Introduction / History

Omani Arabs were among the first people in the Middle East to accept Islam. Arabs have inhabited the territory that is now Oman for thousands of years. Omanis at one time had influence along the East African coast, including what is now Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar. Large numbers of Omanis migrated to Zanzibar and the Swahili coast of East Africa during a time when they viewed it as a land of opportunity. They prospered there until a bloody revolution forced most of them to return to Oman. Today, some of them are fleeing Oman because of poverty, seeking employment elsewhere. It is unlikely that Tanzania offers as excellent opportunities as some of the Gulf States closer to Oman. Omani Arabs originate in Oman, but they live in five other countries including Kenya and Tanzania. There is a small population of Omani Arabs in the United States.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Omani Arabs live in extended families. Family ties and religious traditions are strong. The Oman Arab standard is to accept others on their terms. For example, they view anything less than excessive generosity as rudeness. Their society is patriarchal, or male-dominated. The men seldom abuse this authority because they believe their families should obey them out of respect rather than fear. Also, there are clearly defined roles for both sexes. Even the children have gender-specific duties. Such conservative ways of doing things are likely to be challenged as the Omanis live in the United States and other Western nations.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Oman Arabs belong to the Ibadi sect of Islam, one of the religion's oldest and most traditional branches. Ibadi principles of puritanism and idealism have greatly influenced Arabs in surrounding countries. Sunnis are welcomed by the Ibadis with Sunni greetings.

What Are Their Needs?

Though there are a small number of Christians among the Omani Arabs in the United States, they have a long way to go to reach everyone with the gospel. American Christians can reach out to them if they are willing.

Prayer Items

Pray for a spiritual discernment and hunger that will allow Omani Arabs in the United States to seek and find Christ. Pray for Holy Spirit-directed believers to go to the Omani Arabs in the United States. Pray for Omani disciples in America to make more disciples who will make even more.

Scripture Prayers for the Arab, Omani in United States.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Omani_diaspora_in_the_United_States
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:American_people_of_Omani_descent
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arab_Americans