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Times of Oman
10-06-2025
- Times of Oman
Eid Al Adha celebrations wrap up as Oman gets back to business
Muscat: Eid Al Adha festivities came to an end on Tuesday as Oman resumed its regular workweek, with businesses reopening and daily routines returning to normal after days of celebration and holiday spirit. The festive five-day Eid Al Adha holiday was filled with joy, family gatherings, and travel as thousands returned from mountain retreats, beach outings, and overseas trips. The extended break saw a remarkable surge in domestic tourism, with resorts, historical sites, and family farms bustling with activity and laughter. The green terraces of Jabal Akhdar (Green Mountains) welcomed numerous families and tourists eager to escape the coastal heat and enjoy cooler climates. 'The views were stunning, and the weather up there was refreshing. It felt like a completely different world,' shared K Abhishek, an Indian expatriate who stayed with his family at dusitD2 Naseem Resort. Jabal Shams, Oman's highest peak, was equally popular. 'The temperatures here were around the low 30s during the day,' said Sharmila, another expatriate who enjoyed hiking in the mountain's pleasant climate. The freshwater wadis — Wadi Shab, Wadi Bani Khalid, and others — also attracted visitors seeking respite from the summer heat. Picnic and beach spots, including Qurum, Azaiba, and Shatti, came alive in the evenings with families enjoying barbecues, games, and strolls by the sea. 'We spent our evenings on the beach and dined out most nights,' said D Manoj, a longtime Ruwi resident. 'The restaurants were buzzing, and there was a real festive atmosphere. It was great to see people enjoying themselves.' Eid Al Adha traditions unite families At the heart of Eid celebrations across Oman was the beloved tradition of preparing shuwa, a marinated meat dish slow-cooked underground in earthen ovens. 'Preparing shuwa with my family is something I look forward to every Eid,' said Badr Al Wahaibi from Quriyyat. 'We gathered at my grandfather's farm to prepare Shuwa. The smell and taste brings everyone together — it's more than food, it's our heritage.' The holidays were also a time for extended family visits, exchanging greetings, and sharing festive meals. 'Eid is a time when the entire family — sometimes four generations — comes together under one roof,' said Saada Al Rawahi, a schoolteacher from Nizwa. 'We wear our finest traditional clothes, share sweets, and spend the evenings with family and relatives. Despite the heat, the spirit of togetherness shines.' Visitors like MaryAnn Davis, vacationing from Dubai, summed up the experience. 'We wanted something peaceful this Eid. Oman offered that — great hospitality, breathtaking scenery, and a lot of warmth. It was magical.' 'Al Amerat Events' to continue till 14 June Meanwhile, the ongoing 'Al Amerat Events' at Al Amerat Park continues to draw crowds. Launched on 25 May and running until 14 June, this vibrant community festival, supervised by the Wali of Al Amerat's office, attracts families and visitors of all ages from the region. The event features a diverse range of programmes, including displays of products from productive households, folk arts performances, children's games, and authentic Omani cuisine. Visitors also enjoy educational and recreational activities such as 'Reptiles World,' equestrian and camel shows, classic car displays, and daily competitions with motivational awards. 'This event supports cultural and social engagement, inspires local entrepreneurs, and promotes local tourism during the summer holidays,' said a spokesperson from the organisers. 'It reflects the diversity and cultural spirit of Al Amerat while enhancing community participation.'
