Praktisch · Kapitel 10
Holidays & Events
National holidays, Islamic festivals, and cultural events in Oman — when a visit is particularly worthwhile and what you need to consider during Ramadan.
Holidays & Festivals
Public Holidays
| Date | Holiday | Significance for Tourists |
|---|---|---|
| November 18 | National Day (Birthday of Sultan Qaboos) | Major holiday! Parades, illuminated buildings, fireworks. Hotels are more expensive, festive atmosphere |
| July 23 | Renaissance Day (Day of the 1970 Coup) | Commemoration day, some shops closed |
| January 1 | New Year | Only partially observed, not a major event |
Islamic Holidays (Date varies annually)
| Festival | Duration | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Ramadan | 30 Days | Month of fasting. No public dining during the day, shorter opening hours. Evenings: Iftar feasts. Hotels serve as usual |
| Eid al-Fitr | 3–4 Days | End of fasting after Ramadan. Major family celebration. Shuwa is prepared! Shops closed for 1–2 days |
| Eid al-Adha | 4–5 Days | Festival of Sacrifice. Largest Islamic holiday. Family gatherings, Shuwa, generosity. Many shops closed |
| Maulid an-Nabi | 1 Day | Birthday of the Prophet Mohammed. Quiet holiday |
Cultural Events
- Muscat Festival (Jan–Feb): Multi-week cultural festival with music, theater, crafts, and fireworks. In Qurum Park and Amerat Park. Free to low-cost entry
- Salalah Khareef Festival (Jul–Sep): During the monsoon season: music, dance, camel races, and culinary events. Tourists from the Gulf states flock to Salalah
- Royal Opera House Season (Oct–May): International artists, Arabic concerts, classical music. Program available at rohmuscat.org.om
- Camel Races: In winter (Nov–Mar), camel races take place in various regions — an ancient sport where camels are now ridden by small robot jockeys (real child jockeys have been banned since 2002). Authentic and entertaining
Tipp
The National Day on November 18th is a great date for a visit to Oman: The atmosphere is festive, the Omanis are in a celebratory mood, and the cities are decorated and illuminated. However, hotels are more expensive — book at least 2 weeks in advance.
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