Oman National Day: 20 Nov, 2025 - Festivities & Travel Guide!

Oman National Day is one of the popular public holidays celebrated every year on November 18th. This is marked as an independence from Portuguese control in 1650. The people celebrate the occasion with full of joy and enthusiasm, including national parades, the anthem, cultural performances, and many more. The thing that makes this event more special is the birthday celebration of  Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said.

Furthermore, you can see the beautiful decoration of the streets and buildings, proudly displaying Oman’s flag on top. There is no end to entertainment, like fireworks after dark, camel and horse races, numerous events, and so on. On the National Day of Oman, natives and Omanis showcase loyalty and gratitude toward their nation.

When is the Oman National Day?

More than just a holiday, it is an occasion of Omani culture, pride, and freedom. For many decades, the event has been happening on 18th November, which was shifted to 20th November 2025 by Sultan Haitham bin Tariq. This shift highlights the founding of the ruling Al Busaidi dynasty in 1744. Celebrated on the 20th of November, Oman National Day offers numerous entertainment and cultural events, attracting both visitors and natives. Sultan Qaboos bin Said turned Oman into a new era of progress and peace started in 1970. He transformed Oman from an isolated country into a modern and united nation.

History of the Oman National Day​

The story of liberty begins in 1650, when Omanis bravely expelled the Portuguese and ended the foreign control. This victory led the Omans towards an independent nation in the Arab world, and people still celebrate this with honor. It is a proud reminder of the country’s journey, reflecting a modern success while celebrating national identity and unity.

How the National Day of Oman is Celebrated

Oman National Day celebrations​ not only include events, but the people of Oman are very welcoming. The day is a true reflection of the nation’s rich heritage and achievements. Every street, corner, and building decoration is filled with Omani flags. As you start your exploration, you will be surprised by a stunning view where the country transforms into a sea of red, white, and green.

People decorate their homes, cars and spend quality time with family and friends. While enjoying the festive atmosphere, you can have a great taste of Omani dishes. Fireworks displays will leave you in an environment of wanting more and more. The main central event begins with military parades alongside cultural performances and so on. 

National Symbols During the Celebrations

During the celebration of Oman National Day, some powerful national symbols come to life. You can see these symbols on buildings, streets, and native homes, like:

• National Flag of Oman: The red, white, and green shades of the flag symbolize peace, bravery, and the nation’s Islamic tradition. It is almost everywhere, whether you are on any street, shop, or building. 
• National Emblem:  It is also known as Khanjar Bo Sayfain. This is a traditional Khanjar of Omanis crossed with two swords, representing the strength and honor of Oman’s culture. You can see these buildings, uniforms, and official decorations. 
• National Anthem: “as-Salâm as-Solṭâni” is considered as national anthem of Oman. Generally, it is sung by students in school and played during cultural shows, parades, and other festive celebrations. 
• Traditional Omani Dress: Most people change their dress code during the Oman National Day. where men wear dishdasha and women wear vibrant, exaggerated dress, showing cultural pride and elegance. 

Why the National Day of Oman is Special for Visitors

If you are visiting Oman for the first time during National Oman Day, it offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. Oman is expected to celebrate its 55th anniversary on 20th November 2025 with its rich heritage. Beautifully decorated cities of Oman welcome visitors to join the festivities. Along with decorations and events, you will definitely be surprised by the festive atmosphere across cities and villages. 

Wanting more? Traditional performances are at their peak with a number of entertainments, like dances, music, and cultural activities. Moreover, as you go deep into markets, you will feel amazed by handmade crafts, traditional attire, especially different Omani foods and cuisines. 

What makes the event more special is a unique cultural atmosphere with wonderful hospitality. Omani people proudly share stories of their traditions and history with guests. You can feel the spirit of National Day everywhere, no matter where you are in Oman. As it is a cultural adventure for both visitors and natives, it also offers stunning views and memorable moments. 

Tourism During National Day

Tourism during National Oman Day is an ideal chance to explore the Omani cultural events and performances. You can taste numerous traditional dishes, like halwa, sua, and so on. Also, you can participate in nature-based activities, as it has various tourist attractions during Oman National Day. It includes various beaches, Desert Safari, kitesurfing, and much more. 

Additionally, it is important for you to come in Omani traditional attire if you want to join in any cultural activity. Many cities and communities organize local festive occasions in honor of the national day. Most of the events are specially designed for locals and anyone curious about the culture, including sports activities, cultural displays, street markets, food stalls, and many more. 

