Visiting Oman in Ramadan - What to Expect?
 

It's looking like I have a business trip to Muscat around the start of Ramadan and I'd like to understand how restrictive things can be in the daytime and at night. Surviving daylight hours without a bite to eat is going to be easy enough (schedules mean I end up doing this a few times on most of my trips) but having a job that involves talking a lot (and having a voice that goes collapses pretty quickly), I'm more worried about how the locals might react to the occasional discreet sip of water.

Also, how does Ramadan affect nightlife in Muscat. On my last trip there, the beer (and stronger stuff) flowed freely into the night at my hotel. Can I expect restrictions?

you can eat freely during the day.. just don't tease anyone.

Not sure about Ramadan, but during the Eids the country goes dry. For more "on the ground" responses, try a post in http://britishexpats.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=60&

No eating or drinking in public during daylight hours. Most offices will have a room for non-Muslims to eat or drink.
Usually, all hotel and bars shut at the beginning of Ramadan. After a few days, things may ease depending on the hotel. Eg restaurant may serve wine, or a bar is opened; in both cases for residents only.

Yep. Doesn't flow as freely, depending on the hotel. Minibars can still be stocked (at least as far as I remember).

If you're interested in the culture, it's a great time of year to enjoy the Ramadan nightlife, without alcohol. Get invited to an iftar or sahoor, enjoy some of the late night people watching, etc.