Daijiworld Media Network – Muscat

Muscat, Nov 5: Starting in 2025, Oman will officially observe a two-day National Day holiday for the first time in its history, commemorating the 1650 expulsion of Portuguese forces that restored the nation’s sovereignty. The new holiday, set for November 20 and 21, will serve not only as a remembrance of independence but also as a celebration of Omani identity, culture, and unity.

The National Day marks the historic victory of Omani forces led by Imam Sultan Bin Saif, who successfully expelled the Portuguese from Muscat and other ports on November 18, 1650. The Portuguese had first arrived in Oman in 1507, establishing control over trade routes and fortifying Muscat as a key naval base. Decades of exploitation eventually led to resistance by the Al-Ya’ribi clan, who, with strategic support from the British East India Company, weakened Portuguese control, paving the way for Omani liberation.

To modernize and extend the observance, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik issued Royal Decree No. 15/2025 on January 21, 2025, amending the earlier decree (No. 88/2022). The new law, published in the Official Gazette (Issue 1581) on January 26, 2025, officially declared November 20 and 21 as the National Day of the Sultanate of Oman.

Under the decree:

• Article I amends the previous law to read: “National Day of the Sultanate of Oman: November 20 and 21.”
• Article II mandates the decree’s publication in the Official Gazette and its enforcement upon issuance.

The two-day National Day celebrations will include patriotic and cultural events such as student performances of the national anthem Salâm as-Sol?âni, parades, fireworks, camel and horse races, and marine festivals. Once every five years, a grand military parade is also organized as part of the festivities.

During this period, many Omanis travel to their hometowns to celebrate with family, leading to increased intercity travel and a festive atmosphere nationwide.

Oman’s National Day continues to stand as a symbol of independence, pride, and unity — linking the nation’s rich historical legacy with its modern spirit under the leadership of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.