The country itself has been regarded as the famed Atlantis of the Sands. History stretches far across the nation and treasures either lies as ruins of the past, or preciously preserved for future generations to admire.
People
Omanis are the cultural people of the nation. The background of these peoples are ethnically diverse, with ancestry deriving from places such as Eastern Africa, Zanzibar and Portugal.
There are various regional names throughout the Sultanate to identify certain aspects of their specific culture and ethnic background.
Ties from Omani Culture has adapted and grown through the decades. Although it continues its predominant Islamic followings - the nation has evolved from its past tribal organizations and traditions - especially after the attempts to subdue the country by classic Islamic Empires and Portuguese Invaders.
Since the first Arab tribes arrived in the country, the principal language of Oman has been Arabic. Many Omanis are multilingual with most being able to speak English.
Additionally, coastal regions employ various provincialisms that have similarities with the Baluchi, Persian, Urdu, Gujarati and Portuguese language. Other unique South Arabian languages (that are not distinguishable with modern Arabic) are spoken by many aborigines and nomads of the Dhofar Governorate.
An important symbol of the Omani culture are the traditional daggers, otherwise known as the khanjars. This emblem is displayed on the national flag, Omani Rial (currency), postage stamps and public buildings. As identified by all Omanis, the khanjar represents prestige, honour and courage. Therefore it is perceived with respect and esteem.
There are varying styles and designs of the khanjar. It is often used to recognize a person's social standings, stature and background.
Breakfast and dinner, consisting of bread, fruit and tea, are not usually considered as significant parts of the day. On the contrary, the main meal is during early to mid-afternoon. Most of cultural Omani dishes focus on a large dish of rice, a sauce and lahm - meat. Omanis eat all meats aside from pork, as it is forbidden in Islam. Much of Omani cuisine is influenced by Indian cooking. Dates, coffee and Helwa (a traditional confectionary made of butter, honey and spices) are important influences on Omani food culture and customs.
According to their Islamic ties, Omanis celebrate a month of fasting known as Ramadan - the spiritual commemoration of the revelation of the Quran to Muhammad. Most Omanis - with few exceptions - refrain from eating or drinking between sunrise and sunset. Before a ritual family meal when breaking fast, traditionally fasters share coffee and dates.
Mens Clothing
The Dishdasha is the traditional Omani attire for men. It is a light, plain gown usually reaching the ankles with long sleeves. A headdress made of a fine piece of cloth is used to accompany the clothing. In terms of shoes, simple sandals are worn.
Womens Clothing
Embellishments, adornments, embroidery and silver bands are a distinguished part of the traditional Omani dress. Women, with modesty a prime characteristic, wear long dresses that touches the knee with ankle length pants. Highly intricate Islamic calligraphy is often engraved into silver or gold metals to create fine jewellry and Omani ornaments. Although modern day Omani woman prefer to wear Western Style shoes, the Qurhaf is the traditional platform footwear made from wood.
During special occasions or celebrations, for men the khanjar becomes part of the cultural costume, and women decorate their hands and feet with Henna.