Are you visiting first time during National Oman Day? No need to worry about how to get around. As public transport is limited outside, renting a car allows you to visit major cities and travel at your own pace. If you are more into off-roading, a 4WD vehicle is a great way to explore the desert and mountains. In addition, this is an excellent chance to see the unique culture and unity of the people. 

Interesting Facts About the National Day of Oman

In honor of both the Sultan’s birthday and freedom from the Portuguese, it is celebrated every year on 18th November. Here are some interesting facts about the Oman National Day:

• It showcases the nation’s unique culture, identity, and achievements.
• Oman gained independence from the Portuguese in 1650, making it the oldest independent state in the Arab world.
• The day also celebrated the legacy of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who transformed Oman into a modern, successful nation. 
• It offers numerous events for people of all ages, like participating in traditional dances, parades, and so on.
  Omanis decorate their home, buildings, and cars in the national colours of the Omani flag.
• National anthems and military parades are unique key celebrations, demonstrating national pride and unity. 

Oman National Day events and activities 2025

There are various events and activities held during the Oman National Day. Natives and visitors both can participate in various activities. Some key events and activities are:

Military Parade

The Glorious National Day Military Parade on the key highlight. It showcases different units of the Sultan of Oman’s Armed Forces, like Special Forces, the Royal Guard, the Royal Oman Police, and so on.

Cultural Performances

The different dance and musical shows are entertaining and captivating.  Additionally, concerts, traditional camel races, and horse shows are other forms of entertainment and promote Omani heritage. 

Fireworks

Fireworks Displays create a spectacular and colourful explosion at night. It entertains the people with a stunning view of the sky in different cities, like Salalah, Muscat, Sohar, etc

Community Gatherings 

The community organized various events to make this event more special.  Razha sword dances and Al Aazi poems are almost present in every community gathering. 

Commonly eaten Food during Oman National Day 

Generally, every culture and community has its own cultural dishes. Family and communities gather to share traditional food in order to celebrate this unique occasion, like:

• Majboos: A plate of rice served with chicken or lamb, and including a variety of species and vegetables. It is also known as Kabsa and is garnished with fried nuts, raisins, and onion, adding an extra flavourful and a touch of sweetness. 
• Shuwa: This lamb dish is cooked underground in the sand oven at very low temperatures for many hours. A beautiful pair of rice and meat provides a rich flavour, making it a must-try dish. 
• Harees: It is considered a healthy option on National Oman Day. This comforting food is a mixture of wheat and meat. It is slowly cooked until it comes into a creamy consistency. 
• Halwa: One of the popular sweets of Omanis, Halwa is usually enjoyed with Omani coffee. A mixture of sugar, saffron, rosewater, and nuts, it offers an aromatic flavour. Each family has its own recipe for making halwa and loves to enjoy it together, especially during Oman National Day.

FAQs About Oman National Day​

1. When is the National Day of Oman celebrated?

In recent years, the National Oman Day has been celebrated every year on 18th November. The event is taking place on 20 November 2025, with numerous cultural events, official ceremonies, and other activities. Additionally, many schools and offices close, allowing people to enjoy the event with family and friends. 

2. Why is Oman’s National Day important?

As a mark of Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said and a reminder of the country’s freedom, the Oman National Day is the most significant event. Also, it showcases a continuous journey of growth and development, making Oman a modern and respected state. 

3. How do Omanis celebrate the National Day?

Omains celebrate the National Day with joy and respect. People love to decorate their homes, cars, buildings, and shops with the national colours, like red, green, and white. While exploring the market, you can spot Oman flags everywhere, which indicates their love for the nation. 

4. Is National Day a public holiday in Oman?

Yes, it is an annual public holiday in Oman, known as National Oman Day. The government often declares a holiday for offices, schools, and so on. Also, it commemorates the anniversary of Sultan Qaboos bin Said ruled from 1970 to 2020, turning an isolated country into a modern, united nation. 

5. Can tourists join National Day celebrations in Oman?

Tourists can join various Oman national day celebrations​. The celebrations contain cultural displays, fun activities, and other performances, encouraging viewers to participate. All you have to do is wear traditional Omani attire or clothing in national colours. In addition, meets and greets people by saying “As-salaam alaykum”. 

6. What makes National Day in Oman unique?

The entire celebration during Oman National Day highlights the Omani heritage, cultural identity, and unity. Attending the parades, fireworks displays, and other cultural performances creates a unique festive atmosphere. Visiting during the National Day of Oman provides a great opportunity to experience Omani culture.