Clothing in Oman

TRADITIONAL CLOTHING FOR MEN IN OMAN

Men's traditional clothing in Oman is deeply rooted in the nation’s culture and history, symbolizing both personal identity and practicality. Two key elements of this attire are the dishdasha and the kumma, worn in daily life and for special occasions.

Dishdasha

The dishdasha is a long, ankle-length garment, typically white or in pastel shades, known for its simplicity and elegance. In Oman’s hot climate, the dishdasha serves multiple purposes: it offers protection from the sun and promotes airflow, making it ideal for everyday wear. It also symbolizes modesty and cultural belonging, values that are central to Omani society.

For formal occasions, the dishdasha is often complemented by traditional accessories, such as the bisht, a colored cloak worn over the garment for added elegance, and the khanjar, a silver dagger that highlights the wearer’s connection to Omani heritage and values.

Kumma

The kumma is a round, often colorfully embroidered cap worn by men in Oman. It’s an essential part of everyday attire, offering protection from the sun while also representing cultural pride. In formal settings, the kumma is sometimes replaced by a massar, a carefully wrapped turban that varies in style depending on the region and the wearer’s social status. The wrapping techniques often reflect the individual’s background or standing within the community, showcasing Oman’s rich traditions.

Both the dishdasha and kumma are more than just clothing items – they are expressions of national identity and cultural pride, connecting Oman’s centuries-old traditions with the modern world.

TRADITIONAL CLOTHING FOR WOMEN IN OMAN

Omani women’s clothing beautifully combines tradition, cultural identity, and practicality for everyday life. The abaya and various types of headscarves play a central role, symbolizing modesty, elegance, and a deep connection to Omani culture.

Abaya

The abaya is a long, flowing overgarment worn by many women in Oman, especially in public settings. While the abaya is typically black, darker shades like navy or gray are also common. Beyond its cultural significance, it serves a functional purpose by protecting women from the intense desert sun and wind.

For formal occasions, the abaya often becomes a fashion statement with intricate embroidery, embellishments, and high-quality fabrics like silk or satin, reflecting the wearer’s style and the importance of the event.

Traditional Headscarves

Headscarves, such as the lahaf and the shayla, are also key elements of Omani women’s traditional dress. These scarves provide protection from the elements while also expressing religious faith and cultural identity. The way a headscarf is worn varies greatly, with some women opting for a loose drape for casual elegance, while others prefer a tighter, more structured look.

For special occasions, headscarves are often more elaborately styled and may feature decorative elements like jewelry or embroidery. Though wearing the abaya and headscarf is not legally required in Oman, both garments are deeply embedded in the culture, offering women the chance to honor their traditions while showcasing their personal style.

DRESS CODE FOR MOSQUE VISITS

Visiting mosques in Oman requires adherence to specific dress codes, a sign of respect for religious customs and traditions. These guidelines apply to both men and women, and following them ensures a respectful and meaningful experience.

Dress Code for Women

When entering a mosque, women are required to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect. In addition, arms and legs must be covered, with loose, non-transparent clothing preferred to maintain modesty and meet cultural expectations. In some mosques, such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, abayas are available for rent to help tourists meet these dress requirements.

Dress Code for Men

Men are also expected to follow a modest dress code when visiting mosques. Long pants are mandatory, and shirts should cover the arms. Tight or revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. As with women, the dress code helps uphold the religious and cultural sanctity of the mosque.

In addition to the clothing guidelines, visitors should observe cultural etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering, keeping quiet during prayer times, and being mindful when taking photos. By following these customs, tourists can show respect and foster positive cultural exchanges.

DRESSING FOR OMAN’S CLIMATE

Oman’s climate varies significantly depending on the region, making it important to choose the right clothing for your trip. Special attention should be paid to the extreme heat in desert areas and the cooler temperatures in wadis and coastal regions.

Desert Regions

Oman’s deserts, like the Rub al Khali (Empty Quarter), are known for their extreme temperatures, with daytime highs often exceeding 40°C (104°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop significantly. In these conditions, loose, long clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen is essential for staying comfortable and protected from the sun. Light-colored clothing is recommended as it reflects the sun’s rays, and a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses are necessary to shield against the intense sunlight. A light scarf can also provide added protection from the sun and hot desert winds.

As the temperature drops at night, having a warm layer, such as a fleece or down jacket, along with warm socks and a hat, is crucial for staying comfortable during the cooler desert evenings.

Wadis and Coastal Areas

In Oman’s wadis and coastal regions, the climate is cooler and more humid, so layering is key. Lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers combined with insulating mid-layers will help you adapt to changing temperatures. A waterproof outer layer, like a rain jacket, is also helpful, particularly near the coast, where showers can occur. For activities in the wadis, long, lightweight hiking pants and UV-protective long-sleeve shirts are recommended to protect from both the sun and potential scratches from rocks or plants.

At the coast, a windbreaker or fleece is useful for the cooler evenings, while loose, light clothing ensures comfort during the warmer parts of the day.

In all regions, dressing appropriately not only ensures comfort but also safety, protecting you from the harsh sun and cooler temperatures. It’s also important to remain culturally sensitive by covering arms and legs, especially in public spaces.