention and respect—but never insistent. Gestures should remain measured; sudden or theatrical movements can be frowned upon. Pointing at someone, crossing your legs with the sole of your foot facing others, or using your left hand to offer something are to be avoided.
Interpersonal distance is often smaller than in Europe, especially between people of the same sex. An Omani may stand closer in conversation than a Western interlocutor would, without any aggressive or intrusive connotation from their perspective. Conversely, physical distance between men and women remains much more pronounced, particularly in traditional contexts.
Religion and Daily Life: Islam as a Frame of Reference
Oman is an Islamic state, and Islam largely structures the agenda, laws, holidays, and behaviors. For an expatriate, it’s not just a religious element, but a social framework to integrate into daily life.
Prayer, Friday, and Holidays
The five daily prayers punctuate the day, and it’s common for meetings or appointments to be interrupted to allow a participant to go pray. Friday is the main prayer day, with a sermon at the mosque around midday. Many services close or reduce their hours on that day.
The official Moroccan calendar integrates both Islamic religious holidays and national celebrations, shaping the country’s social and economic life.
Marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. This celebration involves several public holidays, the halt of many activities, and significant family gatherings.
Also called the Feast of Sacrifice, it is one of the major Islamic celebrations. It is marked by public holidays, a pause in activities, and massive family gatherings.
Ramadan: A Month That Transforms Social and Professional Life
The month of Ramadan is a key period that upends rhythms. From dawn to sunset, practicing Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, or having sexual relations. For non-Muslims, it is strictly forbidden to eat, drink, or smoke in public during the day; the penal code provides penalties for those who do not respect this rule.
During Ramadan, working hours are reduced to about 5 hours per day in the public sector and 6 hours in many private companies for Muslim employees. Many restaurants (outside hotels) close during the day or set up screens. The general pace slows down, especially in the early afternoon, and activity resumes in the evening after the iftar, the meal to break the fast.
For an expatriate, it’s a period that is both constraining (adapting schedules, slowed services) and fascinating: souks stay open late, families gather en masse, cafes and corniches come alive in a very convivial atmosphere. Participating in an iftar—at a hotel or a family’s home—is often one of the most memorable experiences for newcomers.
Social Codes, Etiquette, and Privacy
Living in Oman requires respecting a set of very precise social rules, sometimes distant from Western standards.
Modesty in Dress
The fundamental rule is simple: in public, cover your shoulders and knees, regardless of gender. Tight, transparent, very low-cut clothing, or items exposing the midriff are prohibited on the street, in shopping malls, government offices, schools, and generally everywhere outside closed tourist areas.
Foreign men will readily wear long pants in the city, with a shirt or polo shirt with sleeves, while shorts above the knee should be reserved for certain informal contexts. Expatriate women often choose loose pants, long skirts or dresses, paired with a top covering the shoulders and décolletage. The headscarf is only mandatory for entering a mosque or certain religious sites, but wearing it in a very traditional environment is seen as a sign of respect.
To quickly visualize the level of requirements depending on the location, expectations can be summarized as: level of requirements.
| Context | Men (expats) | Women (expats) | Particularities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street, mall, souk | Long pants or Bermuda shorts, short sleeves okay | Shoulders and knees covered, loose clothing | Avoid provocative slogans and ripped clothing |
| Offices, professional meetings | Pants, shirt, sometimes suit | Pantsuit, dress or skirt below knee, at least short sleeves | Subdued colors in traditional companies |
| Mosques and religious sites | Long pants, long sleeves | Arms, legs, and hair covered, non-form-fitting clothes | Shoes removed at the entrance |
| Public beaches, wadis | Long shorts and T-shirt for swimming | Covered swimwear (shorts + T-shirt or burkini) | Bikinis reserved for private resorts |
| International hotels & resorts | More relaxed Western attire | Standard swimwear okay in private areas | Modesty still expected in common areas |
This simple basis avoids most problems. If a security guard, colleague, or passerby gently points out that an outfit is not appropriate, the best response is to apologize, thank them, and adjust or cover up.
