BALANCING PRIDE AND PRIVACYnOmani women step forward in sports

Across Omani universities, female athletes are sprinting towards new opportunities - and into the centre of a national conversation.
As more young women join sports clubs, compete in inter-university championships and even represent Oman abroad, the rise of women’s sports has become both a celebration of empowerment and a careful act of cultural harmony.
In recent years, several government and private universities have seen a notable increase in women’s teams - from volleyball and athletics to martial arts and football.
“Sports give us confidence, teamwork and leadership,” said Aida al Hashami, a university volleyball player. “We’re not just playing games; we’re breaking stereotypes.”
While this progress has inspired pride, it has also sparked a debate over privacy and modesty - especially concerning photography and online exposure. For some families, the idea of their daughters appearing in sports photos or social media posts feels uncomfortable.
“I have no problem with my daughter playing sports at the university,” said Salim al Saadi, father of a student athlete. “But I don’t want her pictures shared publicly. Privacy and modesty are part of who we are.”
That sentiment is echoed by Lamia Tariq, another parent. “We’re proud of their achievements,” she said, “but social media exposure worries us. I prefer that their activities stay within the campus.”
University sports coordinators acknowledge these sensitivities and are taking steps to maintain a balance. “We organise female-only competitions and monitor photography closely,” explained Samia Ali, a sports coordinator at a private college. “Our aim is to empower students while respecting family and cultural values.”
Yet, some athletes believe the time has come for a more open approach. “If we keep hiding female athletes, how will the world know about our success?” asked Ausha, a coach who recently represented Oman internationally. “We can honour our culture and still be visible, strong and proud.”
Public opinion remains divided, but many view these discussions as a positive sign of social maturity. As Oman advances towards Vision 2040, women’s sports have come to represent more than physical fitness - they embody identity, confidence and the nation’s ability to blend progress with tradition.
And as Omani women step onto the field - covered, confident and determined - they prove that strength and grace can coexist beautifully, even under the watchful eye of culture.