What are the Public Holidays in Oman (2024)?Â
Oman, a land of rich cultural heritage and landscapes, celebrates a number of public holidays that reflect the country’s traditions and historical significance. These special occasions provide a glimpse into the life of Omani people.Â
Starting from Accession Day to marking religious milestones such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, Oman’s public holidays serve as a time for reflection, unity, and joy. In this blog, we will delve into the vibrant tapestry of Oman’s public holidays, exploring the unique traditions, cultural nuances, and the spirit of celebration that define each occasion.
Here is the list of public holidays in Oman in 2024:
| Date | Weekday | Holiday |
| 11 January, 24′Â | Thursday | Accession Day |
| 8 February, 24′ | Thursday | Al Israa Wal Miraj |
| 8 – 12 April, 24′ | Monday – Friday | Eid Al Fitr |
| 15 – 18 June, 24′Â | Saturday -Tuesday | Eid Al Adha |
| 7 July, 24′Â | Sunday | Islamic New Year |
| 15 September, 24′Â | Sunday | Milad Al Nabi (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) |
| 18 November, 24′Â | Monday | Oman National Day |
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Here are the details of Oman Public Holiday 2024:Â
Accession Day (January 11, 2024)
Accession Day is celebrated in Oman on January 11 to commemorate the anniversary of His Majesty the Sultan’s succession. In December 2022, a national holiday on January 11 was officially declared in Oman through Royal Decree No. 88/2022. His Majesty ascended to the throne on January 11, 2020, succeeding Sultan Qaboos bin Said. Prior to assuming the role of ruler, His Majesty had a distinguished career as a cabinet member, serving as the Minister of Heritage and Culture from 2002 to 2020.
Al Israa Wal Miraj (February 8, 2024)
Al Israa Wal Miraj, also known as Israa and Miraj, is celebrated on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. This significant event in the Islamic calendar commemorates the night when Allah (God) took Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem and then ascended him to the heavens. The details of this miraculous journey are derived from the Quran and other teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
On this day, many businesses and corporations observe a day off in recognition of the religious significance of Al Israa Wal Miraj. The festival is often marked by illuminating homes with colorful and bright lights that are kept on throughout the night, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Eid Al Fitr (April 8-12, 2024)Â
Eid Al Fitr is a significant festival that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of prayers and fasting. It holds immense importance in the Islamic calendar in Oman and other countries. During this festival, which is one of the most crucial celebrations in Islam, businesses and corporate offices often remain closed. The exact date of Eid Al Fitr varies from year to year and country to country, depending on the sighting of the moon.
Muslims believe that it was during the month of Ramadan when the teachings of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad. As a gesture of goodwill and blessings, people often greet each other with the phrase “Eid Mubarak” to wish happiness and prosperity during this festive occasion.
Eid Al Adha (June 15- 18, 2024)
This festival, known as Eid Al-Adha or the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is celebrated by Muslims as a demonstration of their obedience to Allah, often involving the sacrifice of an animal. In Oman, this festival spans four days and is observed on the 10th day of Dhu-al-Hijjah. The specific date of Eid Al-Adha may vary in different countries depending on the sighting of the moon.
On the day of Eid Al-Adha, households typically divide the festive meal into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and relatives, and the remaining third for the needy. Many businesses and corporations are closed during these days to allow individuals to observe and partake in the celebrations associated with this important religious festival.
Islamic New Year (July 7, 2024)
Islamic New Year also known as Hirji New Year is celebrated on July 7. This festival marks the Holy Prophet’s Hijra Anniversary. This day marks the holiday for government officials, cabinets and other authorities. People also believe that the Islamic New Year represents the end of suffering and marks the beginning of happiness. This official holiday is marked as a holiday in both the public as well as private sectors.Â
Milad al Nabi (September 15, 2024)
Milad al-Nabi also known as “Prophet Muhamad’s Birthday is celebrated by Muslims during the month of Rabiulawal. This festival is observed as a public holiday in most of the countries as it marks the birthday of the founder of Islam. The date may vary in different countries as the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycles. This festival is celebrated with religious lectures which include the teaching of holy Quaran. Moreover, various rituals are performed and prayers are offered to the Prophet for their well-being and happiness.Â
Oman National Day (November 18, 2024)
November 18 is observed as Oman National Day. This festival marks the independence from Portuguese control in 1650. A two-day break is provided during this festival as November 19 is also observed as a public holiday to mark the birth anniversary of Oman’s Sultan- Qaboos Bin Said. As per the Royal Decree 27/2006 actual holiday dates may vary as per the public interest. In schools, students sing the national anthem of Oman to mark this day. Parades, fireworks and roadshows are also observed during this festival to mark the independence.
Summing Up
So these are all the public holidays celebrated in Oman. Most of the businesses and corporations are closed on these days to celebrate and mark their importance.
All the above-mentioned public holidays are applicable in Oman. So if you are looking to plan your holidays and vacations with your near and dear ones you can use this calendar as a reference. Moreover, organizations and HR professionals can use the calendar to plan the holidays for their employees accordingly.Â
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* The above mentioned dates are preliminary and subject to change. We will modify them upon receiving updates.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The public holidays of Oman include Accession Day, Al Israa Wal Miraj, Eid al Fitr, Islamic New Year, Milad al-Nabi and National Oman Day.
In Oman, Eid Al Adha is observed from June 15 to June 18, 2024, by the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs.
Yes, Prophet Muhamad’s birthday falls on September 15, 2024, also known as Mial al Nabi.
Public holidays in Oman are celebrated with parades, road shows, rituals and prayers offered to the Almighty.