Local Customs

Certain body language will sometimes offend people in Oman: don't point directly at people and don't show the soles of your feet or shoes directly so that people can see them. Public displays of affection between the sexes, such as kissing, hugging and holding hands, are most definitely frowned upon. It is considered polite not to smoke in public although there are no-smoking signs posted where it is actually prohibited to smoke. Alcohol is not completely illegal, but it is only legal to drink in licensed establishments. Be careful when taking photographs of people, especially women; always ask permission. It is also a good idea not to take photos of anything that could be even vaguely related to the military.


Muscat Dining

Muscat boasts a reasonable variety of restaurants. As well as the often excellent local cuisine, establishments exist offering a range of cooking from Texas chicken to Indian foods. Western styles of cooking are less abundantly represented, but are available within hotel restaurants and in a few other places. The specialities of the region are based around seafoods such as lobster, crab and squid. Note that in restaurants independent of hotels, alcohol is not generally served.

Muscat Tipping Advice

Tipping is not usual in the cheaper areas of Muscat. Expensive restaurants habitually include a service charge, which benefits the restaurant rather than the waiting staff.