Beyond the Smile: Investigating Female Labor Dynamics in the Hotel Industry in Oman

This study examined the social context and psychological dimensions of 21 female Omani employees working in 4- and 5-star hotels who participated in the study. A qualitative approach was used to gain deeper insights into their experiences through in-depth interviews. The study identified six themes: cultural and religious influences, gender discrimination, government initiatives, workplace harassment, work policies, and challenges in work-life balance. Among all themes, work-life balance was crucial, acting as a connecting thread to the other challenges. Cultural and religious influences, particularly norms around family honor and societal expectations, have emerged as central factors shaping women’s professional experiences.