The National Day of Oman is on the 18 November. This being the birthday of Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said of Oman. See the history on the national day of Oman here. It marks the anniversary of the country’s independence from Portugal in 1650, as well as the birthday of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who ruled Oman from 1970 until his death in 2020.
National Day of Oman
Oman gained its independence from Portugal in 1650. In the early 16th century, Portugal established a trading post in Muscat, the capital city of Oman. Then as part of their efforts to control the Indian Ocean trade overtime the Portuguese expanded their control over other parts of Oman, including the city of Sohar and the island of Hormuz. See also the (National Day of South Africa). The route of colonisation was the same as with the Dutch and the Khoi at Cape Town.
Then by the mid-17th century, a local Omani leader named Imam Sultan bin Saif led a rebellion against the Portuguese. With the help of other Omani tribes, he gradually pushed the Portuguese out of Oman and established the Imamate of Oman.
Under the leadership of the Imams, Oman experienced a period of stability and prosperity. They worked to strengthen Oman’s military, trade, and diplomatic ties with neighboring countries. Oman became a major player in the regional trade networks, exporting frankincense, dates, and other goods.
Today, Oman celebrates its independence from Portugal (National Day of Portugal) on 18th November annually as thier National Day. The day is marked with parades, fireworks, and other festivities across the country, as Omanis reflect on their history and national identity.
See also the National Day of Palestine as well as the National Day of Qatar.
Public Holidays in Oman
Here are the major public holidays in Oman:
- Islamic New Year (1 Muharram): The first day of the Islamic calendar, usually in August or September.
- Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (12 Rabi’ al-Awwal): Celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad
- Renaissance Day (23 July): Commemoration of the day in 1970 when Sultan Qaboos bin Said rose to power
- National Day (18 November): independence from Portugal in 1650 and the birthday of Sultan Qaboos bin Said.
- Eid al-Fitr (1 Shawwal): Celebration of the end of the holy month of Ramadan, usually in May or June.
- Eid al-Adha (10 Dhu al-Hijjah): Celebration of the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, usually in July or August.
In addition to these public holidays, some government and private sector companies may have additional holidays
