National Day

National Day is the main official public holiday in the Sultanate of Oman. It is celebrated on the 18th of November every year to commemorate the country’s independence from Portuguese control in 1650. Likewise, most people in Oman see this date as the start of a two-day break since November 19 is also a public holiday in observance of Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said’s birthday.

Oman’s National Day is considered a public holiday. Government offices and schools are closed on this day and the day after because of the celebration of the Sultan’s birthday. Most businesses are usually closed on November 18 and 19.

National Day in Oman is celebrated with various activities. The highlight of National Day celebrations is the Glorious National Day Military Parade, which has been held in different cities across Oman since the 1970s. There are also camel races, horse shows, and fireworks displays to mark the event. Likewise, a military exhibition drill takes place once every five years in celebration of National Day. The streets of Oman are also decorated with the national flag and images of Sultan Qaboos bin Said. Moreover, most people in Oman take this holiday break to bond with their families and visit friends.