Oman Public Holidays
Oman Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Oman? All public holidays in Oman are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Oman employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Oman and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
Oman, a country located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, has a rich cultural and religious heritage that is reflected in its public holidays. Oman observes a range of national holidays, Islamic religious holidays, and commemorative days, each of which holds special significance for the people of the Sultanate. These holidays are celebrated with great enthusiasm, and they offer an opportunity for Omanis to come together to reflect on their country’s history, culture, and religious traditions.
National Public Holidays
National public holidays in Oman celebrate key moments in the country’s history, particularly its independence, political milestones, and achievements under the leadership of the Sultan. These holidays are important expressions of national pride and unity, with citizens celebrating the Sultanate’s progress and future aspirations.
National Day (18th November)
According to nexticle.net, National Day is the most important public holiday in Oman, celebrated on the 18th of November every year. It marks the birth of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the country’s former ruler, who is credited with transforming Oman into a modern state. National Day is also a celebration of Oman’s independence and sovereignty.
Celebrations:
- Parades and Festivities: National Day is marked by large parades in the capital city, Muscat, and other regions. The military parades include displays of the Royal Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police, showcasing Oman’s strength and unity.
- Cultural Performances: Omanis celebrate National Day with traditional music, dance performances, and poetry recitations. These cultural events often feature Al-Bar’ah and Al-Azi, traditional Omani dances that symbolize pride and heroism.
- Decorations: Buildings, homes, and public spaces are adorned with the national colors—red, white, and green. The streets are illuminated with festive lights, and large portraits of the Sultan are displayed to honor his leadership.
- Fireworks: In the evening, fireworks light up the skies over major cities, with families gathering to watch the dazzling displays. These fireworks symbolize the celebration of Oman’s progress and the unity of its people.
Renaissance Day (23rd July)
Renaissance Day, celebrated on the 23rd of July, commemorates the day in 1970 when Sultan Qaboos ascended to the throne and initiated a series of reforms that modernized Oman. This day is significant for Omanis as it marks the beginning of the country’s development into a prosperous and stable nation.
Key Events:
- Reflection on National Achievements: Renaissance Day is a time for Omanis to reflect on the progress made under Sultan Qaboos’s rule, including advancements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and the economy. Government leaders often give speeches to highlight these achievements.
- Public Celebrations: Cultural events, parades, and festivals are held across the country to celebrate Oman’s development. These events often include traditional Omani music, dances, and food, bringing communities together in celebration.
Accession Day (11th January)
Accession Day marks the anniversary of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq’s ascension to the throne in 2020. While this holiday is relatively new, it holds significance as it represents continuity in Oman’s leadership and the ongoing commitment to development and prosperity.
Observances:
- Government Ceremonies: Accession Day is marked by official ceremonies in Muscat, where government officials and dignitaries gather to honor Sultan Haitham and reflect on his leadership since taking office.
- Public Celebrations: Although more low-key than National Day, Accession Day is observed with public events that celebrate Oman’s achievements under the new Sultan. Some regions organize cultural performances and social gatherings to mark the occasion.
Religious Public Holidays
Islam plays a central role in the lives of Omanis, and Islamic holidays are deeply respected and widely celebrated. Most of Oman’s religious holidays are based on the Islamic lunar calendar, which means their dates vary each year. The key religious holidays in Oman include Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and other significant Islamic observances.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr, known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is one of the most significant Islamic holidays in Oman and is celebrated with joy, prayer, and acts of charity.
Traditions:
- Eid Prayers: On the morning of Eid, Muslims across Oman gather in mosques or open prayer spaces to perform Salat al-Eid, the special Eid prayer. These prayers are followed by sermons that focus on gratitude, charity, and the importance of community.
- Zakat al-Fitr (Charitable Giving): Before the Eid prayers, Muslims give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity that ensures the less fortunate can participate in the celebrations. This act of giving is an essential aspect of the holiday.
- Feasting and Family Gatherings: After a month of fasting, families come together to enjoy lavish meals. Traditional Omani dishes, such as shuwa (slow-cooked spiced lamb) and maqbous (spiced rice with meat), are commonly prepared for the holiday feast.
