Oman National Day | History, Events & Activities

Oman National Day is a festive and joyful occasion that celebrates the sultanate's history, identity, culture, and achievements. It commemorates the day when Oman gained independence from Portuguese colonization in 1650, making it the oldest independent state in the Arab world. 

The celebration of Oman National Day provides an opportunity for Omanis to showcase their loyalty and gratitude towards their nation. 

When is Oman National Day celebrated?

Oman National Day is celebrated on the 18th of November every year and is an official public holiday. 

However, people in Oman see this date as the start of a two-day break since November 19th is a public holiday, in observance of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said's birthday. He ruled Oman from 1970 to 2020 and transformed the country into a modern, prosperous nation.

Oman National Day history and significance

Oman National Day holds great historical and cultural significance as it marks the liberation of Oman from Portuguese colonization.

In 1507, the Portuguese arrived in Oman after Vasco Da Gama's voyage around the Cape of Good Hope and India. They used Muscat as a port to protect their trade routes to India and gradually extended their control along the coast up to Sohar in the north and down to Sur in the southeast. 

On November 18th, 1650, Imam Sultan bin Saif spearheaded a rebellion that eventually expelled the Portuguese from Oman.

For the people of Oman, Oman National Day is a source of immense pride and joy.

Oman National Day 2023 events and activities

On Oman National Day, Omanis participate in various cultural and military events. Citizens demonstrate their patriotism and celebrate their culture and heritage through a range of activities. 

The streets, buildings, shops, houses, and cars are adorned with the colors of the Omani flag (white, red, and green) and images of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said.

The highlight of the celebration is the Glorious National Day Military Parade, which features different units of the Sultan of Oman's Armed Forces.

Omanis also enjoy a musical performance and a pledge of loyalty and allegiance to the Sultan, fireworks displays, concerts, camel races, horse shows, and other festivals that take place in different cities across Oman.

Moreover, once every five years, a military exhibition drill is also held to mark the occasion.