Oman Food and Drink
Omani cuisine reflects the country's long history as a trading nation, blending Arabian, Indian, Persian and East African influences into a rich and varied culinary tradition. Meals are usually hearty, aromatic and often shared, with rice, grilled meats and seafood forming the backbone of most dishes. Spices such as saffron, cardamom, cinnamon and cloves are used generously, but rarely overpower the food; Omani cooking tends to be flavourful rather than fiery.
In coastal areas, fresh fish is a staple, served grilled, baked or in stews with fragrant rice. Chicken and lamb are also widely eaten, while dates and halwa (a sweet made from rose water, sugar and ghee) are enjoyed at the end of a meal or offered with Omani coffee. Meals are often accompanied by laban, a refreshing yoghurt drink that helps to balance the heat and spices.
Restaurants in Muscat and other large cities offer a wide range of options, from local cafés and traditional eateries to high-end international dining. Indian, Lebanese and Turkish restaurants are common, and hotel buffets typically include an excellent selection of regional dishes. Street food stalls serve shawarma, samosas and fresh fruit juices, providing a quick and satisfying taste of local flavours.
Oman's approach to food is communal and hospitable. Eating together is seen as a way to share not just food but friendship, and visitors will often be invited to join locals for a meal or coffee. Alcohol is available only in licensed hotels and restaurants, while fresh juices and coffee remain the everyday favourites throughout the country.
Specialities
Shuwa: Considered Oman's national dish, shuwa is slow-cooked meat, usually lamb or goat, marinated with spices and wrapped in banana or palm leaves before being cooked in an underground sand oven for up to 48 hours. The result is tender, smoky and deeply aromatic, traditionally prepared during festivals and shared with family and neighbours.
Mashuai: A classic coastal dish, mashuai features whole spit-roasted kingfish served with lemon-flavoured rice. It captures the simplicity and freshness of Oman's seaside cuisine and is often found in both homes and restaurants along the coast.
Majboos (or Kabsa): Fragrant rice cooked with saffron, spices and either chicken, lamb or fish. Each household has its own version, making it one of the most comforting and widely enjoyed dishes in Oman.
Harees: A creamy porridge made from wheat and meat, simmered slowly until smooth. It's particularly popular during Ramadan and festive occasions, appreciated for its gentle flavour and filling nature.
Halwa: This rich Omani sweet is made from sugar, ghee, rose water, cardamom and nuts, and has a smooth, jelly-like texture. It's traditionally served with Arabic coffee and symbolises hospitality and celebration.
Omani coffee (qahwa): Lightly roasted and infused with cardamom, cloves and rose water, Omani coffee is served in small cups without milk or sugar. It is a sign of welcome and is often accompanied by dates.
Luqaimat: Deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey or date syrup, often enjoyed during Ramadan. Crisp on the outside and soft inside, they are irresistible with tea or coffee.
Dates: Omani dates are among the best in the region, eaten fresh, dried or stuffed with nuts. They are served to guests as a gesture of warmth and generosity.
Laban: A salty, chilled yoghurt drink found throughout the Gulf. It's both refreshing and soothing, especially in Oman's heat.
Things to know
Alcohol in Oman is strictly regulated. It is available only in licensed hotels, restaurants and private clubs, and consumption outside these venues is illegal. Non-Muslim residents may apply for a personal liquor permit to purchase alcohol for home use, but tourists cannot obtain such a licence. Visitors are permitted to drink only in licensed establishments. Importing alcohol is restricted to the duty-free allowance for non-Muslims, and public drinking or appearing intoxicated in public is a serious offence.
Tipping
Tipping in Oman is appreciated but not obligatory. In hotels and upmarket restaurants, a 10% service charge is often included in the bill; if not, leaving a small tip of a similar amount is considered polite. In cafés and casual eateries, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is perfectly acceptable. Taxi drivers and porters do not expect large tips, though rounding up the fare or giving one or two rials for good service is a nice gesture. In general, tipping is viewed as a sign of appreciation rather than a strict custom.
Drinking age
The legal drinking age (for non-Muslims only) is 21.
