Oman: Ramadan to begin May 15-16

Event

On May 15-16, Muslims in Oman and elsewhere in the world will begin their month-long celebration of Ramadan. The end of the month of Ramadan, marked by Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, will take place between June 14-16. Though practices can vary by country, businesses, restaurants, and government administrations may operate on a reduced schedule during this holy month.

Transportation disruptions are to be anticipated during this period due to increased number of travelers, especially in airports. Heavy traffic after sundown (particularly on weekends) is to be anticipated as Muslims typically gather to celebrate the holy month with family. Furthermore, traffic accidents tend to increase during Ramadan (especially at dusk) due to a combination of exhaustion, hunger, dehydration, and impatience.

Local authorities typically report a heightened terrorism threat during the month of Ramadan, and increased security measures should be expected in major urban areas. Authorities also typically observe an increase in incidents of petty crime during this period.

Context

Ramadan is a period of reflection and self-restraint and it carries great significance within the Muslim calendar. Muslims traditionally observe daytime fasting and are called to practice increased devotion and abstain from certain activities.

Though Oman has no recent history of terrorist-linked violence, the small neutral sultanate faces a heightened terror threat. According to Omani officials, regional instability, especially in neighboring Yemen, could create opportunities for militant groups, including Islamic State (IS), to expand into new areas.

More generally, this period also marks a significant increase in the regional terror threat in many Muslim-majority countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. In recent years, IS, as well as other groups, have called on their fighters to perpetrate attacks during the holy month of Ramadan.

Advice

It is advised not to eat, drink, or smoke in public throughout this period to avoid drawing undue attention to yourself. Travelers are also advised to allow additional time for travel and to avoid any form of public demonstration or public gathering.

Though the country remains one of the most stable in the Middle East, individuals in Oman are advised to be vigilant, report any suspicious devices or behavior to local authorities, and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities. Moreover, due to a poor security situation currently prevailing in Yemen, travel near the Yemeni border (south) is strongly advised against.