The Sultanate of Oman has returned to its regular pace on Monday, January 19th, 2026, following a delightful four-day long weekend. This extended break, coinciding with Accession Day on January 15th and the Isra wal Mi‘raj holiday on January 18th, provided a welcome respite for citizens and residents, and saw a significant boost to local tourism and economic activity. The combination of cultural celebrations and appealing winter destinations made this a particularly memorable break for many.
Muscat Nights 2026: A Hub of Entertainment
A major draw for many during the long weekend was Muscat Nights 2026, the capital’s annual festival that seamlessly blends Omani heritage with modern technological marvels. The event witnessed a remarkable surge in visitors across all its venues, offering a diverse range of entertainment and cultural experiences. Popular spots like Qurum Park and Amerat Park were bustling with activity, providing fun for the entire family.
Festival Highlights
This year’s festival featured several standout attractions. The Siraj light festival illuminated the night sky, while breathtaking drone shows and synchronized water fountain displays captivated audiences. Daily fireworks added to the festive atmosphere, and cultural evenings showcased the rich traditions of Oman. An official from Muscat Nights noted the overwhelming attendance, stating, “Almost all the venues are teeming with people of all ages.”
Beyond the entertainment value, Muscat Nights 2026 actively focused on supporting the Omani economy. The festival expanded opportunities for local job seekers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), providing a platform for them to showcase their products and services. The festivities are scheduled to continue until January 31st, offering further opportunities for both residents and tourists to participate.
Escape to the Mountains: Jabal Akhdar and Jabal Shams
As temperatures cooled across the Sultanate, the Al Hajar mountain range became the destination of choice for those seeking a refreshing winter escape. Jabal Akhdar and Jabal Shams, in particular, experienced a significant influx of visitors eager to enjoy the cooler climate and stunning scenery. Oman tourism benefited greatly from this internal travel surge.
Jabal Shams, Oman’s highest peak, recorded a particularly low temperature of minus 0.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, making it a truly unique experience for visitors. Raj, a private-sector employee, shared his enjoyment, saying, “It was a nice break to enjoy with my family at Jabal Shams as it was freezing cold.” Hotel occupancy rates in the mountain regions soared, with dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar, reporting an “exceptional weekend,” according to General Manager Jagdeep Thakral.
Family Time and Local Exploration
For many, the long weekend was a valuable opportunity to reconnect with family and explore different parts of the country. Mohammed Al Abri, a professional, spent the holidays in his village near Hamra, appreciating the pleasant mountain climate. This highlights the importance of domestic tourism in Oman.
The positive impact of the break extended to commercial areas as well. Shopping malls and hypermarkets reported a noticeable increase in foot traffic as residents prepared for the return to work and school. Cafés and restaurants also benefited from the increased activity, particularly during the evening hours when families and friends gathered to enjoy meals and socialize.
A Rejuvenating Break for All
The extended holiday provided a much-needed break for individuals across various sectors. Altaf Al Balushi, a banking professional, expressed a sentiment shared by many, stating, “Such short breaks rejuvenate us physically and mentally. It feels good to be back at work after an extended weekend.” For expatriates, staycations in the cooler regions of Jabal Akhdar, Jabal Shams, and Hamra were a popular option, with hotels reporting high occupancy rates.
The success of this Muscat holiday demonstrates the growing appeal of Oman as a tourism destination, both for international visitors and its own residents. The combination of cultural events, natural beauty, and a commitment to supporting local businesses makes Oman a unique and attractive place to spend a vacation. The increased spending during the break also provided a welcome boost to the Oman economy.
As the Sultanate returns to its routine, the positive memories and economic benefits of this long weekend will undoubtedly linger. We encourage you to share your experiences from the break in the comments below and to explore the many wonders Oman has to offer. For more information on upcoming events and travel destinations, visit the official Oman tourism website.
