How do I greet people, shake hands/ bow or do I wait to be greeted first? Any specific act of politeness that is good to know for us who has never traveled in this area?

It is customary for an Omani to greet profusely even on the most casual meeting and it would be polite to return his greeting with a friendly remark or gesture if you are not familiar with the language. Shaking hands is customary in Oman. The handclasp is usually light (the hearty western style handshake can be interpreted as being overly aggressive) and is sometimes accompanied by placing the other hand over the heart to indicate sincerity.

Kissing between men is also a common form of greeting, usually reserved for family and close friends, consisting of a light touch to both cheeks, sometimes repeated. In the desert, Bedouin men will lightly touch noses while making the kissing sound. If you are invited into an Omani household it is customary to remove your shoes at the front door.

Your host will invariably serve Omani coffee (qawa) and fruits, usually fresh or dried dates, oranges and melon. It is considered impolite to refuse this offering and you may decline only after the first ... more.

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