Public Holidays in Oman 2026 – Islamic & National Holidays
Oman observes both fixed national holidays and Islamic religious holidays whose dates depend on the lunar calendar (moon sighting). Public holidays are announced through royal decrees, and unlike systems such as Public Holidays in Norway, Oman frequently grants substitute non-working days when a holiday falls on a weekend.
Travel Tip: Eid periods and National Day are peak travel seasons. Visitors often explore places to visit in Oman and reserve accommodation through best hotels in Oman well in advance.
Public Holidays in Oman (2026)
| Date | Weekday | Holiday | Remarks / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day | Fixed national holiday |
| January 11 | Sunday | Accession Day | Marks the Sultan’s accession |
| January 12 | Monday | Accession Day (observed) | Substitute holiday |
| January 16 | Friday | Al Israa Wal Miraj | Islamic observance (approximate) |
| March 20–24 (approx.) | Varies | Eid al-Fitr Holidays | Multi-day; subject to moon sighting |
| May 26 | Tuesday | Arafat Day | Day before Eid al-Adha |
| May 27 | Wednesday | Eid al-Adha | Main feast day |
| May 28–30 | Thu–Sat | Eid al-Adha Holidays | Additional non-working days |
| June 17 | Wednesday | Islamic New Year | Lunar-based observance |
| August 26 | Wednesday | Prophet’s Birthday (Mawlid) | Islamic observance |
| November 18 | Wednesday | National Day | Oman National Day |
| November 19 | Thursday | National Day Holiday | Second official day |
Public Holidays in Oman (2025)
| Date | Weekday | Holiday | Remarks / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day | Fixed national holiday |
| January 11 | Saturday | Accession Day | Royal accession |
| January 12 | Sunday | Accession Day (observed) | Substitute holiday |
| January 27 | Monday | Al Israa Wal Miraj | Islamic observance |
| March 31 – April 4 (approx.) | Varies | Eid al-Fitr Holidays | Multi-day; lunar-based |
| June 5 | Thursday | Arafat Day | Pre-Eid holiday |
| June 6 | Friday | Eid al-Adha | Main feast day |
| June 7–9 | Sat–Mon | Eid al-Adha Holidays | Extended observance |
| June 29 | Sunday | Islamic New Year | Observed |
| September 5 | Friday | Prophet’s Birthday | Mawlid |
| November 18 | Tuesday | National Day | National celebration |
| November 19 | Wednesday | National Day Holiday | Second official day |
Rules & Observance Notes
- Public holidays are announced by royal decree and may vary slightly year to year.
- Islamic holidays depend on moon sighting and may shift by one day.
- When a holiday falls on Friday or Saturday, Oman usually grants a substitute weekday.
- Eid holidays are typically 3–5 days long.
- Additional royal or commemorative holidays may be declared.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Oman have in 2026?
Oman observes approximately 12–14 public holidays in 2026, depending on lunar observances and official decrees.
Does Oman substitute holidays that fall on weekends?
Yes. Oman commonly provides substitute non-working days when holidays fall on Friday or Saturday.
Are Eid holidays the same length every year?
No. Eid holidays typically last between 3 and 5 days, depending on government announcements.
Which holidays are fixed in Oman?
New Year’s Day, Accession Day, and National Day are fixed-date holidays.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Oman reflect Islamic heritage and national identity. With extended Eid breaks and weekend substitution rules, careful planning is essential for both residents and travelers—especially as lunar-based dates may change annually.
