Etiquette in Ibri: visiting Oman's traditional west

Ibri and the Ad Dhahirah region are among the most traditional parts of Oman, with strong tribal customs and few foreign visitors. A respectful approach is warmly received.

Dress and conduct

Dress conservatively at all times outside hotels: long sleeves and trousers or long skirts. Women travelling alone will be treated with courtesy but may attract curiosity.

The souq

Ibri's souq is busiest on Thursday mornings, when livestock is traded. Stay out of the way of animals and buyers and ask before taking photographs.

The tombs of Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ayn

These are 5,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage sites. Do not climb on or move stones from the tombs, stay on paths and take nothing away. The sites are near villages and farms; respect private land.

Sulaif and the old quarters

Abandoned mud-brick villages are fragile. Walk carefully, do not climb walls and avoid entering unsafe buildings.

Village hospitality

You may be invited for coffee by local families. Accept if you can, sit where you are shown and follow your hosts' lead.

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.

How R2LUX helps

We help international buyers settle comfortably in Oman, starting with the right community. Three current homes are listed below.