Times of Oman
02-06-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Eid staycation deals: Up to 50% off at top resorts across Oman
MUSCAT: Haven't made plans for Eid Al Adha yet? Don't worry — a range of last-minute staycation deals are still up for grabs across Oman, with discounts of up to 50 per cent at some of the country's top hotels and resorts. Whether you're craving a luxury retreat or a mountain escape in the cooler climes of Jabal Shams or Jabal Akhdar, there's something to suit every preference this holiday. On the occasion of Eid Al Adha 1446 AH, and following the Royal directives of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, holidays for employees in the State's Administrative Apparatus, other legal entities, and private sector establishments in Oman have been officially announced. The holiday will run from Thursday, June 5, 2025, to Monday, June 9, 2025, with work resuming on Tuesday, June 10. With the dates confirmed, hotels and tour operators across the Sultanate are reporting a surge in bookings, particularly from residents and visitors from the UAE. 'We are geared up for the Eid holidays and we are seeing a lot of bookings from the UAE and Oman,' said Akbar Abbas, Resort Manager at The View Oman, situated at Al Hamra Among the most sought-after destinations this Eid are Jabal Akhdar and Jabal Shams, which offer a refreshing escape from the region's summer heat. These mountain getaways transform into lush oases during the warmer months, offering cultural experiences and a cooler climate rarely found elsewhere in the GCC. The View Oman –A highland haven As temperatures climb across the region, The View Oman, a luxury eco-resort near the historic village of Al Hamra, offers a tranquil mountain retreat. Nestled in a scenic valley and accessible via a 7.5 km stretch of winding mountain road (four-wheel drive required), the resort promises breathtaking views and unmatched hospitality. 'And on reaching there you are greeted with stunning panoramas of the surrounding valley, which is sure to take your breath away. The View combines spectacular views of nature and excellent amenities with unparalleled hospitality making it one of the best luxury resorts in Oman,' said Abbas. Guests can relax in comfortable sit-out areas, and dine outdoors under the stars. The location is perfect for exploring nearby attractions such as Jabal Shams, Al Hoota Caves, Nizwa Fort, Misfat Al Abriyyin, and the ancient town of Al Hamra. The resort also caters to adventure seekers with options for trekking, biking, and hiking. For those seeking relaxation, spa therapies and a swim in the mountaintop infinity pool offer a serene experience with panoramic valley views. At 1,400 metres above sea level, The View Oman provides stunning sunsets and a cool climate — ideal for dining at the terrace of the in-house restaurant. The hotel is giving a special Eid offer with up to 50% off on all website bookings. DusitD2 Naseem Resort– A family favourite Another star attraction is dusitD2 Naseem Resort Jabal Akhdar, a favourite among families, especially those travelling with children. Jagdeip Thakral, General Manager of DusitD2 Naseem Resort Jabal Akhdar, noted a sharp increase in bookings by local residents. He said: 'Staycations are now a norm in the country during Eid breaks, and we already have a lot of local residents booking their stay during the upcoming Eid break. 'We are all geared up to welcome them and have curated various offers and experiences to ensure they have the best stay at our property, which is popular with families.' The resort is well known for its Adventure Park, the only one in the area, which continues to be a major draw for younger guests. The hotel also has Kids Club that features mini cinema sessions. 'The only Adventure Park in the area is a big hit among youngsters and is a major draw along with our other facilities at the property,' Thakral added. He also highlighted that the property is currently enjoying a blooming season with flowers in full display, and confirmed high occupancy for the upcoming Eid holidays. Guests can book their Eid stay from OMR85++ per night that includes buffet breakfast and unlimited Adventure Park access. Arabian Nights Resort & Spa – A desert escape Located in the heart of the Sharqiyah Sands, Arabian Nights Resort & Spa offers a luxury eco-experience amid the vast, rolling dunes. Accessible only by 4WD vehicles through a 27 km stretch of desert from Bidiyah, the resort is a sanctuary of seclusion and style. Arabian Nights Resort and Spa offers a spectacular dune view of nature and excellent amenities with unparalleled hospitality, making it one of the best luxury desert resorts in Oman. Guests can enjoy sit-out areas, and open-air dining, or explore nearby attractions like Wadi Bani Khalid and Wadi Tiwi. For those looking to get active, the resort offers desert trekking, fat bike riding, sandboarding, dune bashing, and visits to Bedouin homes. The resort also features an inviting swimming pool with a poolside bar, offering a leisurely day of comfort amid the dunes. 'Special Eid offer includes upto 30% off on all bookings,' said Ganga Bahadur, Resort Manager, Arabian Nights Resort & Spa. Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar– A cool mountain retreat Set at a lofty 2,000 metres above sea level, Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa provides a naturally air-conditioned escape from the summer heat, with temperatures around 15 degrees cooler than in coastal regions. The resort invites guests to experience Oman's 'Green Mountain' through its exclusive summer package, starting from just OMR 85++ per night including breakfast. In addition to breathtaking views, guests receive up to OMR 20 in credit for dining and wellness experiences, making it an ideal getaway for rejuvenation and adventure alike. This Eid Al Adha, whether you're heading to the mountains or the desert, Oman's resorts have something exceptional to offer — and with special discounts in place, now is the perfect time to book your dream staycation.
