Set your alarm! Eid break concludes as Oman returns to work today

MUSCAT: It’s time to set that alarm clock again.

After nine days of rest, travel, and celebration, Oman’s extended Eid Al Fitr holidays drew to a close on Saturday. Offices and businesses across the country will resume work on Sunday, as thousands return from the mountains, the beaches, and overseas trips.

The long break brought a surge in domestic travel and tourism, with mountain resorts and historical sites in full swing and family farms echoing with laughter and feasting.

The green terraces of Jabal Akhdar welcomed scores of families and tourists seeking cooler climes. DusitD2 Naseem Resort was among the most popular destinations, especially for families with children, thanks to its adventure park and rose farm tours.

“The zipline and rope course at the Adventure Park were fantastic. The kids loved it,” said Vinod M, an Indian expatriate from Muscat, who spent three nights at the resort with his family.

“We also joined the guided rose farm tour – it was so refreshing to be among the blooms this time of year,” he added.

Jagdeep Thakral, General Manager of DusitD2 Naseem, said the resort recorded high occupancy throughout the break. “We were delighted to welcome a wide mix of domestic and international guests. Families were particularly drawn to the resort as we offer a wide range of facilities with our restaurants a big hit,” he said.

Nearby, Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa saw guests making their way daily to the much-sought place, The Vue, the Middle East’s highest rooftop restaurant.

“People just wanted to enjoy the sunset – the views from up there are surreal,” said Abhishek Kalla, a lawyer, who enjoyed his stay with his wife and two kids. “I’ve dined in many places, but The Vue experience was magical.”

Anoop Joseph, Director of Sales and Marketing at the resort, said, “The response this Eid has been overwhelming. Guests came looking for a mix of luxury and nature – and they left with lasting memories.”

Culture meets coffee at the foothills

At the foothills of Jabal Akhdar, families also flocked to the Arms Museum at Bayt Ar Ridaydah Castle. The centuries-old castle, which houses a fascinating collection of antique firearms, also hosted an Eid bazaar just outside the castle that drew a large number of local crowds.

“The museum itself is a hidden gem, but what surprised us was the beautiful café inside the castle premises — Kava Kava,” said S Pankaj, an Indian expatriate. 

“It was the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional brew, especially with the Aflaj stream flowing gently right through the café.”

Meanwhile, Jabal Shams, Oman’s highest peak, lived up to its name – the “Mountain of the Sun.” Adventure seekers, campers, and hikers thronged the area for its spectacular scenery and milder temperatures.

“The walk with a glorious view of the canyon was the highlight for us,” said Ahmed Raza, a first-time visitor to the mountain.

“Standing on the edge of the canyon was an once-in-a-lifetime view. We also spent a night under the stars. It was magical.”

Not everyone left Muscat. Many residents stayed back to enjoy quality time with loved ones — and some embraced tradition with open arms.

Mohammed Al Balushi, who took his family out to their farm in Barka, said, “We avoided the crowds and just spent time on the farm. The kids enjoyed themselves, and we had a sort of picnic outing. Sometimes the simple things are the best.”

Ahmed Al Farsi, a government employee, was grateful for the long break. “I finally had time to slow down and reconnect with family and friends,” he said. “We also prepared and enjoyed shuwa at the farm.”

While domestic destinations saw brisk business, many residents opted to travel abroad. Regional and international destinations such as the UAE, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Turkiye, Thailand, and parts of Europe were popular choices, especially among families making the most of the holidays.

Whether on mountain tops, beside ancient falaj canals, or in distant cities, Omanis and residents made the most of the extended break.

As the nation returns to work on Sunday, there’s a collective sense of recharge — a week of shared laughter, discovery, and tradition that will linger long after the alarm rings.