Etiquette in Ibra: the women's souq, old quarters and the desert

Ibra and the Sharqiyah are traditional regions where old merchant families and Bedouin communities live close to the desert. Their markets and villages are special, and respectful visitors are welcome.

The women's souq

On Wednesday mornings Ibra's souq is run by women for women. Men should stay at the edges and not wander through the women's area; women visitors can browse freely. Do not photograph the sellers or shoppers without permission.

Old quarters

The old houses of Al Minzifah and Al Qanatir are private property, some still owned by families. Admire them from the lanes, do not enter unsafe buildings and avoid climbing on walls.

Desert camps and Bedouin families

In the Sharqiya Sands, Bedouin families often host visitors for coffee. Accept politely, sit where invited and follow your host's lead. Do not drive over vegetation, keep noise down at night and take your rubbish back.

Dress

The Sharqiyah is conservative: dress modestly in towns and villages, even in the heat.

The basics everywhere in Oman

• Greet first with as-salamu alaykum; handshakes are common between men, but wait for a woman to offer her hand.
• Use your right hand to eat, give and receive.
• Dress modestly in public, with shoulders and knees covered.
• Ask before photographing people, especially women, and never photograph military or palace sites.
• Accept coffee and dates when offered; shake the cup gently when you have had enough.
• Keep your voice calm; public anger and swearing are taken seriously.

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