How conservative is Oman?

Hi sdrawkcab,

Your query warrants a minimum 10,000 worded response. But I shall keep it short for obvious reasons !

The Sultanate of Oman treads a very moderate path. It is neither too conservative in the true sense of the term, nor is it very liberal in its attitude.

Oman exemplifies religious tolerance so much so that despite being an total Islamic nation, has Hindu temples, Sikh gurudwaras and Christian churches, where the many expatriates who live and work here can freely practice their religion.

Unlike, say, a place like Saudi where repression is at its extremes, or UAE's Dubai, for instance, where social liberalisation bordering on hedonism is the norm, Oman is a neutral nation where one would not encounter extremes of any kind.

Local women wear abayas, as well as don modern outfits. But most youngsters are usually clothed in the latest fashion apparels, but throw an abaya over those outfits ! Men are almost always in their dishdashas, except when partying out or when on an outing when they are in their trendy jeans and tees and shorts and slacks.

Sexes do mix and intermingle - though not obviously and conspicuously. Yet it is not exactly done surreptitiously either. But their background, culture and upbringing forbids them from striking up a conversation with total strangers of the opposite sex in public places and catch-up later for a coffee ... and more !

Locals seldom mix with expatriates outside of their work environments. Oh yes, and the Omani women are encouraged to study and take up gainful employment. That itself is a sign of a very progressive mindset.

Oman as a modern country is really in its infancy - just 45 years old - brilliantly led by the very wise and able leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Sultan. It is His Majesty who has shown this country the way and the direction of growth that it is pursuing. It is His Majesty who has supported and encouraged the empowerment of women and it is His Majesty who has transformed this once little known desert nation into one of the most developed and cosmopolitan countries in the world today.