Arab, Omani in Oman

Introduction / History

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 that was seen by them 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.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Omani Arabs live in extended family units. Their society is patriarchal, or male dominated. The men seldom abuse this authority because they believe that their families should obey them out of respect rather than fear.
There are clearly defined roles for both sexes. Even the children are given gender-specific duties. The men work outside in the fields while women work in the homes. Men and women often eat separately and never pray together. While men worship at mosques, women attend ceremonies conducted at home by female religious leaders. Marriages are generally pre-arranged by the parents. Children are a considered the family's greatest asset because they provide the parents with additional laborers and social security.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Omani Arabs were among the first people in the Middle East to accept Islam. 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. 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. Sunnis are welcomed by the Ibadis with Sunni greetings.

What Are Their Needs?

There are few if any Christ followers among Omani Arabs no matter where they live. Almost all are satisfied with the works-righteousness of Islam. They need spiritual hunger.

Prayer Points

Pray for a spiritual discernment and hunger that will allow Omani Arabs to seek and find Christ.
Pray for Holy Spirit-directed believers to go to the Omani Arabs.
Pray for a Christ-ward movement to spread far and wide among Omani Arabs.

Text Source:   Joshua Project