The vote came in today to ban alcohol in Oman over 'land, sea and air' and to stop issuing sheesha restaurant permits by Majlis Al-Shura. But, keep in mind that Majils Al-Shura has minimal legislative powers and only makes recommendations that are then taken up by high authorities such as the Ministers Council until the final say is with the Sultan.
Some of the Majlis Al-Shura members may be considered a bit 'old-school' and well-intentioned, but many Omanis support the ban; meanwhile, I doubt it's likely (or am hoping not) a full ban on alcohol will be realized in Oman. The ramifications on business and tourism are too great to ignore. However, possibly more restrictions will be put in place as a compromise. Instead of banning, why not raise up the tax on alcohol and collect funds for the government.
Some of the Majlis Al-Shura members may be considered a bit 'old-school' and well-intentioned, but many Omanis support the ban; meanwhile, I doubt it's likely (or am hoping not) a full ban on alcohol will be realized in Oman. The ramifications on business and tourism are too great to ignore. However, possibly more restrictions will be put in place as a compromise. Instead of banning, why not raise up the tax on alcohol and collect funds for the government.
Credit: http://www.blueridgeinstitute.org/
Old moonshine operations during prohibition on alcohol in USA.
...envisioning such a whiskey still deep in the Hajar mountains...
Your post inspired me to write my own;). And to reflect on the Hajar mountains ancient heritage of wine-making;)
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