Latest update:19 December 2025 at 11:37 PM IST

However, a closer look showed that this item was not an earring but a real-time translation device.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Oman on Wednesday for a two-day visit. (X)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Oman earlier this week on a two-day visit. He was received by the Omani Deputy Prime Minister for Defense Affairs, where he received a grand reception that included a traditional dance and a guard of honour. However, what stole the show on social media was a small jewel-like accessory on his ear.

The item quickly became a topic of speculation on social media, with users wondering whether Prime Minister Modi had debuted a new fashion accessory or fashion choice. Several posts referred to it as a “shiny earring,” sparking curiosity and discussion across platforms.

However, a closer look showed that this item was not an earring but a real-time translation device. These devices are commonly used during international diplomatic encounters to facilitate smooth communication between leaders and officials who speak different languages.

Arabic is the official language of Oman, and translation equipment helps visiting dignitaries accurately follow conversations during official interactions. Prime Minister Modi was wearing the device during his meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister of Oman at the airport.

During his two-day visit, the Prime Minister held a series of talks aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between India and the Sultanate of Oman with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq at Al Baraka Palace in Muscat.

The visit marked a major diplomatic achievement, as Prime Minister Modi was awarded the ‘Order of Oman, First Class’, the Sultanate’s highest civilian honour. This is the twenty-ninth international civilian award received by the Prime Minister.

A free trade agreement was also signed with Oman, which will provide duty-free access to about 98% of India’s exports. On the other hand, India will reduce customs duties on Omani products such as dates and marble.

Apart from eliminating tariffs on merchandise exports, the deal also included several concessions that are expected to benefit India’s services sector, including with regard to worker mobility.

The agreement was signed in Muscat by Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and Omani Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion Qais bin Mohammed Al-Yousef.

India exported goods worth $4.06 billion to Oman in 2024-25, which constituted 0.93% of India’s total exports that year. It imported goods worth $6.5 billion from Oman, representing 0.91% of India’s total imports in the period 2024-2025.

(With inputs from agencies)