Tuesday 30 / April / 2024
MUSCAT: Following the announcement of Eid Al Fitr holidays (April 9-13) in Oman, anticipation filled the air.
Families have eagerly begun preparations for the upcoming five-day break, with plans ranging from beach escapes to mountain retreats and overseas travels.
Besides the diverse travel options and the excitement of celebrating Eid Al Fitr to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the markets are getting ready to engage customers for Eid shopping across the Sultanate of Oman.
In bustling cities like Muscat, Sohar, Sur and Salalah, travel agencies buzzed with activity as residents sought the perfect getaway. Some opted for beach escapes, drawn to the pristine shores of Salalah in the south or the tranquil beaches of Musandam in the north.
"We love spending Eid at our family beach house in Salalah," said Fatima, a resident of Dhahreez in Salalah.
"The sound of the waves and the salty breeze make it the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with loved ones."
For others, the call of the desert is an inviting and exciting option, venturing into the vast landscapes of Rimal Al Sharqiyah (Wahiba) Sands for thrilling dune bashing and starlit camping experiences.
"Every Eid, my friends and I head to the Wahiba Sands for an unforgettable desert adventure," said T Rajesh, a resident of Ruwi in Muscat. "There's nothing quite like watching the sunset over the dunes and sleeping under the starry desert sky."
For those seeking respite from the summer heat, the majestic mountains beckoned with promises of cool temperatures and breathtaking vistas.
The allure of exploring Oman's diverse landscapes beckons, promising unforgettable experiences beneath the azure skies.
Al Jabal Al Akhdar and Jabel Shams are popular havens for hiking, camping, and exploring traditional mountain villages.
"Eid is the perfect time to escape to the mountains," remarked Monika, a home-maker in Muscat.
"We love staying in dusitD2 Naseem Resort Jabal Akhdar, which is a family hotel with a lot of options for kids as they have the Adventure Park. The view of terraced gardens and stunning views of the Al Hajar Mountains in Jabal Akhdar are always a pleasing experience."
Meanwhile, neighbouring destinations offered a wealth of travel options. Dubai, with its vibrant city life and world-class attractions, is among the favourites for Omanis and expatriates who love to go shopping and entertainment.
"We always spend Eid in Dubai with our extended family," said Khalid Al Maamari, a resident of Sohar.
"It's become a tradition for us to visit the theme parks, indulge in shopping sprees, and enjoy delicious meals together."
Among other destinations that are popular during the Eid break according to travel and tour operators are Istanbul, Georgia, Thailand and Malaysia while a lot of residents travel to the Indian subcontinent to be with their loved ones back home.
Amidst the anticipation of adventures near and far, the essence of Eid Al Fitr remains ever-present.
Families embrace the spirit of togetherness and gratitude, cherishing the opportunity to bond and celebrate amidst the backdrop of newfound experiences and cherished traditions.
Meanwhile, roads in Muscat recorded traffic delays on the weekend as people came out in hordes to do Eid shopping. Markets and Malls are adorned with twinkling lights coupled with festive discounts and special offers.
The souks in Muttrah and Nizwa were alive with the vibrant chatter of shoppers, each one eager to find the perfect gifts for their loved ones.
In the neighbourhoods, the scent of freshly baked Omani sweets wafted from kitchens, where families gathered to prepare for the upcoming celebrations.
Following the announcement of holidays, there has been a flurry of activities in every corner of Oman, from the bustling cities to the tranquil villages nestled among the mountains.
As Eid Al Fitr approaches, Omanis eagerly anticipate the opportunity to embark on journeys of discovery and relaxation, creating cherished memories with family and friends amidst the beauty of their homeland and beyond.
