What to Wear as a Woman in Oman?

Wondering what to wear in Oman? Whether you’re heading to Muscat, the beach, mountains or the desert, this helpful guide will help you pack for your trip.

Hijab in Oman

Female visitors to Oman are not required to wear a hijab, but it is recommended to dress modestly.

This means covering the shoulders and knees, and avoiding tight or revealing clothing. If you plan to visit a mosque, you will need to cover your head and wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.

Dress Modestly, Even When Swimming

Swimming in public places like beaches and wadis often involves wearing a t-shirt and shorts, and respecting local customs and traditions is crucial. Indeed, it's wise to avoid clothing that could be perceived as disrespectful or inappropriate.

Men should avoid tank tops and instead wear shirts or t-shirts with trousers or shorts that are at least knee-length. While visiting mosques, men must wear full-length jeans or pants.

Outside of swimming pools located in international resorts and hotels in Muscat, swimsuits and bikinis are inappropriate. This is true for natural pools located in the wadis (valleys) that you might come across while hiking in places like Wadi Tiwi and on public beaches around fishing villages.

While it's true that skimpy bathing suits are becoming more common among foreigners in these areas, it's important to keep in mind that Omanis also frequent these places. You might notice Omani men swimming in t-shirts and shorts – this should give you an idea of how important modesty is in the culture.

While swimming on public beaches visited by Omani families and pools close to villages, women will appear more considerate when they’re wearing a long t-shirt and shorts over their swimsuits.