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Muscat Daily
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
Omani heritage showcased at ‘Return of the Past' in Salalah
Salalah – Dhofar Municipality has launched a cultural event called 'Return of the Past' in Al Saadah, Salalah as part of Dhofar Khareef Season 2025. Running till August 31, the event will highlight Omani heritage and aims to reinforce national identity through an immersive cultural experience. Designed to reflect the three main environments of Dhofar – urban, rural and bedouin – the event presents live simulations of traditional life. Customs, professions and crafts are demonstrated in a contemporary setting to connect different generations to the country's heritage. Visitors can explore a heritage market showcasing Omani crafts and handmade products, a section offering traditional foods, and a village theatre hosting daily performances of folk arts such as Al Bar'ah and Al Azi. Traditional games and evening gatherings form part of the interactive experiences on site. Several governorates are taking part in the event this year, including North Batinah, North Sharqiyah, South Sharqiyah and Dakhliyah. Their participation includes live shows and rural scenes representing village life and regional cultural diversity. The 'Return of the Past' site saw significant infrastructure development ahead of the season. Enhancements include an expanded main theatre, a model of Muttrah Souq with its iconic alleys, a dedicated space for bedouin traditions, and new zones for heritage sports, storytelling and traditional cooking demonstrations. A section has also been allocated for artisan families to display and sell local food and crafts, offering economic opportunities for the community. 'Return of the Past' continues to be a key cultural attraction during khareef, offering visitors insights into Oman's environment, traditions and community heritage through inclusive and interactive displays.
Muscat Daily
05-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
Eid celebrated with vibrant cultural festivities in Oman
Muscat – Oman marked the nine-day Eid al Fitr break with a diverse range of cultural and recreational events, showcasing the sultanate's rich heritage through traditional performances, equestrian displays and community celebrations across governorates. In Muscat, residents of Bausher gathered in large numbers on the first day of Eid to witness a Royal parade as His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik passed through the district en route to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque to offer the Eid prayer for the year 1446 AH. Locals welcomed His Majesty with chants of appreciation, expressing loyalty and celebrating the national renaissance under his leadership. Beaches and parks in Muscat also saw huge crowds throughout the holiday, with families and children enjoying the outdoors. In South Batinah, the municipality hosted a three-day festival titled 'Eyud al Hawqayn Ghair' (Unique Eid al Fitr) at the Al Hawqayn Waterfalls in Rustaq. The programme blended entertainment, heritage, and sports activities. The first day featured theatrical performances, interactive games, bicycle rides, and horse riding. The second day focused on family events, traditional meals, and performances of Omani folk music and dance, including Al Azi and Al Razha. Sports competitions continued throughout. The final day concluded with a heritage exhibition displaying handicrafts, traditional dishes, and workshops for children. North Batinah also celebrated with events organised by the governorate's municipality across multiple locations. In Sohar, Eid activities were held at Haibi Park, Al Waha Mall, and Sohar Downtown. These included stage shows, face painting, talent contests, horse riding, and appearances by cartoon characters. Celebrations at the Shinas Fort Theatre featured circus acts, laser shows, cultural competitions, and children's games, with gifts distributed to attendees. Liwa's public park hosted folk art performances, face painting, and competitions for children alongside cartoon-themed entertainment. On April 3, the Dakhliyah governorate held the fourth edition of the Bahla Equestrian Festival. Organised by the Office of the Governor, the festival included traditional horse shows with riders performing Ardha, a form of ceremonial horsemanship. The event also featured artistic performances and children's competitions, aimed at encouraging interest in equestrian culture among younger generations. In North Sharqiyah, the Bidiya Equestrian Club organised a two-day Eid al Fitr festival, attracting over 130 participants from across Oman. The event showcased equestrian sports and traditional Omani singing, drawing widespread community participation. According to the organisers, the festival aimed to 'celebrate Eid in a manner that reflects the deep-rooted traditions of the nation.' Across the country, the celebrations reinforced the festive spirit of Eid, while underlining Oman's efforts to preserve and promote its cultural identity through community engagement and traditional performances.