- Visiting Relatives and Neighbors: Eid al-Fitr is also a time for visiting family, friends, and neighbors to exchange greetings and share food. It is a festive occasion where new clothes are worn, and children often receive gifts or money.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is another major Islamic holiday in Oman. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. Eid al-Adha is celebrated roughly 70 days after Eid al-Fitr, following the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Celebrations:
- Animal Sacrifice: One of the central traditions of Eid al-Adha is the sacrifice of an animal, usually a goat, sheep, or cow. The meat is distributed among family, friends, and the poor, reflecting the spirit of charity and sharing.
- Eid Prayers and Sermons: The day begins with special prayers at mosques, followed by sermons that focus on the values of sacrifice, faith, and obedience to God. These prayers bring the community together in worship and reflection.
- Feasting and Charity: Families celebrate Eid al-Adha with festive meals, sharing the sacrificial meat with neighbors and those in need. As with Eid al-Fitr, charity plays a central role in the holiday, with many Omanis donating to charitable organizations.
Islamic New Year (1st Muharram)
The Islamic New Year, or Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the migration (Hijra) of Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. The first day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is observed as a public holiday in Oman.
Observances:
- Quiet Reflection: Unlike other Islamic holidays, the Islamic New Year is a more subdued occasion, with a focus on quiet reflection and prayer. Omanis take this time to renew their faith and set spiritual goals for the new year.
- Mosque Attendance: Some Omanis attend special prayers and religious gatherings at mosques, where sermons are delivered about the significance of the Hijra and the importance of following the Prophet’s teachings.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid al-Nabi)
Mawlid al-Nabi, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, is a significant religious holiday in Oman. It is observed with prayers, sermons, and acts of charity, as Muslims reflect on the life and teachings of the Prophet.
Key Traditions:
- Religious Gatherings: On Mawlid al-Nabi, Omanis gather in mosques for special prayers and sermons that focus on the Prophet’s example of kindness, leadership, and devotion. Religious scholars often give talks about the importance of following the Prophet’s teachings.
- Acts of Charity: As with other Islamic holidays, Omanis use Mawlid al-Nabi as an opportunity to give to those in need. Charity is an important aspect of the holiday, and many families donate food, clothing, or money to charitable organizations.
Commemorative Days
In addition to national and religious holidays, Oman observes several commemorative days that celebrate its history, contributions to global peace, and solidarity with the international community. These days provide opportunities for reflection on Oman’s role in the world and its commitment to peace and development.
New Year’s Day (1st January)
New Year’s Day, celebrated on the 1st of January, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. While it is not as widely celebrated as Islamic holidays, New Year’s Day is recognized as a public holiday in Oman, particularly in the expatriate community.
Celebrations:
- Private Gatherings: Many expatriates and some Omanis celebrate New Year’s Eve with private gatherings, parties, and family get-togethers. In some areas, fireworks displays and concerts are organized to ring in the new year.
- Quiet Reflection: For many Omanis, New Year’s Day is a time for reflection on the past year’s achievements and setting goals for the coming year.
Labour Day (1st May)
Labour Day, or International Workers’ Day, is observed on the 1st of May in Oman. It celebrates the contributions of workers to the country’s economy and emphasizes the importance of labor rights and fair working conditions.
Observances:
- Public Rallies and Speeches: Labour unions and workers’ organizations often organize rallies and events to raise awareness about workers’ rights, wages, and safety conditions. Government officials may deliver speeches highlighting the importance of labor in Oman’s development.
- Family Time: Many workers use the day off to relax with family and friends, enjoying leisure activities and outdoor gatherings.
Armed Forces Day (11th December)
Armed Forces Day is celebrated on the 11th of December in Oman to honor the contributions of the Sultan’s Armed Forces. It is a day to recognize the role of the military in maintaining national security and protecting the sovereignty of the Sultanate.
Key Events:
- Military Parades: The day is marked by military parades and ceremonies, where the Sultan’s Armed Forces showcase their strength and discipline. These parades often include displays of military equipment and the participation of soldiers from various branches of the armed forces.
- Wreath-Laying Ceremonies: Wreaths are laid at war memorials to honor the sacrifices of Omani soldiers who have defended the country throughout its history.
