Building a New Oman:
The Hijab Factor

Dr. Linda Pappas Funsch
Professor, History and Political Science
Hood College, Frederick, Maryland

July 12, 2006

Overview: Tradition and Modernization

Contrary to carefully cultivated and deeply-entrenched Western beliefs and stereotypes, the role of women in the Arab world is not confined purely to the domestic realm, that of mother and housewife.

Although those roles are highly respected and valued for their own sake within Arab and Islamic culture, women in those deeply traditional societies are increasingly visible in the workplace and in the polling place, working side-by-side with their male counterparts on the road to national development.

Omani women are no different. Having played a vital role in the Sultanate for as long as that ancient society has existed, women, in today's Oman, fill many roles in addition to those which complement family values.

While they may once have been content to be dutiful housewives and mothers, perhaps supplementing the family income with a little local trading or through weaving and handicrafts, women in this Arabian Sultanate are today at the forefront of national life.

The Omani Renaissance, marked by the accession to power of H.M. Sultan Qaboos bin Sa'id Al-Sa'id in 1970 signaled a new era for all citizens of this diverse and ancient land. Females were afforded, for the first time, universal access to education and guaranteed a role in nation building.

Myriad opportunities continue to unfold as Omani women take their rightful place in the national dynamic.

Beware the "Cultural Veneer"

"Omani women enjoy liberation as they hold to traditions"

Governments and societies of the Middle East are regularly characterized in the West as holding their women in virtual bondage, suppressing their freedoms and ignoring the vast potential of females.

On the contrary, in Oman, it is immediately evident to even the most casual observer that, while women often pursue the freedom to dress as they wish by choosing to wear modest and traditional attire, their potential and ambitions are far from suppressed.

Cultural authenticity, as reflected in a unique and enduring national identity, will continue to inspire the people of Oman as they grow and modernize.

And therein, lies much of the charm of this fascinating country's charm.

Sultan Qaboos , Advocate for Change

Following the palace coup that brought Sultan Qaboos to power in 1970, Oman's new leader repeatedly called upon female citizens to lend their full support to the continuing development of their country, frequently describing them as representing "half of Oman's potential."

"Many years ago I said that if the energy, capability and enthusiasm of women were excluded from a country's active life, then that country would be depriving itself of 50 percent of its genius.

I have taken very good care that this should not happen to Oman, and I look forward to the further progress of women in my country with the greatest pleasure and confidence."

Underscoring the expanded role that women would inevitably play in Omani society, Sultan Qaboos draws on Islamic teachings to emphasize his support for women's rights.

He condemns those who would relegate women to subservient positions in society and, instead, invites women to assume myriad responsibilities in the development of their country.

Omani women, encouraged by their monarch's commitment to national welfare, have mobilized, eager to participate in all aspects of their nation's growth.

In the early years of his reign, women were engaged in the armed forces and in the police force. They entered business, government service, and technical establishments.

They responded by seeking and securing jobs from supermarket check-out assistant to government minister.

Today, many hold prominent political positions, oversee their own successful businesses, and volunteer in local communities... committed to playing a meaningful role in the New Oman.

"Omanization"

A major stumbling block confronting Oman currently and in the future is the formidable challenge of employing thousands of its young citizens, recent school graduates ...eager to take their place in the nation's job market.

The majority of Oman's population (60%) is under age 18.

Estimates suggest that 500,000 youngsters will be ready to enter the job market in the next five years.

"Omanization" efforts are underway, aimed at three things: reducing unemployment, limiting dependence on foreign workers, and diversifying the country's economy away from reliance on hydrocarbon extraction and production.

Under this program, the government is encouraging the replacement of foreign expatriate workers (particularly those from India and the United Kingdom) with local workers.

The Sanad Initiative

One manifestation of this national mandate is Oman's Sanad (support) initiative, a program designed to encourage young Omani job seekers to establish their own businesses.

Under this program, several trade and professions have been exclusively earmarked for nationals within a time-bound schedule, replacing expatriates throughout the country.

Education

• 1970: no schools for girls in Oman; 3 schools for boys (students personally selected by Sultan)
• 1984: 84% adult women illiterate
• 2002: 34.6% adult women illiterate, and rapidly declining (Remembering that the older generation of Omani women were still illiterate because they had not had access to education.)

Oman's Personal Status Laws (PSL) guarantee women equal rights in both education and employment.

Today, in education, women in Oman have achieved gender parity with men; this is borne out by a 2003 UNICEF report, praising Oman's achievement in closing the education gender gap

These are two photos (below) that I shot in my recent visit to Oman; schoolchildren are everywhere. The picture on the left is from the old interior capital of Niza; the picture on the right is in as far remote a place you can imagine in Oman. It's a place called Khasab on the tip of the Musandam Peninsula overlooking the Straits of Hormuz. Education is everywhere.

