Traveling as a woman in Oman

Is it safe?

Contrary to the preconception that it is somehow inappropriate or even dangerous for women to travel alone in Oman, we would like to make it clear that Oman is a safe country to travel in and women are highly respected.

Omanis are generally brought up to have a great deal of respect for women. Omani women are often very self-confident, and our experience is that women can travel in Oman without any problems – more easily than in many European countries. Offers of help with flat tires or directions can also be accepted. Of course, in Oman, too, women must assess the situation realistically and err on the side of caution when in doubt.

In general, it is advisable for all travelers to observe a few rules and familiarize themselves with the customs of their destination in order to respect the country's traditions and avoid making any avoidable “mistakes.” This applies in particular to women traveling alone in order to avoid misunderstandings.

How should I dress?

Revealing clothing is completely unusual in Oman and will definitely be misunderstood. We in the West have the stereotype that women in the Arab world are oppressed simply because they wear head coverings – conversely, there is a stereotype there that the West is permissive (= immoral), recognizable, among other things, by the fact that women flaunt their feminine charms in tight, low-cut clothing. There is a very simple solution to this: wear conservative, loose-fitting clothing that shows little skin and little body shape, and in very remote areas, perhaps even a light headscarf.

How should I behave when I receive an invitation?

When it comes to spontaneous invitations to someone's home – which are quite common in Oman, even to strangers – the following generally applies: If the invitation comes too quickly, almost reflexively, it is a polite phrase and you will embarrass your counterpart if you accept it. If you have had a nice, long conversation, even similar interests, professional tasks, or if your counterpart is even planning a trip to Europe and hopes for an exchange and tips, an invitation for coffee can be accepted – but only if the man emphasizes: Meet my wife/sister/cousin and visit us....: If women are present when the invitation is made, or if you are invited by a family or women: Don't miss the chance for this encounter and insight into Omani culture.

How should I behave towards men?

Handshakes and physical contact between men and women outside the family are not customary. This is not out of disrespect, but rather out of respect and the assumption that women do not like it. In Islam, there is also the belief that this is not appropriate between men and women outside the family. Traditional ways of thinking and religious customs also come into play here. If you are a woman traveling alone and need information, it is best to ask women. Only approach men if there are no women around. When you go to a restaurant, use the “family room” if available.

How important are religion and family?

Religion is very important. Behave respectfully and only enter mosques during the official visiting hours for non-Muslims or – by invitation – wearing appropriate clothing and showing the necessary respect for the religion. Mosques are places of prayer and generally not tourist attractions.

Most Omanis have no problem with the fact that we travelers from Western Europe have a different faith – they may even ask you to include certain concerns of the person you are talking to in your non-Muslim prayers, which is a sign of great respect.

It is truly inconceivable for Omanis, 99% of whom are religious, that someone does not belong to a religion – or worse – does not believe in God.

If you express such beliefs, you must expect to be viewed with suspicion.

The situation is similar with regard to family and children. Having many children is a matter of course and associated with a great deal of pride and prestige. Large families with six or more children are still very common, especially in rural areas. The fact that we sometimes do not have children – perhaps even by choice – is even less understandable there than in Western Europe.