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Lifestyle
Like many modern states in the Gulf region, Oman has a sophisticated, professional, well-educated, creative and committed society.
In particular, the commitment to friendship, hospitality and the value of the family is the solid foundation for a lifestyle that is a pleasure to behold.
And yet, added to this is that curious and fascinating insight into a way of life that is uniquely Arabic and invites the visitor to take an imaginative leap into another world.
Diving
With 1700 Km of coastline, and clean, unpolluted waters, Oman is one of the best-kept secrets in the diving world. There are a number of dive agents who will arrange trips to the numerous coral reefs surrounding the Sultanate.
Natural Wonders
From the ancient fjords of Musandam, to the lush green hills and waterfalls of
Dhofar, from the deep wadis to the peaks of the dramatic Hajar Mountains, to the endless unspoilt beaches along the Arabian Sea: the Sultanate of Oman is a country rich in diverse natural beauty. All just waiting to be explored.
Language
Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken. German and French are spoken by hotel staff.
Local Time: GMT + 4 hours.
Population: 2.402.000
Climate
Oman is a relatively small and largely unspoilt country. Yet, despite its size, it has a surprisingly diverse climate - and therefore, a varied natural landscape - as you move from the North of the country to the South.
The Omani summer runs from April to September and, for the most part is hot (averaging 40 C). It can be humid in certain areas. However, there is then the remarkable Khareef Season to confound expectations: this is the period from July to September when the Dhofar region in the South glories in the relief of life-giving rain and cooler temperatures, and in a spectacular landscape which is lush, green, easy on the eye, and forever throwing up a variety of flora and fauna to delight in.
The Omani winter runs from October through March with the average temperature at about 25 C, cool and clear nights, and all kinds of temptations to be outdoors as much as possible.
Clothing
Lightweight summer clothing in cottons or blends is ideal for most of the year. A sweater, or a light jacket may be need for cooler evenings. The dress code in Oman is relaxed, but extremely revealing and inappropriate clothing may be considered offensive.
Currency: Omani Rial RO 0.724 = £ 1.00 approx.
Credit Cards
Credit Cards such as American Express, Visa, Mastercard and Diners Club are widely accepted in shopping areas.
Road Services
Well maintained highways link every major city in Oman. Information relating to Car Rental facilities (International Driving License required)
Shopping: 08:30am - 01:00pm and 04:30pm - 09:00pm
Electricity: 220 Volts - 240 Volts
Business Hours
Government: 07:30 am to 02:30 pm
Private Sector: 08:00 am to 01:00 pm and 04:00 pm to 07:00 pm
Health and Medical Facilities
Hospitals, pharmacies and health clinics are available throughout Oman. Modern hospitals with state-of-the-art equipment can contend with any emergency.
Ramadan
Ramadan is the holy month of fasting when Muslims abstain from eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours. As a sign of respect, visitors are also required to refrain from these activities in public between sunrise and sunset.
Alcohol
Alcohol is served in Hotels and bars and clubs. Drinking in public is not permitted.
Photography
Tourist photography is allowed but it is considered offensive to photograph Muslim women or near military installations. It is always courteous to ask permission before taking pictures.
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