Secondary schools

For more than a decade, girls have achieved high honors,
As they pursue...

Post-secondary Public education

• Sultan Qaboos University (est. 1986)
  15,000 total enrollment
  50% female undergrad's.
  (NB: 63% of Omani undergrad's. studying abroad are women)
  35% female grad. students
  (contains 8 different colleges)

  In addition to SQU, there are:

  • 6 Colleges of Education
  • 5 Technical Industrial Colleges
  • 14 Health Institutes
  • 1 Institute of Bankers

Public education, including higher education, is government-funded and free to Omani nationals.

Admission is based on academic achievement and merit.

Post-secondary Private education

• 3 Universities
• 16 Private Colleges

Although Oman was the last of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to inaugurate universal education, its young women are in the forefront in that country, both in terms of achieving gender equality in education and in the workplace and ultimately, by assuming greater responsibility in national affairs.

These are two students on the right at the Sultan School outside of Muscat. It's a private school with a very high level of education. I spent the morning with these students, getting an education of how exceptional their education is. They participated in the International Baccalaureate Programme, if that is familiar to you. They are totally bilingual; to hear them speak about their aspirations and the future was extremely heartwarming. In fact, the young lady on the left is the niece of the current Minister of Tourism in Oman, who happens to be a woman.

Women's Role in Omanization

As women represent almost half the Sultanate's population, they are strongly encouraged to play their part in the country's social and economic development, alongside their male counterparts.

Accordingly, current development plans place a high priority on the role and essential contributions of women.

In this context, it is acknowledged working women require training. Training, especially in the areas of Information Technology, Business Management, and English support this objective.

Women's Training Centers have been established, some by the government and others through local initiatives. The goal of these centers is to improve the productivity of Omani families while helping to preserve the country's heritage by teaching traditional crafts and skills.

One example of the centers is:

Noor al-Huda Vocational Institute, est'd. 1999
Goal: training Omani youngsters for various jobs available in the country's labor market.

There are, at present, four government centers as well as six non-governmental centers across the country. These centers are charged with helping to raise women's awareness about cultural, health and social issues, develop their productive skills and enable them to make profitable use of their leisure time. The Centers also provide facilities such as kindergartens, information programs, and networking opportunities.

Cultural Preservation: The Omani Heritage Gallery

Muna Richie, in partnership with her mother, established the first not-for-profit organization in Oman: the Omani Heritage Gallery.
The organization is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Omani crafts industry.

All proceeds from the sale of products are directed to developing the crafts industry in the future and encouraging Omani craftsmen.
"The aim of Omani Heritage Gallery is to provide income- generating opportunities, assistance to the craftsmen, service to the consumer market and the redirection of the profits to assure the continuance of these valuable crafts which form an inherent part of the culture that is uniquely Omani."

You see this unique dynamic in Oman all the time; it's very forward-looking and very "modern," if you will. They never, for a moment, lose sight of their heritage, whether it be in their architecture, in their education or in their local industries.

In this context of preserving Omani heritage, rural and Bedouin women are of particular importance in the New Oman. Both Government and local leaders are at work to enable them to showcase their crafts while they improve their economic and social and standards.

These photos give you an idea about the dress of Omani rural women – it varies considerably. They're not all covered in black shrouds; rather, they're very colorful ... and also very chatty.

Women in the Workplace

While there are no official figures available, it is likely that Oman has the highest number of working women among the six Arab GCC states, which also include Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.

In addition to maintaining their vital role as homemakers, women are involved in all areas of life, working as doctors, dentists, teachers, bankers and entrepreneurs.

At the airports, female officers work alongside male Omanis at baggage handling and security checks.

At hotels throughout the Sultanate, Omani desk receptionists are just as likely to be women as men.

Their progress is reflected not only in employment figures, but also in the variety of fields as well as in the increasingly high positions they are assuming in both the private and public sectors.

Educated Omani women continue to attain positions of authority in Government, Business, and the Media.

Employment

The Ministry of Social Development serves as the umbrella ministry for women's affairs in Oman. Much of its support is channeled through the Oman's Women's Association and local community development centers.

Workers' Protections

• In both public and private sectors, women are entitled to maternity leave (40 days paid) and equal pay for equal work;
• Gender discrimination in the workplace is prohibited
• Social Security system provides for old-age pensions, disability, medical and survivorship benefits to employed citizens (contributions shared by employees, gov't., and employers)
• Retirement: 60 yrs. for men; 55 yrs. for women

Civil Service and Government Jobs

The Government is the largest employer of women.

