Oman's business culture

Doing business in Oman requires not only an understanding of the market but also sensitivity to local culture and business practices.

As Oman continues to develop as a strategic business center in the Middle East, foreign investors and companies entering this market need to take into account the nuances of the Omani business culture. Oman's business etiquette reflects a combination of Arab traditions and Islamic values.

The influence of Islam on business etiquette

In Oman, business practices are based on Islamic principles that emphasize trust and sincerity, and honesty and reliability are essential business assets.

Omani companies often start their day with the azan, the call to prayer, which is performed five times a day. This spiritual moment is an integral part of business life. Meetings may be interrupted for prayer, demonstrating respect for spiritual duties. Planning with these points in mind demonstrates cultural understanding and respect.

Honesty in business is a must. The principle of "aman," or trust, requires transparent and fair relationships. This implies clear communication, fulfilling commitments, and keeping promises. For example, when an Omani business partner says: "Inshallah" ("If it is God's will"), it means a sincere recognition of the divine will.

Greetings

A handshake is the main form of greeting among men. It is better to greet women with a nod of the head. When they meet, the Omanis shake hands and greet each other like "Al-Salaam alaikum" (peace be upon you), the answer is "Wa alaikum al-salaam" (peace be upon you). Cheek kisses between men are also common when meeting close friends or relatives. It is important to show respect and greet the older one first.

In business communication, it is customary to use Arabic titles such as "hajji" or "sheikh" to demonstrate one's respect for the interlocutor. It is also important to maintain eye contact, which is considered a sign of attention and respect.

Business cards

The exchange of business cards is an important element of business communication. Make sure that your card is double-sided (in English and Arabic) and serve it with both hands. It is also important to show respect and carefully read all the cards that you have been given. This will show your interest and respect for the other person.

Business meetings

In Oman, it is customary to schedule business meetings on weekdays - from Monday to Thursday. They are traditionally held from 8:00 to 13:00 and from 15:30 to 18:30. These hours are considered the most suitable for official meetings and negotiations.

Friday and Saturday are days off in Oman. This is important to consider when planning meetings and other business events. On Friday afternoon, many institutions and offices close, which may affect the schedule of negotiations.

The Omani business culture is based on bilingualism in Arabic and English, so hiring a reliable translator is a wise investment. Like many of their neighbors, Omanis consider small talk to be an essential factor in building trust and confidence in business relationships. Although Western businessmen may consider this a waste of time, polite and friendly conversations about health and well-being are crucial for making friends and influencing people in the business community of Oman.

Business meetings also have cycles. Visitors often "book twice," and Omani leaders often receive several guests at once, chatting with one group while the rest are served light snacks. A Westerner with his sensitivity may find this annoying, but it is important to remain calm and respect the Omani way of life.

The standard business protocol assumes that the visitor must submit an offer for consideration by the receiving party. However, presentations should be short and concise. The receiving party rarely makes a final decision on a proposal the first time, and the answer "Yes" means only: "I heard you."

Omanis do not like categorical expressions of opinion, and flexibility is the key to building strong business relationships. Any agreement is likely to take time and several rounds of meetings to finalize. Decisions are often made at the highest level of the organization. Managers make decisions after numerous discussions with all stakeholders. After making a decision, it is passed on to subordinates for implementation.

Accepting offers of coffee (kahwa) and dates is a sign of respect and hospitality. Business negotiations often take place over treats.

Gift exchange is a common practice in Omani business circles. However, it is worth remembering that such gifts should be modest and appropriate. These are usually corporate souvenirs such as pens, key rings, or other small items. Avoid alcohol and pork to comply with cultural norms. Give gifts with both hands to demonstrate sincerity.

Communication styles

Omani business communication often combines directness, politeness, and indirect language, especially when conveying potentially negative information. Saving face, proper behavior, and protecting social connections are important factors.

Establishing mutual understanding and trust is of paramount importance before starting direct business negotiations. The first meetings can be entirely devoted to getting to know each other.

Although direct communication is appreciated for clarity, sensitive topics can be discussed indirectly to maintain harmony and avoid confrontation. Pay attention to non-verbal cues and context.

Non-verbal communication: Body language, eye contact (or lack thereof in certain situations), and personal space matter. However, excessive eye contact can be perceived as disrespectful, so it is important to maintain a balance.Standing too close during a conversation is a violation of unspoken rules that can cause discomfort.

Silence in Oman is often perceived as a sign of reflection rather than disagreement. Omani gestures are usually restrained and concise, so avoid overly dramatic hand movements. A slight nod or smile can be more expressive than loud words.

Avoid pointing with your finger, use your whole hand. The left hand is considered unclean, so use your right hand to gesture, give, or receive objects.

Business lunches

The etiquette at the dinner table in Oman is based on the principles of hospitality and respect. The basic rules include greeting, serving dishes, and expressing gratitude. The oldest guest greets all those present with a handshake or hug. The dishes are served in order of precedence, starting with the most respected person at the table. It is customary not to start eating before the invitation and to take only the necessary amount of food. Expressing gratitude after a meal is considered mandatory.

While eating, it is important to use your right hand for cutlery and hold knives in your left hand. It is not customary to touch other people's plates. Everyone sitting at the table should look at each other, not in the same direction. Talking during prayer or when someone is talking is considered impolite. Participating in the meal demonstrates respect for the hospitality and culture of Oman.

Dress code

In Oman, a proper style of dress implies respect for the cultural values of the country.

Men should wear a suit and tie, and women should wear shirts that cover their shoulders and arms, and knee-length skirts. More sophisticated clothing is allowed for evening events, including jackets and suits, while trousers and shirts are sufficient for informal meetings.

As for women, in Oman they have the opportunity to choose clothes that emphasize their individuality, but at the same time observe certain limits of decency. It is important to note that in Oman, women have the freedom to choose their clothes and are not required to cover their heads, which makes this country one of the most progressive in the Persian Gulf in terms of gender equality in the workplace.

Holidays and memorable dates

Both national and Islamic holidays are celebrated in Oman, which significantly affects the work of enterprises. In addition, the working day is shortened during the holy month of Ramadan. Eating, drinking and smoking in public places are prohibited during Ramadan. Business meetings can be scheduled after sunset.

Oman adheres to the Islamic Hijri calendar, which follows the lunar cycle. The dates of Muslim holidays vary annually depending on the lunar calendar. The main public holidays on which businesses close include:

• Islamic New Year (Hijri): the beginning of the new year according to the Islamic calendar. The holiday's date depends on the position of the moon and usually falls in September or October.
• Eid al-Fitr: a three-day holiday marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan (March-April). During this period, businesses are closed, and after the holiday, they may reopen with reduced hours.
• Eid al-Adha: a four-day holiday commemorating the sacrifice of Abraham. Many businesses suspend operations during this period, as it coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage. The date of Eid al-Adha varies annually according to the Gregorian calendar and falls in June-July.
• National Day (November 18): Commemorates the birthday of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who instituted significant reforms in Oman. This holiday is an important national event, and government offices and most businesses are closed on this day.
• Prophet Muhammad's Birthday: Commemorates the birthday of the founder of Islam. The date also varies depending on the lunar calendar, shifting annually (in 2025, it was celebrated on September 3). Although this is not a national holiday, some businesses, especially religious organizations, may close or operate on reduced hours.
• Ashura: marks the Day of Ashura in Shia Islam (June-July). In regions with a predominantly Shiite population, businesses may partially close or operate on a reduced schedule.