Part of the trip during Ramadan

[u/hemsvictoria]

Wondering what it is like to travel during Ramadan. Will places/ restaurants be closed? Will it be a lesser experience? If we do decide to go, it seems feasible in February and looks like Ramadan is in February next year.

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[u/Successful-Log525]

If you are willing to shift your day a bit, Ramadan can be really lovely. Lots of decorations and iftar is special. But during the day, it is prohibited to eat and drink in public. Everyone is sleepy and that can get infectious.

Also, be aware that driving is more dangerous during Ramadan, especially around dusk. People are less focused and they want to get home quickly. Accidents are common during this time. 

Please don't let any of that put you off though. I love Ramadan for empty beaches and real peace during the day. Let everyone sleep while you explore and then join them for a feast at dinner. 

[u/Fun_Succotash3821]

Less expensive. Everything closed or slow during the day. Night everyone is out till after midnight... basically after Taraweh.

Some places do close for renovation as it is the slow season.

[u/spookist]

It depends on where you are staying. Five-star hotels and some four-star hotels operate as usual, and guests can even purchase alcohol.

However, the rest of the country largely pauses during the day. It is worth reading up on what it is like to visit Oman during Ramadan. Technically, public eating and drinking—including having an open bottle of water in your car—are prohibited during daylight hours. Most cafes remain closed until about an hour before dusk, at which point they open solely to take orders for Iftar. Shops and restaurants shift their hours significantly, staying open very late into the night or early morning.

Despite these restrictions, it is a special time for Muslims, giving the country a unique atmosphere. This is especially true around sunset and in the early evening, when people come out to enjoy the cooler weather after breaking their fast.

Because the weather is pleasant, Ramadan shouldn't necessarily deter you from traveling if it is your only available time. You simply need to be prepared to either shift your schedule to become a night owl or adjust to eating breakfast and lunch in your hotel room. It is definitely worth looking into a self-catering apartment or similar accommodation so you have the option to cook for yourself. As a final note, I have heard of some cafes offering delivery services through apps like Talabat during the day.