• Approx. 33% (figures vary) Government employees are female; with 13% senior management positions held by women

Women in the Police Force

Royal Oman Police:

• 1972: two women were recruited for searching female passengers at Oman former airport of Bayt Al-Falaj
• 1974: first detachment of policewomen were recruited & trained, alongside male counterparts. at the Police Training School
• Today, the numbers of women in the force has increased dramatically, some reaching rank of officers
• Some assigned to Directorate of Criminal Investigations to deal with females involved in crimes or witnesses;
• Others assigned to Directorate of Prisons

Entering New Fields

• April 2004: Oman Air hired the first female avionics engineer in Gulf region
  "I would like to encourage Omani women to shed any hesitation that may keep them away form achieving their goals"
  - Alia Abdel Haffedh Al-Qalam
• April, 2004: first female heavy vehicle driving instructor hired; 32-yr old mother of 5
• Feb., 2006: graduation of first group of Omani women hairstylists and beauticians, completing training under a gover- sponsored program at Noor al-Huda Vocational Institiute (see above)

Women in Sports

• Dec. 2005: first women's national soccer team organized in Oman (preceded in Gulf by U.A.E.)
• Oman's Ministry of Sports Affairs has "Women's Sports Development Committee"

Omani women already engage in basketball, tennis, sailing and karate; training centers spread throughout country.

Women in Business ... ‘the sound of breaking glass"

Women may dispose of their own property and enter into business contracts freely. Major corporations, with a stake in Oman's development, have also weighed in on this initiative.

• Shell Group, active in Oman
  Has launched "global female attraction recruitment drive" as part of its commitment to increase the numbers of Omani women in the workforce

The UNDP has recognized Oman as one of the world's progressive states in the Gulf region in the area of women's rights. Oman stands out as a model for other countries in the Gulf.

Spotlight on Businesswoman Sabrah Al-Riyami:

Sabrah Al-Riyami: Business and Tourism

Sabrah Al-Riyami, is co-founder of Darran Tours, a leading specialized tour and events coordinating company. She operates this highly successful enterprise with her husband and business partner, a native of Egypt.

"Being a local company serving both the locals and foreigners' needs for tourism or events coordination is an advantage, because we can bring something more unique to their desires than an outside company can."

(Darren Tours specializes in handling ground arrangements for major national events, such as National Day celebrations, conferences, exhibitions and tournaments for VIPs and foreign delegates. In addition, the company can coordinate organized tours of the desert, mountains, deep-sea fishing trips and other similar tours.)

In December 2003, the first Arab GCC Businesswomen's Forum, was organized by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) in co-operation with the GCC secretariat general. The forum was aimed at giving Omani women an opportunity to meet and exchange views with other businesswomen from around the GCC.

In April 2004, the first "Women in Focus" event took place in Muscat. "Women in Focus" – Oman's first professional female business forum –provides an excellent networking opportunity and a chance to listen to a variety of keynote speakers from around the world. The Omani women's response to the event was described as "overwhelming."

Political Participation

Soon after he assumed power, Sultan Qaboos articulated his desire to increase the involvement of women in Oman's government.
Women's political rights, previously non-existent in the conservative Arab Gulf states, have undergone extraordinary growth in recent years.

• 1997: Sultan permitted women to stand for election in lower chamber (Majlis A'-Shura) or Consultative Council of its bi-cameral legislature which questions ministers on economic and social policy; two women were elected.
• 2002: Sultan announced universal suffrage for all citizens over age 21

Women in Government

While other politically conservative Arab states of the Gulf region have the poorest rankings in the Middle East region, Oman has the highest ranking among its neighbors with regard to women's representation in national legislatures.

Women are playing an increasingly influential role in the Majlis A- Dawla (State Council) and in the Majlis A- Shura (Consultative Council).

• Majlis A'Dawla:
  Currently, 8 women serve, all appointed by Sultan
• Majlis A'Shura elections, 2003:
  According to the Minister of Interior:
  • More women encouraged to participate in voting
  • 100,000 of 262,000 registered voters were women (in the last 2003 elections for the Majlis A'Shura)
  • There were 15 female candidates (only 2 were elected)
  • For the first time, candidates were permitted to campaign
  • Quote from one prominent female candidate and community leader: "It's not just about women's issues. I represent both men and women in my community"

Council of Ministers

3 women are Government Ministers (with a 4th holding an equivalent rank as President of the Public Authority for Crafts Industries)
There are 2 Undersecretaries in the Government.