Public Behavior: Discretion Required
Public displays of affection are highly frowned upon. Holding hands is already borderline for a heterosexual couple, and kisses or embraces can lead to a warning or even trouble with the police in extreme cases. Homosexuality is illegal, and unmarried couples officially cannot live together or share a hotel room.
Alcohol consumption is reserved for licensed establishments, and public intoxication is severely punished. Swearing, obscene gestures (including while driving), and online content deemed indecent are also punishable by law.
In summary, residents—especially foreigners—are expected to show restraint: no loud outbursts, aggressive behavior, or open criticism of religion, the country, or its leaders.
Hospitality, Invitations, and Gifts
Being invited to an Omani home is an honor. In such cases, remove your shoes at the entrance, accept the coffee, tea, dates, and sweets offered. Systematically refusing food or drink can be interpreted as rejecting the host’s generosity. Custom even dictates that you drink at least one small cup of coffee (qahwa) before being able to decline subsequent ones by gently shaking the cup.
It’s welcome to offer a small gift like chocolates, pastries, typical products from your country, quality dates, or Omani halwa. On the other hand, absolutely avoid gifts related to alcohol or pork, overly personal presents, items with erotic connotations, or works depicting women in a suggestive manner.
Photography and Privacy
It is imperative to ask for permission before photographing people, especially women and children. Photographing military installations, government buildings, checkpoints, or certain airports is prohibited and can lead to checks or even arrests. Posting such sensitive photos on social media makes the situation worse.
Business Culture: Hierarchy, Caution, and the Importance of Connection
Coming to work in Oman often requires a rethinking of one’s managerial reflexes and negotiation style.
A Clear Hierarchy and Paternalistic Management
Omani companies, especially local and family-owned ones, operate on a strong hierarchical model. Strategic decisions are usually made by the top echelons, often by one or two key people, while execution then trickles down the levels.
Managers are perceived as benevolent authority figures: they are expected to protect and support their teams, but also expect loyalty, respect, and obedience. Subordinates, on the other hand, rarely ask direct questions or challenge a decision in public. They rather wait for instructions.
In practice, an expatriate manager who is too informal, too horizontal, or too direct risks losing credibility. Conversely, a style combining calm firmness, listening, care to never humiliate someone in front of others, and the ability to build personal trust will be well received.
Decision-Making, Consultation, and Risk Aversion
Omani culture is generally risk-averse. New initiatives are scrutinized: they seek to identify all possible consequences for the individual as well as the group. Failure can have a heavy impact on reputation, and everyone prefers to avoid decisions perceived as risky.
In practice, expect slower decision-making processes, punctuated by multiple meetings and informal consultations. The principle of shura (consultation) also has strong symbolic value: even if the final decision rests with the top, the opinions of different stakeholders are gathered.
Principle of shura (consultation)
A typical example: whereas a European project manager might expect to close a topic after one or two meetings, in Oman it will be frequent to multiply meetings, sometimes with a large group, where discussions seem to start from scratch. This isn’t necessarily a lack of efficiency: it’s often a way to align everyone without offending anyone.
Politeness, “Good Manners,” and Authenticity
In the professional world, behavioral qualities carry a lot of weight. A poll cited in the regional business press indicated that nearly three-quarters of local recruiters value “good manners” (adab) more than technical skills alone. A highly qualified candidate judged as arrogant, impatient, or condescending will therefore have little chance of convincing.
In the Omani professional context, two values are fundamental: asala (authenticity) and amanah (trustworthiness/reliability). Being perceived as a sincere, honest person who keeps their word is as important, if not more so, than diplomas or technical mastery.
Time, Deadlines, and Meetings
Standard working hours in many local companies are segmented: morning from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., then resuming from 3:30 p.m. to around 6:30 p.m. Other structures, especially international ones, tend to work continuous days, e.g., 7 a.m.–4 p.m. The official weekend is Friday and Saturday, with Sunday being a working day.
In terms of punctuality, the situation is paradoxical. Arriving on time for an appointment shows your seriousness. But you shouldn’t be offended if the meeting starts late, gets interrupted by phone calls or visits, or drifts into personal exchanges. Similarly, deadlines are often seen as flexible guidelines. The relationship and the event (the meeting, the visit, the signing) sometimes take precedence over strict adherence to the calendar.
