Muscat's coffee shops have quietly evolved – from a social gathering place to a hybrid workplace for a new generation of Omish youth who are redefining how and where they work or study.
What started as an everyday habit has developed into a lifestyle trend. Across the city, students, freelancers and young professionals are grabbing their favorite cafe tables, sipping iced lattes while writing reports, designing projects or participating in virtual meetings.
The line between “coffee time” and “work time” is fluid – and many say they prefer it that way.
For Sara Mohammed, a design student, a café isn't just a place to relax – it's her creative studio.
“I can’t concentrate at home or in the university library,” she says with a smile. “The energy of the café motivates me. I love the background noise – it keeps me awake.”
This “background noise,” or what psychologists call white noise, makes cafes perfect for concentration, explains Dr. Amal al Maqbali, a behavior specialist.
“Light ambient noise helps the brain maintain concentration,” she says. “This is why some people are more productive in a café than in complete silence.”
It's psychological comfort, enveloped in the scent of freshly ground coffee.
From Mint & Coco in Al Qurum to Shagar Café in Al Seeb, many local establishments now proudly display “Laptop Friendly” signs. With fast Wi-Fi, charging stations under every seat, and focused playlists, these cafes have become the city's unofficial co-working spaces.
“We have 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 omish freelancers and remote workers has led to the emergence of 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 refer to cafes as my second office,” she says. “I answer emails, work on client designs, and take short breaks to talk to other creatives. It's motivating—and it feels less lonely.”
Recent surveys show that Omani youth are increasingly attracted to flexible work environments. The country's digital transformation combined with its young workforce has made such spaces more relevant than ever.
But the trend doesn't just affect work. Many young people view cafés as micro-communities – social spaces where friendships, collaborations and even business ideas emerge.
Universities are also on the rise. Some campuses have opened student cafes, intended not only for refreshment but also to promote informal learning and open discussion.
The cafe industry in Oman is thriving. According to cafe owners, around 30 percent of regular customers are now students or remote workers. To meet this demand, many stores are evolving – adding soundproof booths, ergonomic furniture and curated menus for long study periods.
“Competition is no longer just about who serves the best espresso,” says Al Rawahi. “It’s about who provides the best atmosphere for creating, reflecting and connecting.”
Nevertheless, experts advise moderation. Spending too much time in coffee shops can blur personal boundaries and increase screen fatigue.