2004 Highlights:

• Dr. Rawyah bin Masoud bin Ahmad el-Bouseidi named Minister of Higher Education (March)
  NB: Significance: The first woman appointed to high government office w/in Arab GCC countries
• Woman appointed as Minister of Social Development (October)
• 5 women were among 30 newly appointed public prosecutors and attorneys general to the legislature (April)

Oman is justifiably proud to have been the first Arab country to appoint a woman as a foreign Ambassador.

In 1999, a woman became her country's highest diplomatic emissary to the Netherlands.

She was followed by H.E. Ambassador Hunaina bint Sultan Al-Mughairy, currently serving with distinction as Ambassador to the United States.

In 2003, an Omani woman was appointed head of the United Nations Information Centre, based in Geneva, Switzerland, with authority over an international network of 77 information centers and more than 300 staff.

Volunteering and Networking

(Reference Dawn Chatty, "Women working in Oman," International Journal of M.E. Studies, May 2000)

"In the M.E., more so than in other parts of the world, there exists a resistance and a hesitancy on the part of the government to allow women to come together in formal groups. Such groups are considered threatening in conservative regimes because they challenge the state's rigid control of women."

Omani Women's Association

The leading organization of women in the country; it's a governmental organization, but one which strongly encourages women to volunteer toward the development of their communities.

OWA provides a channel for voluntary work and child welfare services throughout the Sultanate. At the end of 2003, there were 39 OWA's across the country, with 3,000 members.

Typical OWA activities include sponsoring lectures on health and society, lectures, kindergarten services, and handicraft training programs; also, informal counseling and legal advice relating to domestic issues.

Spotlight on Rayya Al-Riyami: Omani Women's Association/Community Service

Rayya Al-Riyami, college lecturer, member of the Omani Women's Association and a dedicated volunteer to her community, one soon realizes the impact of Omani women in their society.

Most of her effort focuses on building up the self-image of Omani women and helping them continue their studies in pursuit of their personal goals.

Ms. Al-Riyami has been director of Oman's Girl Guides.

She was one of the few women who stood for election when Sultan Qaboos established a Majlis al-Shura consultative council to convey to him popular sentiments from different parts of the country. Although her campaign was unsuccessful, two other women were appointed to the Council.

"Community Service is my passion," she said, adding that motivating young Omani women "is beneficial in the long run in Oman's social status."

Training, Networking for Journalists

In 2003, Muscat hosted a three-day training course for women journalists in which 26 women participated from Oman, Kuwait, Yemen, Bahrain and UAE.

"Women Expo 2005"

In December 2005, Oman's first-ever exclusive exhibition for women was held at the Oman International Exhibition Center. Ran for 5 days.

The female Undersecretary for Education & Curricula opened event.

Objective of Expo: to promote women's empowerment

"To showcase everything that makes women unique and enables them to lead productive lives."

Content of Expo:

• On display were innovative products and services designed to effectively serve the needs of today's woman.
• Featured educational opportunities available to women, products for proper childcare, and healthcare information and services.
• Series of seminars, focusing on professional skill development, entrepreneurship, and major health issues.
• Admission limited to women.

Women Expo 2006 (Dec. 3-8)

So successful was the 2005 expo that this December, the second Women's Expo is being planned in Muscat, again over a period of five days.

• The only one of its kind in the Gulf
• Second year; more comprehensive
• Venue: Oman International Exhibition Center
• General Manager of Omanexpo, C.J.Paul, organizer of event:

"Women Expo fully supports the International Women's Day objective of highlighting women's equality worldwide and inspiring them to achieve their full potential."

Focus:

In addition to beauty products and the latest fashion, the exhibition will feature educational opportunities available for women and raise awareness on serious health problems that commonly affect them.

Also, home improvement, wedding concepts, and proper child care.

"Our ultimate objective is for Women Expo to contribute to women's empowerment in the Sultanate... Women have an important role to play in the country's continued economic and social development, and a growing number of women are proving that they are up to the challenge."

Workshops/seminars with leading female role models and professionals (Refer to program...)

Women as consumers

Women as consumers is something that is discussed increasingly in Oman. Consumer issues are certainly included in Women's Expo activities. I was surprised to read that Gulf women spend a staggering $1.7 billion a year on beauty products. "The potential customer base for women's products continues to expand," again defying the commonly held stereotype about Arab and Muslim women.
A significant increase in the numbers of fashion-conscious consumers in Gulf region

Conclusion

Although Oman is the last of the GCC countries to inaugurate universal education, Omani women stand in the forefront of those countries, both achieving gender equality in the workplace and in assuming full responsibility for affairs of their country. I will end by quoting the ruler of Oman, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. "We are making progress, but quietly, slowly. I believe in evolution, but not in sudden evolution. The progress we have made is irreversible." I can certainly say that about the Hijab factor in Oman. Thank you very much.

Page last updated 05/07/2007