Culture
- If you are someone who has an
understanding and appreciation of history, arts, architecture and the
intricacies of a civil society, Oman is the place for you. From the
ancient city of Nizwa to the towns along the coast to the Capital to
Salalalah, all seeped in history, you can experience Oman's sense of
timelessness.
The Sultanate enjoys an unspoiled
culture and traditional lifestyle in almost every aspect. Even in its
modernity, Oman is distinctly Arabic and offers many unique old-world
wonders.
The Omani culture has its roots firmly
deep in the Islamic religion. Oman developed its own particular form of
Islam, called Ibadhism, after its founder, Abdullah ibn Ibadh
who lived during the 7th century AD. Not all Omanis are Ibadhis however;
there are also Sunni and Shi'a Muslims. Omanis are not only tolerant of
the beliefs of different Muslim divisions, they are also tolerant
towards believers of other faiths, who are allowed to practice their
religion in churches and temples.
Muslims are
required to pray five times each day after the call to prayer by the
Imam. Beautiful, ornate mosques are found throughout the Sultanate, but
they are not open to non-Muslim visitors. The holy month of Ramadhan is
a time of fasting and praying. For around 29 to 30 days each Islamic
year, Muslims refrain from smoking, eating and drinking during the hours
of fasting (from sunrise to sunset). Ramadhan advances 10 to 11 days
each year as it is governed by the lunar calendar. Out of respect,
non-Muslim residents and visitors to the Sultanate are expected to
observe the same principles in public.
Heritage
- A legacy that has been passed
on from generation to generation; the art, the culture, the folklore and
the artistry has to be seen. But there is much more in the heart of Oman
to explore: the sense of respect for time, for people, and for
nature.Come and taste a part of Oman's rich heritage, kept alive and
uncganged for generations. It may help you understand tomorrow a little
better.
For its size, Oman boasts an
unprecedented number of UNESCO-classified World Heritage Sites including
Bat—with its tombs dating back 3,000 years, the
Fort of Bahla, and the majestic Frankincense Route
which commences from Dhofar and includes Al-Blaid; site of the
ancient city of Zafar, Khawr Rawri, Shisr and Wadi
Dukah.
Oman's heritage features a prominent
sea-faring tradition, as one would expect from a country with 3,165 Km
of coastline.
Many museums and
galleries around the secluded and historic harbours of Muscat and
Muttrah illuminate the importance of the sea and, indeed, of water
generally, throughout Oman's 5,000 year-old history.
Dress Code for Visitors:
The dress code is fairly liberal in Muscat, although decency is still
expected. Women should wear, for example, tops with sleeves, and long
skirts or trousers. Men are required to wear trousers and shirts with
sleeves. Swimwear should be restricted to the beach or pools.