When we were planning our Oman trip, we didn't think at all about Ramadan and what impact it could have on our vacation, so we spent our entire trip during Ramadan. First of all, as with so many points, there are pros and cons here, which is why you have to decide for yourself whether a trip during Ramadan is right for you.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds special significance for the Muslim community around the world. During this time, devout Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset to achieve spiritual purity, exercise self-control, and deepen their connection with God. It has its origin in the revelation of the Koran to the Prophet Mohammed and is a time of devotion, prayer and generosity to those in need. Lent ends with Eid al-Fitr, a festival of joy, gathering and charity. In Oman, as in other Muslim countries, Ramadan is celebrated on different dates each year due to the lunar-based calendar. You should therefore find out about the exact dates in advance, as they vary from year to year.
Next Ramadan:
2024: 10.03. - 09.04.2024
2025: 28.02. - 30.03.2025
2026: 16.02. - 18.03.2026
One of the main benefits is having the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural depths of the country and to experience the special atmosphere of Lent. Visiting mosques and watching the communal iftar meals after sunset were unforgettable experiences for us. In Muscat in particular, it is typical for hotels to set up a huge buffet in the evening and for families to eat here. We were lucky that a huge buffet was set up in our hotel and many locals came by to enjoy the great ambience and celebrate the evening with the family. When we visited the wadis, we had the advantage of being all alone most of the time, as it is not a destination for the locals during Ramadan. The same was true for hotels, as it seems to discourage tourists from traveling during Ramadan. As a result, we often had the entire hotel complex to ourselves.
However, you should keep in mind that working hours may be reduced during Ramadan. During Lent, most restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day so as not to disturb the faithful. However, you can get food in most hotels, supermarkets and tourist areas. Unfortunately, this also meant that we had to eat inside for breakfast. Personally, this was the point that bothered me the most, as I love having breakfast outside when the weather is good instead of in the air-conditioned interior. Access to alcohol is relatively difficult in Oman. Hotels often have a liquor license, but they usually do not serve alcohol during Ramadan. Compared to some other countries, Ramadan in Oman is practiced in a more traditional and reserved way. Public observance of the fast is greatly respected and expected, especially among the general public. However, locals are hospitable and understand that tourists may not be fasting. The atmosphere is usually calm and respectful, allowing you to experience the spirituality and culture up close. Even though, I would like to ask you to be respectful of local customs by not eating or drinking in public during Ramadan.
To sum it up:
Advantages:
- Deep insights into the culture f.e. Lent
- Joining communal Iftar Meals
- Less crowded hotels and attractions like Wadis
Disadvantages:
- Reduced working hours
- Most Restaurants and Cafes will be closed during the day
- Difficult to access alcoholic drinks
Overall, Ramadan in Oman offers a unique opportunity to experience the country's cultural heritage and be part of a significant religious tradition. It is important to behave respectfully during this time and to be aware of how local customs can affect everyday travel.
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