Oman National Day Boosts Weekend Travel as Muscat International Airport Welcomes Maximum Passengers – Travel And Tour World

The Sultanate of Oman came alive over the extended four-day weekend as citizens and expatriates celebrated the 54th National Day with festive events and outdoor adventures. The holidays, observed on November 20-21 (Wednesday and Thursday), were declared by Royal orders of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, providing a much-anticipated break for public and private sector employees.

From the sun-kissed beaches of Muscat to the dramatic heights of Jabal Akhdar and the serene sands of the Sharqiyah Desert, Oman’s diverse landscapes turned into buzzing hubs of activity, drawing families, adventure seekers, and tourists alike.

Beaches in Muscat: Family Fun and Relaxation

Muscat’s stunning coastline was a top choice for families looking to relax and enjoy the pleasant November weather. Families flocked to the beaches for sun-soaked fun, picnics, and breathtaking sunsets.

“We’re lucky to live in a place with such stunning coastlines,” shared Abdullah al Harthi, a resident of Qurum. “The kids love building sandcastles, and we enjoy the sunsets.”

The blend of white sands and turquoise waters offered the perfect setting for Omani families and expatriates to unwind while creating cherished memories.

Sharqiyah Sands: A Desert Adventure

The Sharqiyah Sands, renowned for its sprawling dunes and serene landscapes, became a hotspot for desert enthusiasts. Groups of travelers packed camping gear and set off for an unforgettable experience under the stars.

Jabal Akhdar: Nature’s Retreat

Visitors seeking cooler climates headed to Jabal Akhdar, one of Oman’s most iconic mountainous regions. Known for its terraced greenery, fruit farms, and hiking trails, the area provided a serene escape for nature lovers.

Jabal Shams: Oman’s Highest Peak

For adventure enthusiasts, Jabal Shams, also known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia, offered a thrilling weekend experience. Trekking trails and the panoramic views from Oman’s highest peak attracted a steady stream of visitors.

Local guides and tour operators facilitated trekking and canyon exploration, ensuring visitors could safely enjoy the region’s rugged terrain and spectacular vistas.

Boost for Oman’s Hospitality Sector

The long weekend brought a significant boost to Oman’s hospitality industry, with hotels and resorts across the Sultanate reporting high occupancy rates.

Restaurants and cafés buzzed with activity as holidaymakers indulged in Omani and international cuisine. In Al Mouj, a bustling dining destination, a café owner shared, “The energy has been infectious. Our team worked extra shifts to accommodate the rush.”

Wadis: Serene Escapes

Oman’s wadis, including the picturesque Wadi Bani Khalid and Wadi Shab, offered serene escapes for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility.

Wadis are among Oman’s most cherished natural treasures, featuring freshwater pools, lush vegetation, and scenic hiking trails that attract both residents and international visitors.

Outbound Travel and Cross-Border Excursions

For some, the long weekend was an opportunity to venture beyond Oman’s borders. The UAE border experienced heavy traffic as travelers drove to neighboring Emirates, while Muscat International Airport was bustling with passengers heading to international destinations.

Regional travel during the holiday period highlighted Oman’s growing connectivity with the rest of the world, further solidifying its position as a key travel hub in the Middle East.

Oman: A Destination for All Seasons

The extended break underscored Oman’s incredible potential as a year-round tourist destination. From serene beaches and lush mountains to vast deserts and vibrant cities, the Sultanate offers something for everyone.

As the workweek begins anew, the memories of the 54th National Day celebrations linger, serving as a testament to Oman’s cultural richness and natural beauty. With its growing tourism infrastructure and world-class attractions, Oman continues to position itself as a top destination for travelers from across the globe.