National Day of Oman (2026)

National Day is the main official public holiday in the Sultanate of Oman. It is celebrated on the 18th of November every year to commemorate the country’s independence from Portuguese control in 1650. Likewise, most people in Oman see this date as the start of a two-day break since November 19 is also a public holiday, in observance of Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said’s birthday.

Here is everything you need to know about National Day in Oman.

Table of Contents

• Is National Day in Oman a public holiday?
• History of National Day in Oman
• Oman National Day Activities and Celebrations
• Past and Future Observances of National Day in Oman

Is National Day in Oman a public holiday?

Oman’s National Day is considered a public holiday. Government offices and schools are closed on this day and the day after because of the celebration of the Sultan’s birthday. Most businesses are usually closed on November 18 and 19.

History of National Day in Oman

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. However, the Al-Ya’ribi clan in Oman signed a treaty with the British East India Company allowing the British rights to their ports, in response to the Portuguese arrival. The effort succeeded and Portuguese control over Muscat weakened. On November 18, 1650, Imam Sultan Bin Saif spearheaded a rebellion which eventually expelled the Portuguese from Oman. This move makes Oman the oldest independent Arab state in modern history.

Oman National Day Activities and Celebrations

National Day in Oman is celebrated with various activities. The highlight of National Day celebrations is the Glorious National Day Military Parade, which has been held in different cities across Oman since the 1970s. There are also camel races, horse shows, and fireworks display to mark the event. Likewise, a military exhibition drill takes place once every five years in celebration of the National Day. The streets of Oman are also decorated with the national flag and images of Sultan Qaboos bin Said. Moreover, most people in Oman take this holiday break to bond with their families and visit friends.

Past and Future Observances of National Day in Oman

Below are the past and future observances of National Day in Oman: