Women in Working Life
Between Tradition and Progress: The Change in Women's Employment in Oman
Between Tradition and Progress: The Change in Women's Employment in Oman
There is a quote by Sultan Qaboos, in which he says: 'Uneducated women cannot raise free children, and neglected women can never properly care for others. If women are not trained for their roles, they can contribute nothing to the progress of this country.'
This shows that in Oman, women are viewed in a completely different light than in most other Arab or Islamic countries. A merit of the Sultan, who has gradually opened the country for Western values and views over the past almost five decades, without betraying the identity and beliefs of his country. He merely pointed out that women also play an important role in Islam and that it works better when they are treated as partners at eye level and not condescended to.
Women in Oman - more successful than in other Arab countries
The Sultanate on the Gulf of Oman, which is as large as Germany in terms of area, occupies a unique position in the Arab world. For example, in countries like the United Arab Emirates, where the outwardly promoted openness only applies to foreigners, women still have a very hard time.
In contrast, much has changed in Oman in recent decades. Here, for instance, women run their own businesses or hold various positions in the public service. Even a ministerial position has already been held by a woman. The development in Oman encourages the entire Arab world, as it shows that in an Islamic country, extreme gender inequality does not always have to prevail.
Progress is evident
Of course, the number of women in the aforementioned areas of employment is still lower than, for example, in Germany. For instance, in the public service, there are still almost two men for every woman. However, there are various images that complete the impression of Oman: Women confidently sitting behind the wheel of their vehicles, eating together with their male colleagues in the company canteen, or going alone to cafes and enjoying the day. Even though traditional clothing from Eastern societies still shapes the streetscape – progress is more evident in Oman than anywhere else in the Arab world.
Discover Oman with experts who have called it their home
Your dream holiday, tailor-made by experts.
We don't just know Oman from books, we visit the country several times a year to experience the culture, landscape and people first-hand.
From your first enquiry to your return home, we are there for you personally - by phone, email or WhatsApp, whenever you need us. Our trips are as unique as you are: individually planned and provided with exclusive privileges and high-quality arrangements that will make your trip unforgettable.
Experts for your Oman trip
You might also like this
Rub al Khali
The largest contiguous sand desert in the world, the Rub al Khali desert, also covers parts of southern Oman. 650,000 square kilometers of sand and stone – there is not much more to be found here. The desert is so inhospitable and so poor in oases that it is hardly inhabited. No wonder it is called ‘the empty quarter’, for that is exactly what ‘Rub al Khali’ means. Almost a third of the Arabian Peninsula is covered by it. It spans the territories of four countries: Oman, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates. The largest desert on Earth has a lot to offer In the Rub al Khali lies...
Top Attractions in Oman
Oman, the land of endless deserts and picturesque coastlines, captivates travelers with a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you're eager to immerse yourself in the Sultanate's rich culture, be enchanted by its natural beauty, or explore historic landmarks, Oman's attractions promise a variety of unforgettable experiences. In this article, we introduce you to five of the most impressive places you must experience during your trip to Oman....