Set on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula with shorelines along the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman, the Sultanate blends rugged mountains, canyon-like wadis, and warm desert coasts with a culture that loves to celebrate. From Muscat’s winter festivities to Salalah’s monsoon (Khareef) season, festivals in Oman are welcoming, family-friendly, and packed with heritage—think camel races, traditional music and dance, souks, crafts, and fireworks.

Good news for visitors in 2026: with Oman eVisa you can apply entirely online and track your status easily—ideal if you’re timing a trip around a festival.

Why Omani Festivals Are Special

Authentic, community-led celebrations

Most events are designed to preserve and showcase heritage—you’ll find real craft, real food, and real folklore (not stagey tourism).

Safe, family-friendly atmosphere

Expect plenty of kids’ zones, parades, performances, and late evenings with lights, food stalls, and live music.

Great value

Typical entry fees (when applicable) are modest, and most cultural displays in public spaces are free to watch.

Quick Festival Calendar 2026 (Indicative)

Dates vary slightly each year; final schedules are announced closer to the event. Use this as a planning framework.

Jan–Feb – Muscat winter celebrations (often branded “Muscat Nights”): concerts, crafts, parades, food villages. (h3)
Feb–Mar – Camel Racing Season culminates with the Sultan Camel Race Cup in various regions. (h3)
Mar/Apr & Jun/Jul – Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: communal prayers, family feasts, traditional dances. (h3)
Jul–Sep – Salalah Tourism Festival (Khareef): celebrates the unique green monsoon in Dhofar with shows, markets, rides. (h3)
Nov 18 – National Day: parades, flags, light displays, cultural shows nationwide. (h3)

Spotlight: Major Festivals to Experience

Muscat Winter Celebrations

Where: Parks and waterfronts across Muscat
Why go: Night markets, folk troupes, theatrical shows, fireworks, carnival rides, and cuisine from every governorate.
Tips: Arrive early evenings, use ride-hailing or public parking, and keep cash (small notes) for stalls.

Salalah Tourism Festival — Khareef

Where: Salalah, Dhofar (south Oman)
When: Monsoon season (typically July–September)
Why go: Misty hills, waterfalls, lush meadows (rare in the Gulf), packed cultural program, food courts, and handicrafts.
Tips: Book flights and stays well in advance; carry a light jacket—temperatures drop with the mist.

Sultan Camel Race Cup

Where: Dedicated race tracks across Oman; finals announced seasonally
Why go: A quintessential desert sport—pure adrenaline, cheering crowds, and tribal pride on display.
Tips: Bring sunglasses/hat; expect morning or late-afternoon starts.

Eid Festivals (Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha)

Why go: Streets light up after prayers; expect traditional dances, mishkak (grilled skewers), family picnics, and sweet Omani halwa with kahwa (cardamom coffee).
Etiquette: Dress modestly; ask before photographing people; many offices/shops keep holiday hours.

National Day (18 November)

Why go: Patriotism, parades, lighting displays, heritage concerts, and special museum programs.
Tip: Urban traffic can be busy—allow extra time.

Festival Etiquette & Practical Tips

Dress code: Modest clothing (shoulders/knees covered). A light scarf is handy for mosques and breeze. (h3)
Photography: Always ask consent, especially for women and in private settings. (h3)
Cash & payments: Cards widely accepted in cities; keep small cash for stalls. (h3)
Transport: Use ride-hailing/taxis in Muscat; in Salalah rent a car to reach scenic sites. (h3)
Weather savvy: Winter nights can be cool up north; Khareef is cooler and misty—pack accordingly. (h3)
Families: Most venues have kids’ areas, clean facilities, and stroller-friendly paths. (h3)

5-Day Sample Festival Itinerary (Winter, Muscat)

Day 1: Arrive Muscat → Mutrah Corniche & Souq evening shows and street food. (h3)
Day 2: Morning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, afternoon Royal Opera House tour → festival night market.
Day 3: Day trip to Nizwa (fort & Friday souq if timing fits) → back to Muscat for concerts/fireworks.
Day 4: Wadi Shab or Bimmah Sinkhole → coastal dinner; catch late-evening cultural troupe.
Day 5: Museums (National Museum/Oman Across Ages)* → last-minute crafts shopping; depart.
*Pick based on what’s open; museum hours vary during holidays.

Food You’ll See at Festivals

Look out for mishkak (grilled skewers), majboos/kabsa (spiced rice with meat), shuwa (festival slow-cooked meat), halwa (signature dessert), and kahwa (cardamom coffee). Perfect souvenirs include dates, frankincense, and silver crafts. (h3)

Visa & Entry: Plan Around Your Festival

Who needs a visa?

Most nationalities require an Oman eVisa; some GCC residents/citizens have special provisions.

Apply Oman Visa Online in 5 steps

Go to Oman eVisa Online
Select nationality & residence country
Choose visa type (tourist/family/business)
Fill the form & upload passport + photo
Pay securely (Visa/MasterCard/PayPal) and track status via email/application ID

Typical processing: 2–5 working days (express options may be available).
Documents: 6-month valid passport, photo, tentative itinerary, accommodation proof.
Pro tip: Apply 2–3 weeks before your festival to lock flights/hotels with confidence.

Conclusion

Whether you’re chasing Khareef mists, camel-race drums, or Muscat’s winter lights, Oman’s festivals put culture center stage—warm, genuine, and unforgettable. Lock your dates, apply your Oman eVisa online, and immerse yourself in 2026’s calendar of color.

👉 Ready to go? Apply Oman Visa Online for fast, secure processing and 24/7 support.