Oman National Day 2025: November 20–21 Declared Official Holidays by Royal Decree

Oman will celebrate its first-ever formal two-day National Day holiday beginning in 2025, marking a significant milestone in the country’s history and cultural identity. The extended break, set for November 20 and 21, commemorates the 1650 expulsion of Portuguese forces—a defining moment that restored Oman’s sovereignty and control over its ports.

More than just a public holiday, the occasion symbolizes national pride, unity, and family togetherness, offering Omanis a longer period to reflect on their nation’s heritage and achievements.

Historical Roots: Oman’s Struggle for Independence

Oman’s National Day traces back to a pivotal chapter in its history. The Portuguese first arrived in 1507, establishing control over Muscat and other ports to safeguard their Indian Ocean trade routes. However, local resistance grew over time, particularly from the influential Al-Ya’ribi clan, who opposed Portuguese dominance and economic exploitation.

By signing a treaty with the British East India Company, the Al-Ya’ribi clan strategically weakened Portuguese influence. This alliance paved the way for Imam Sultan Bin Saif’s decisive rebellion, which culminated on November 18, 1650, when Omani forces successfully expelled the Portuguese from the country.

This historic victory laid the foundation for Oman’s independence—and remains the cornerstone of its National Day celebrations.

Royal Decree and Modern Observance

Traditionally, Oman’s National Day was observed on November 18. However, in a move to modernize and extend the celebrations, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik issued Royal Decree No. 15/2025 on January 21, 2025, amending Royal Decree No. 88/2022.

The new decree officially designates November 20 and 21 as the National Day holidays, creating a continuous two-day observance. It was published in the Official Gazette (Issue 1581) on January 26, 2025, and came into immediate effect.

Key provisions of the decree include:

• Article I: Amendment of Royal Decree 88/2022 to read “National Day of the Sultanate of Oman: 20 and 21 November.”
• Article II: The decree takes effect upon publication in the Official Gazette.

This change ensures both historical preservation and a unified period of celebration across the nation.

How Oman Celebrates National Day

The two-day holiday is marked with vibrant cultural and patriotic events across the Sultanate:

• Students sing the national anthem, Salâm as-Solṭâni, at schools and public venues.
• Cities light up with fireworks, parades, camel races, equestrian shows, and marine festivals.
• Once every five years, a grand military parade is held in honor of the nation’s leadership and armed forces.

The long weekend also sees many Omanis traveling to their hometowns, reflecting the holiday’s focus on community bonding and national unity.

Symbol of Pride and Progress

Oman’s National Day is both a tribute to its historic triumph over colonial rule and a celebration of its modern identity under visionary leadership. By transitioning to a two-day holiday, Oman not only honors its past struggles for freedom but also reinforces its commitment to cultural heritage, unity, and progress.

The National Day 2025 marks a new chapter in Oman’s history—a proud reminder of how a nation that once fought for sovereignty now stands strong, independent, and united.