Oman is a rapidly developing country in the Middle East, with a growing retail industry. In this article, we will discuss typical opening hours of shops, forms of payment accepted, major supermarkets in Oman, online shopping popularity, expat-specific shops, and consumer rights.
Typical opening hours of shops in Oman and forms of payment accepted
Most shops in Oman are open from Saturday to Thursday between 9:00 am and 10:00 pm, with some staying open until midnight. On Fridays, shops usually open in the afternoon after Friday prayers, and stay open until late at night.
As for forms of payment, most shops in Oman accept both cash and credit card payments. However, it is important to note that some smaller shops and markets may only accept cash.
Major Supermarkets in Oman and differences between them
There are several major supermarket chains in Oman, with the two biggest ones being Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket.
Carrefour is a French-based supermarket chain with several stores in Oman. It is known for its wide range of products, including electronics, household items, and clothing. The prices at Carrefour are generally higher than at other supermarkets, but the quality of the products is also higher.
Lulu Hypermarket is a UAE-based supermarket chain with several stores in Oman. It is known for its low prices and good quality products, including fresh produce and meat. Lulu Hypermarket also has a focus on international products, including imported goods from around the world.
Online shopping popularity and main websites
Online shopping is becoming increasingly popular in Oman, with more and more people opting to shop online instead of in physical stores. Some of the most popular online shopping websites in Oman include:
Carrefour Oman: This website allows users to shop online and have their products delivered to their doorstep. It offers a wide range of products, including electronics, household items, and clothing.
Lulu Hypermarket: This website also allows users to shop online and have their products delivered to their doorstep. It offers a range of products from electronics to household items.
Oman Avenues Mall: This website is an online shopping platform that allows users to browse and purchase products from a range of different stores.
Shops in Oman specifically for expats and finding international products
There are several shops in Oman specifically for expats, catering to their specific needs and tastes. Some of these shops include:
The Sultan Center: This shop is located in Muscat and specializes in international products, including food, drinks, and household items.
Al Fair: This shop has several locations throughout Oman and specializes in international products, including food, drinks, and household items.
Spinneys: This shop is located in Muscat and specializes in international products, including food, drinks, and household items.
For finding specific international products, expats can also try visiting ethnic food stores or online retailers, such as Global Foods or World Market, which offer a range of products from different countries.
Consumer rights and contact details of main consumer organizations in Oman
Consumers in Oman have several rights that are protected by law. These include the right to a refund, the right to a replacement product or service, and the right to cancel a contract within a certain time period.
If consumers have a complaint or dispute with a business, they can contact the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws and can impose fines or penalties on businesses that violate these laws. Consumers can file a complaint with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry online or by mail.
In addition to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, there are several consumer organizations in Oman that can provide information and assistance to consumers. Some of the main organizations include:
- Oman Consumer Protection Association: This is a non-governmental organization that aims to promote and protect consumer rights in Oman. It provides information and advice to consumers on a range of issues, including consumer protection laws, product safety, and fair trading practices.
- Public Authority for Consumer Protection: This organization is responsible for regulating and monitoring consumer protection laws in Oman. It can provide information and assistance to consumers who have a complaint or dispute with a business.
Consumers can contact these organizations by phone, email, or through their websites for assistance with consumer-related issues.
In conclusion, the retail industry in Oman offers a range of shopping experiences and products for consumers. Most shops are open from Saturday to Thursday between 9:00 am and 10:00 pm, with some staying open until midnight. The major supermarket chains in Oman are Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket, each with their own unique selling points. Online shopping is becoming increasingly popular, with websites like Carrefour Oman, Lulu Hypermarket, and Oman Avenues Mall offering a wide range of products. For expats, there are shops specifically catering to their needs, as well as ethnic food stores and online retailers. Consumers in Oman have several rights that are protected by law and can seek assistance and information from organizations such as the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Oman Consumer Protection Association, and Public Authority for Consumer Protection.