YOUTH TURN CAFES INTO CREATIVE HUBS

Muscat’s coffee shops has quietly evolved — from a social hangout into a hybrid workspace for a new generation of Omani youth redefining how and where they work or study.
What began as a casual habit has transformed into a lifestyle trend. Across the city, students, freelancers and young professionals are claiming their favourite cafe tables, sipping iced lattes as they draft reports, design projects, or attend virtual meetings.
The line between ‘coffee time’ and ‘working hours’ has blurred — and many say they prefer it that way.
For Sara Mohammed, a design student, a cafe isn’t just a place to relax — it’s her creative studio.
“I can’t focus at home or in the university library,” she says with a smile. “The cafe energy motivates me. I love the background noise — it keeps me alert.”
That “background noise', or what psychologists call white noise, is what makes cafes perfect for concentration, explains Dr Amal al Maqbali, a behavioural specialist.
“Soft ambient sounds help the brain maintain focus,” she says. “That’s why some people are more productive in a cafe than in total silence.”
It’s psychological comfort wrapped in the scent of freshly ground coffee.
From Mint & Coco in Al Qurum to Shagar Cafe in Al Seeb, many local spots now proudly display ‘Laptop Friendly’ signs. With fast Wi-Fi, charging outlets under every seat, and playlists designed for focus, these cafes have become the city’s unofficial co-working spaces.
“We’ve adapted to our customers,” says Abdullah al Rawahi, owner of a popular cafe in Al Khuwair. “Most of our guests are students or freelancers. They spend hours here — so we made sure to create a calm, creative environment.”
The growing number of Omani freelancers and remote employees has given rise to what experts call a third space — a comfortable middle ground between home and office.
For Laila Abdullah, a freelance graphic designer, this balance is crucial.
“I call cafes my second office,” she says. “I answer emails, work on client designs and take short breaks to talk with other creatives. It’s motivating — and it feels less lonely.”
Recent surveys show that Oman’s youth are increasingly drawn to flexible work environments. The country’s digital transformation, combined with its youthful workforce, has made such spaces more relevant than ever.
But the trend isn’t just about work. Many young people see cafes as micro-communities — social spaces where friendships, collaborations and even business ideas are born.
Universities are catching on too. Some campuses have opened student cafes designed not just for refreshment, but to encourage informal learning and open discussion.
The cafe industry in Oman is thriving. According to cafe owners, around 30 per cent of regular customers today are students or remote workers. To meet this demand, many shops are evolving — adding soundproof pods, ergonomic furniture and curated menus for long study hours.
“Competition isn’t just about who serves the best espresso anymore,” says Al Rawahi. “It’s about who offers the best atmosphere to create, think and connect.”
Still, experts advise moderation. Spending too much time in cafes can blur personal boundaries and increase screen fatigue.