Experience shows that constantly insisting, in a pressing manner, on deadlines can be counterproductive. It’s better to calmly remind people of agreed deadlines, explain constraints, but accept that processes will sometimes take longer than planned. Patience, once again, is a cardinal virtue.
To navigate effectively, it’s advisable to keep a simple grid in mind. This method helps mentally organize space or information, facilitating orientation and memorization.
| Aspect of time | Common perception in Oman | Implications for an expatriate |
|---|---|---|
| Punctuality for appointments | Desirable, a mark of professionalism | Arrive on time, but allow margin for delays |
| Start of the meeting | Often delayed, especially if participants know each other | Don’t show annoyance, make use of small talk |
| Decision-making duration | Quite long, after multiple consultations | Anticipate a longer decision time |
| Strict respect for deadlines | Secondary compared to the relationship | Clarify the importance of deadlines, follow up tactfully |
| Handling unforeseen events | Flexible, frequent plan adaptation | Stay flexible, don’t dramatize schedule changes |
Negotiating in Oman: Relationship, Patience, and Playing the Margins
Omanis have a reputation for being good negotiators. Haggling is a kind of intellectual sport, especially in souks or certain business sectors. In commercial discussions, the pattern may resemble a “win/lose,” but the personal connection remains predominant: they prefer to close a deal with someone they trust, even if it means not getting the very best financial terms.
It’s recommended to come with a reasonable negotiation margin: a starting price not too far from what you’re willing to accept, to avoid losing face when you consent to a too sharp reduction. Overly aggressive offers, ultimatums, or very “commercial” speeches can be very poorly received.
Initial meetings often serve mainly to “get to know each other”: you have coffee, talk about family, career, the country, without immediately getting into the nitty-gritty of the discussion. Trying to wrap everything up in a single session risks coming across as impatient, even contemptuous. The right rhythm involves accepting several appointments, gradually evolving proposals, and accepting that the final decision is made in your absence by a higher authority.
Place of Women, Gender, and Professional Interactions
On a legal level, Oman established a framework prohibiting gender discrimination as early as the 1990s, allowing women to vote and be elected. In practice, progress is real but uneven.
Women and Education, Women and Employment
The rise of female education is spectacular: women now represent more than half of university students, and slightly over half of enrollments in higher education. They are the majority in fields like health, education, or certain services, and represent a significant portion of the public sector. More and more women run their own businesses or hold managerial positions.
However, their labor force participation rate remains lower than that of men and lower than in other Gulf countries. Strong social norms continue to push for prioritizing marriage and motherhood, especially outside major cities. Legal constraints related to family law (marriage, divorce, child custody, nationality transmission) also remain a brake.
In the Company: Respect, But Codes to Know
For a female expatriate, working in Oman is entirely possible, and in many environments, she will be respected for her skills. The key is to apply the same principles of modest dress, respect for religious codes, and restraint in communication.
Among colleagues, interactions between men and women are more formal than in Europe. A handshake will only be offered to a woman if she offers her hand first. It’s important to avoid overly personal jokes, as well as any comments on appearance or private life.
For a male expatriate, being extremely cautious is essential: no unsolicited physical contact, no ambiguous remarks, no overly personal invitations without knowing the codes and people very well. Not only are such behaviors inappropriate, but they can also have legal consequences.
Expatriate Daily Life: Leisure, Travel, Neighborhood
Beyond work, the way to have fun, get around, and live day-to-day will be shaped by Omani norms.
Leisure and Social Life
Muscat offers a cultural and leisure life more limited than major global metropolises, but it is developing: opera, cinemas, shopping malls, cafes and restaurants, festivals like the Muscat Festival. Most festive outings with alcohol are concentrated in the bars and clubs of international hotels.
However, nature represents a major playground: hiking in the Hajar mountains, exploring wadis, diving, dolphin watching, desert camping. These activities, very popular among expatriates, require respecting safety and environmental guidelines, but also local sensitivities (e.g., appropriate attire in villages passed through).
