Decades of Lebanese sweet making in Oman

MUSCAT, DEC 14
When Beirut-born Muneer arrived in Oman in 1972, he had no idea that he would be introducing Lebanese sweets to the Sultanate of Oman, which was experiencing a new awakening since 1970.
Over time, he began to understand the eating habits and food preferences of the Omani people, whose sweet choices were traditionally limited to dates and similar treats.
After working in various jobs in food preparation and sales, Muneer opened the first Al Fawaris bakery in Ruwi in 1999. He started serving citizens and other Arab nationals under one roof, introducing them to the art of sweet making.
This marked the beginning of a successful business venture as Al Fawaris expanded its range of sweets, offering popular Lebanese treats like Baklava, Kanafeh, Maamoul, Znoud el Sit, Halawet el Jibn and Layali Lubnan.
Fuad, Muneer's son who now runs the business, mentions that other favourites include Mafroukeh, Nammoura, Sfouf, Ashta, Awamat, cookies, Qatayef, Lebanese doughnuts, Basma, Halva, Jazarieh, Mahalabiyeh and Meghli.
Al Fawaris has successfully introduced Omani and other Arab nationals in Oman to Lebanese delicacies.
According to Fuad, Lebanese sweets are considered oriental treats, featuring a rich variety of desserts and pastries made with ingredients like phyllo dough, semolina, nuts such as pistachios, walnuts, and cashews, cheese, and a sweet syrup flavoured with rose or orange blossom water.
'We are proud to have brought Lebanese flavours to Oman, and our journey continues despite competition in the market,' Fuad added.