Daijiworld Media Network - Muscat
Muscat, Nov 9: In celebration of the Sultanate’s 55th National Day, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has declared Wednesday, November 26, and Thursday, November 27, 2025, as official holidays for employees in both public and private sectors across Oman.
The announcement, issued through Royal orders, underscores the Sultan’s commitment to modernizing national observances while honoring the country’s rich heritage and continued progress.
According to the declaration, all employees in Oman’s State Administrative Apparatus, legal entities, and private establishments will receive the two-day holiday. Employers who require staff to work during these days for operational reasons must provide appropriate compensation in line with labor regulations.
The Oman News Agency (ONA) confirmed the decision on Sunday, highlighting that the move aligns with the broader National Day celebrations.
Modernized National Day Framework
Traditionally observed on November 18, Oman’s National Day holiday was redefined earlier this year following Royal Decree No. 15/2025, which amended Decree No. 88/2022.
Under the new decree:
• Article I reestablishes November 20–21 as the official National Day holidays.
• Article II mandates the decree’s publication in the Official Gazette (Issue 1581) on January 26, 2025, marking its implementation.
The change was designed to standardize observances and align them with modern scheduling practices, providing citizens with a continuous two-day celebration that retains the historic essence of Oman’s independence.
Extended Holiday in 2025
For 2025, Sultan Haitham’s government has extended the observance further by designating November 26–27 as additional official holidays, creating a four-day break when combined with the weekend (Nov 28–29). Work will resume on Sunday, November 30.
National Celebrations and Significance
The extended break will enable Omani citizens and residents to actively participate in National Day festivities, which traditionally feature:
• Cultural performances and heritage exhibitions.
• Public ceremonies showcasing Omani progress and unity.
• Landmark illuminations with the national flag’s colors.
This year’s celebration comes amid Oman’s ongoing implementation of Oman Vision 2040, a long-term national strategy focused on economic diversification, sustainable development, and modernization.
Officials noted that the expanded holiday schedule reflects Sultan Haitham’s vision of balancing progress with tradition, allowing the nation to celebrate both its proud history and dynamic future.