COVID-19: Eco-friendly and reusable masks prove popular in Oman

Muscat: With masks continuing to be a mandatory requirement for the foreseeable future, many are opting to buy reusable ones. Besides being easy on the wallet, they are also environmentally friendly options. And if they come with beautiful design and an affordable price, the attraction to buy is even greater.

Ammujam of Rebagoman says that her masks are designed with a special cotton fabric from the UK. Ammujan is a social worker and is in charge of the World Malayali Federation in Oman and is also into soft furnishing and designing. “I had a surplus of best quality cotton cloth after my business use that I converted into reusable cotton bags. With this pandemic and the need for reusable masks, I turned towards making masks and the demand has been pretty good,” Ammujam says.

Sidab Women is another organization which is making colourful reusable masks for sale. The objective of Sidab Women project, which was formed in 2004, is to create an additional stream of income for families in the village of Sidab and nearby regions within the governorate of Muscat. The masks made by local women also come in vibrant hues and designs. Zawaina Al Habib, working with a leading bank in Oman, says that she always buys bags and keychains made of fabric made by Sidab Women. “I have also bought their reusable face masks, which I find great to use. Apart from their design that they create, which I love, I also feel part of a helping a community,” Zawaina says.

Another company which is into making reusable masks is Heritage Thread Oman. Their range of designer masks include reversible patterns, linen masks, embroidered masks and others that capture typical Omani elements such as date palm trees, khanjar, and even concepts like cancer awareness. The masks are eco-friendly and reusable.

Most of these enterprises are active on Instagram with a niche following. With the popular sentiment of supporting local businesses combined with attractive designs and a bit of networking magic from key players in the SM platform, their products are flying off the shelf.