Uniquely Positioned to Gather Diverse Groups

Nestled in the captivating Arabian Peninsula, Oman is a land of cultural diversity and breathtaking beauty.

With its strategic location and long-standing history of stability, Oman holds a unique place in the world—conducive for Al Amana Centre’s mission of fostering peaceful and productive dialogue among different faith groups.

Crossroads of Connection

Situated at the crossroads of continents, Oman serves as a natural meeting point, inviting individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together and engage in meaningful conversations. Its central location makes it easily accessible to people from around the globe, facilitating connections and enabling fruitful exchanges of ideas. Oman’s commitment to safety and stability further bolsters the effectiveness of Al Amana Centre, creating an atmosphere where open dialogue can thrive.

Open Borders, Open Hearts

Beyond its geographical advantages, Oman’s welcoming political climate plays a vital role in promoting interfaith dialogue. The nation embraces a tradition of tolerance and respect for different cultures and beliefs. This ethos encourages open-mindedness, laying the foundation for constructive discussions and the development of mutual understanding. With a history that spans 125 years of collaboration between Christians and Muslims, Al Amana Centre draws on Oman’s rich legacy to further foster dialogue and bridge divides.

About

Traditional Omani Dhow

Culture & Cuisine

Oman is a country brimming with culture, architecture, and art. Its history as a major trade hub has fostered a diverse and rich cultural heritage. Omani culture is characterized by warm hospitality and modesty, reflected in their gracious hosting traditions and traditional attire. Majestic forts, castles, and iconic landmarks like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque showcase the country’s impressive architecture, while intricate handcrafted wooden doors, date palm baskets, and exquisite jewelry highlight its artistic prowess.

Oman’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors influenced by Indian culinary traditions. While everyday meals consist of rice, chicken or fish, fruits, and vegetables, weekends offer a chance to savor barbeques by the beach or in a tranquil wadi. Don’t miss out on experiencing the famous slow-roasted spiced goat dish called Shuwa or indulging in the sugary delight of Helwa, a dessert infused with rosewater and saffron. Additionally, Shawarma and refreshing fresh juices are readily available, making the culinary scene in Oman both diverse and satisfying.

Religion

Oman embraces a diverse religious landscape with a predominant adherence to Islam. Islam plays a central role in Omani society, shaping its customs, values, and daily life. The country respects religious freedom and showcases tolerance and respect for other faiths, allowing for the peaceful coexistence of various religious communities. Mosques are plentiful and serve as important spiritual and community centers. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque stands as a remarkable architectural masterpiece, symbolizing Oman’s commitment to Islamic heritage. Alongside Islam, Oman also recognizes and values the contributions of other religions, fostering an environment of religious harmony and inclusivity.

Muslim

Ibadhi and Sunni Muslims in Oman make up the majority. There are also Shi’a communities within Oman. One of the most prominent Shi’a communities is the Lawati community located in Muttrah. Shi’a are allowed to practice particularities of their religious tradition and law, so long as it doesn’t contradict Oman’s Basic Law.

Oman is the only country where the majority of the country follows the Ibadhi Tradition. Ibadhism is an old tradition dating back to the earliest days of Islam.

Mosques are open to all Muslims, regardless of sect or tradition. It is also seen as impolite to inquire about a person’s religious sect, and it is illegal to degenerate an other’s religious beliefs.

Christian

There are four recognized Christian church campuses in Oman, two in Muscat and one each in Sohar and Salalah. These campuses are shared by Protestants, Catholics, and Orthodox Christians. Each group maintains their own buildings and worship space. The Catholic and Orthodox clergy are managed by their respective hierarchies.

The Protestant Church in Oman oversees more than eighty different worshiping congregations in Oman. Worshipping congregations are typically formed by different linguistic and ethnic groups from various protestant traditions. All protestant congregations generally stem from internationally recognized Christian denominations or organizations.

Christians in Oman come from all over the world and from all continents and are mainly guest workers and their families.

Christian church campuses are near mosques. The largest Christian Campus in Oman is located less than two kilometers from the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

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Hindu

There are four Hindu Temples in Oman.

The Shri Shiva Temple, located in the Old Muscat area of Muscat, is thought to be over one hundred years old. The Shri Shiva Temple also contains Shri Adi Motishwar Mahalev, Shri Motishawr Mahadev and Shri Hanumanji temples as well. Approximately 3500-6000 devotees visit the temple each week, and religious celebrations are conducted throughout the year.

The Shri Krishna temple is located in Darsait/Ruwi, near mosques and a Christian Church compound, and it also contains a Shri Ganeshji and a Shri Mataji temple on the premises. Around 4500-5500 devotees visit this temple each week.

There are also Krishna Temples located in Salalah and Sohar.

Sikh

There is a Sikh Gurudwara, Gurudwara Singh Sabha, in Ghala near the Christian Church compound in Ghala in a privately owned building.

Buddhist

There are a small number of Buddhists in Oman. There is a Buddhist shrine on the Shri Krishna Temple compound in Ruwi and a Buddhist Temple in the Sri Lankan Embassy.

Other Religions

There are other various religious groups in Oman including Jains and Zoroastrians.

Details for Your Visit

To ensure you are well-prepared for your visit, we recommend reviewing the Frequently Asked Questions for detailed information.

FAQ

Uniquely Positioned to Gather Diverse Groups

Nestled in the captivating Arabian Peninsula, Oman is a land of cultural diversity and breathtaking beauty.

With its strategic location and long-standing history of stability, Oman holds a unique place in the world—conducive for Al Amana Centre’s mission of fostering peaceful and productive dialogue among different faith groups.

Crossroads of Connection

Open Borders, Open Hearts

About

Culture & Cuisine

Religion

Muslim

Christian

Hindu

Sikh

Buddhist

Other Religions

Details for Your Visit

About

Media