Preparation for Eid Al Fitr begins

Muscat: The Sultanate will celebrate the Eid Al Fitr with the rest of the Muslim world in the coming days, with the joy of completing the fasting month of Ramadan, hopeful about the good deeds during Eid Al Fitr, accompanied by joyful feelings and celebrations according to Omani customs of this occasion.
Preparations for Eid Al Fitr in the Sultanate begin before the announcement of the month of Shawwal through preparing men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, and the purchase of Omani Halwa, spices, nuts and other supplies.
Some citizens purchase cattle, sheep and camels prior to Eid from local markets. Some buy them from “Habta” which are held before Eid in various wilayats of the Sultanate according to their wish, taste and affordability. They also purchase the rest of the holiday supplies from different markets in the Sultanate.
Omanis are keen to buy Omani sweets at Eid Al Fitr holiday as it is a symbol of Omani hospitality. It is customary for the Omani people on the first day of Eid Al Fitr to prepare popular dishes, such as Al Arsiya, Al Harees or Al Qaboli, and eat them in the morning before the Eid prayer. After that,they go to the local mosque or other prayer gathering location for Eid prayers. After prayer they exchange greetings and wishes. Families then visit relatives to wish them happy Eid. Children are given the Eidiyah, money given to kids on the Eid.
Omani ‘mishkak’ and ‘shuwa’ have special taste and flavour. They are very popular and favorite dishes, which all families are keen to eat during the Eid Al Fitr to enjoy their delicious taste.
One of the habits that children eagerly await on the first day of Eid Al Fitr, is ‘Al Ayoud’ where a number of citizens present a number of products, such as sweets, toys, nuts, mishkak, soft drinks and other consumer items that attract adults and children. This habit usually takes place during the morning period in or near the central market or in an open place in the wilaya.
The popular Eid Al Fitr is celebrated in various wilayats with traditional songs, specially Al Razha, accompanied by different drums and horns that add beauty to this beautiful art.