Festive Mood: How Oman Celebrates Its National Day 2024

by Iffat Nawaz

Festive Mood: How Oman Celebrates Its National Day 2024

12 Nov 2024

Photo: Gilles Gravier

Mark your calendars! Oman's 54th National Day falls on November 18-19, 2024, honouring its historic independence from Portuguese colonisation in 1650. This momentous occasion commemorates Imam Sultan Bin Saif's victorious rebellion, solidifying Oman as the Arab world's oldest independent state. Oman’s National Day holidays for 2024 are officially set for Monday, November 18, and Tuesday, November 19.

National Day is a special time for Omanis to celebrate their rich culture, history, and the incredible achievements of their nation. Expect to see lively parades, dazzling fireworks, thrilling camel races, and impressive equestrian shows. There is even a marine festival that showcases the country’s rich maritime heritage. This day is all about reflecting on the past, appreciating the present, and looking forward to a bright future for this esteemed and ancient land. Keep reading to learn how Omanis celebrate their national day.

History: Oman's path to independence

After Vasco da Gama’s famous voyage to India, the Portuguese arrived in Oman and occupied the region starting in 1507, even fortifying Muscat to protect their trade routes. However, the Al-Ya’ribi clan, feeling exploited by the Portuguese, teamed up with the British East India Company to regain some control. This alliance weakened Portugal's grip on Oman, and on November 18, 1650, Imam Sultan Bin Saif led a successful rebellion that expelled the Portuguese from the region.

Experience Oman's joy: National Day activities

Nothing sets the mood quite like an incredible fireworks show, and Oman knows how to create a spectacle. Make your way to Muttrah Corniche or Al Amerat Park in Muscat for a breathtaking display of colours lighting up the night sky. It is not just about the fireworks, though — these spots are also perfect for fashion enthusiasts, as both Omanis and visitors come together, proudly dressed in national colours and traditional attire. It is a vibrant scene that captures the spirit of the celebration.

To celebrate this day, students across the country proudly sing the national anthem of Oman, known as Salâm as-Solṭâni. It is a wonderful way to honour their heritage and unity.

National cuisine: Unity on the plate

With the two-day holiday, many Omanis seize the chance to return to their home villages, which means traffic can get pretty heavy on those days. It is all part of the festive spirit as everyone comes together to celebrate their beloved nation.

National Day is the perfect occasion to dive into the delightful world of Omani cuisine. Treat yourself by reserving a table at one of Muscat’s stylish eateries, such as Bait Al Luban or Bait Al Bahr, where you can enjoy a traditional feast. Picture slow-cooked shuwa, tender and perfectly spiced, paired with the creamy, rosewater-infused mahalabiya for dessert.

And let us not forget the fresh seafood served with stunning views. Dining in Oman is truly an art, and National Day gives you the perfect reason to relish every bite. For an added touch, why not coordinate your outfit to reflect the rich, earthy tones of these beloved dishes? It is all about celebrating in style.

Source: shangri-la.com

The patriotic spirit of Oman

Oman National Day, celebrated every year, is a vivacious display of patriotism as Omanis come together to honour their rich culture and heritage. The streets, buildings, shops, and even cars are beautifully decorated in the colours of the Omani flag — white, red, and green — and you will see images of the beloved Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, who played a pivotal role in transforming Oman into the progressive nation it is today.

One of the most exciting highlights of the celebration is the Glorious National Day Military Parade, showcasing various units of the Sultan of Oman’s Armed Forces. It is a spectacular event filled with musical performances and a heartfelt pledge of loyalty to the Sultan.

Every five years, there is an impressive military exhibition drill to mark this special occasion.

Record smashed: Tallest flagpole dedication for November 18

Oman is gearing up for an exciting reveal on November 18, as the country prepares to unveil its tallest flagpole in celebration of the 54th Oman National Day. This impressive structure is being constructed near the Ministries District in Al Khuwair, and it has already reached a height of 50 metres, with an additional 76 metres to go.

Once completed, it will stand at a remarkable 126 metres, making it the tallest man-made structure in Oman.

The national flag itself will be quite a sight, measuring 18 metres wide and 31.5 metres long, complete with a warning light for aircraft. Surrounding the Al Khuwair Square, which spans an impressive 18,000 square metres, there will be plenty of recreational facilities to enjoy.

Expect lush green areas, palm trees, walking and cycling tracks, a skate park, and even an outdoor art exhibition zone. Plus, there will be designated sports areas, restrooms, and a parking lot that can accommodate 107 vehicles. It is shaping up to be a fantastic addition to the community, perfect for celebrating this special occasion.

Photo: CharlesFred

National Day vehicle guidelines

With the 54th National Day celebrations just around the corner, new regulations have been rolled out regarding how you decorate your vehicles. Many people love to show their national pride with stickers featuring symbols and portraits of His Majesty the Sultan, the Royal.

So, what do you need to know? First off, when applying stickers, they should be done neatly and properly. It is important to avoid using rubber bands or placing stickers on the hood of your vehicle.

Additionally, you can’t use unapproved materials or stickers that change the colour or shape of your car. To keep things safe on the roads, stickers aren’t allowed on the front and side windows or number plates. The only exception is for images or phrases that can be clearly seen from the rear window.

And let us not forget, all stickers should reflect the spirit of National Day, respectfully celebrating the occasion. There is a grace period for sticker placement running from November 6 to November 30, 2024, so you have some time to get creative.

Authorities are encouraging everyone to follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and festive atmosphere during the national celebrations. So, get ready to celebrate while keeping it safe and respectful.

Oman National Day is not just a celebration, it is a heartfelt expression of love for the country and its rich heritage.

Missing out on the coolest events in Dubai? We know where you’ll be in November: The Crowd Test Festival — the very first Art and Music Festival by The Sandy Times.

The lineup is incredible: Mainline Magic Orchestra from Spain, Eden Burns from New Zealand, and a lot of your favourite DJs like Hani J, Hassan Alwan, Bazzzuk, and more.

Mark your calendar, snag your tickets, and get ready: November 16, 2024, from 5 PM to 3 AM at Monkey Bar, Dubai.

by Iffat Nawaz