Winter—now—is mild and beautiful, but all too brief. For nearly half the year, Oman endures temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius. The rugged mountains, some reaching 3,000 meters, offer a welcome escape from the summer heat and even receive a dusting of snow during the coldest months. With no permanent running rivers, the country relies heavily on desalinated seawater to meet its needs. In this environment, the sun is a formidable adversary. Shade — whether from a building, a rock outcrop, or even a solitary tree — becomes a precious ally.
They adapt by reorienting their daily rhythms to avoid the harshest hours of the sun. For generations, Bedouin communities have been most active after sunset and before dawn, beginning their work in the cool early light and resting when the sun grows intense. Every patch of shade, especially the shelter offered by a lone tree, becomes a valuable refuge for both people and animals.
Clothing is deliberately long and loose, with sleeves and layers designed to protect against sunburn rather than encourage heat. And, sensibly, the hottest hours of the afternoon are reserved for rest. A midday snooze is not merely a tradition; it is an essential strategy for conserving energy and allowing the body to recover before evening activities begin.