Expatriates often find a social network in clubs, associations, or informal groups. Foreign communities (British, Indian, Filipino, etc.) are very active and facilitate settling in. However, it’s important not to remain confined in this expat “bubble,” as establishing relationships with Omanis is essential for a deep understanding of local society.
Transport, Driving, and Road Codes
A car is almost indispensable, most neighborhoods being designed for automobiles more than pedestrians. Roads are generally good quality, but the accident rate is high, with sometimes unpredictable behavior. Seat belts are mandatory, phone use while driving is prohibited, and fines can be very high.
The highway code applies, but be vigilant about sudden lane changes and frequent overtaking. In rural areas, animals may cross the road, and sudden flash floods can occur in wadis after heavy rains. In case of a serious accident, authorities recommend staying on the spot and calling emergency services.
In the city, taxis and local ride-hailing apps exist. Public buses mainly cover a few major routes.
Neighborhood and Local Integration
In residential neighborhoods mixing Omanis and expatriates, discreet, respectful, and non-intrusive behavior is expected. For example, avoid organizing noisy parties, especially with alcohol, visible from the street or neighbors. Conversely, greeting your neighbors, being available for small favors, accepting an occasional invitation are good ways to integrate.
Settling in an Integrated Tourism Complex (ITC) can offer a more international setting, with condo rules quite close to Europe’s, but it logically limits direct contact with the local population.
Arabic is the official language, with a specific Omani dialect. But English is very widely used, especially in Muscat, in the business sectors, tourism, large companies, and universities. Expatriates can therefore live and work without mastering Arabic, although getting outside major cities becomes more complicated without some basic notions.
In services, you also hear other languages: Hindi, Urdu, Balochi, Swahili, Tagalog, reflecting the diversity of expatriate communities, particularly from South Asia and East Africa.
To gain credibility and friendliness, however, it’s useful to learn a few Arabic phrases, especially greetings and polite expressions. Business cards are ideally bilingual (Arabic/English), presented with both hands and briefly examined before being put away.
Between Law and Culture: What to Absolutely Avoid
Omani law strictly protects public order, Islamic morality, and the country’s reputation. Certain practices that would be considered simple transgressions elsewhere take on another dimension here.
Foreigners should therefore keep in mind:
It is strictly forbidden to criticize Islam, the Sultan, or the government in public or on social media. Alcohol consumption is limited to licensed venues, and driving under the influence is illegal. Possession or consumption of drugs, including so-called “soft” drugs, is severely punished, with trafficking potentially leading to the death penalty. Several products are prohibited: e‑cigarettes, pornographic content, drones without authorization. Finally, any behavior deemed obscene or insulting, even a simple gesture, can be subject to a complaint.
The best way to avoid problems is to adopt an attitude of absolute respect: avoid sensitive subjects, monitor your language in public and online, and remember that in case of a dispute, local law applies.
Preparing for Expatriation: Adapting Your Reflexes
Settling in Oman offers a safe, stable, rather relaxed living environment, with a moderate cost of living compared to other Gulf capitals. But a successful expatriation requires accepting a profound shift in reference points.
This involves integrating a series of reflexes:
To succeed in your integration into the local context, it is essential to accept that the relationship and mutual respect take precedence over immediate results, whether in business or daily life. This involves cultivating patience, especially in the face of seemingly slow decisions, delays, or administrative processes. Diplomatic, polite, and measured communication, avoiding direct confrontation, is to be favored. In terms of dress, adopt a modest and respectful outfit, especially outside tourist areas and during Ramadan. Also, integrate the constraints related to religion (prayer times, Ramadan, Islamic holidays) into the organization of your work and personal life. Finally, understand that certain freedoms taken for granted in Europe or North America (regarding alcohol, sexuality, and public expression) may be limited or controlled here.
In return, the country offers a secure environment, exceptional hospitality, and a rare sense of authenticity. For many expatriates, it is this mix between measured modernity and assumed tradition that makes a stay in Oman charming. Learning to navigate these cultural differences is not just a matter of caution: it is also the key to getting the best out of a life experience in the Sultanate.
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
