Tuesday 18 / November / 2025
Muscat: A spellbinding wave of colour has swept across the Sultanate of Oman as the nation prepares to mark its Glorious National Day this Thursday — an occasion that commemorates the Al Busaidi State Foundation Day on 20 November and celebrates the country’s long-standing legacy of pride, unity and progress under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
As dusk falls across Muscat, the city undergoes a breathtaking transformation.
Avenues shimmer under cascading lights, building façades glow with soft hues of red, white and green, and palm-lined boulevards sparkle like ribbons of light stretching into the horizon.
The festive glow reflects off vehicles, buildings and even in the streets, giving Muscat an almost dreamlike, celebratory aura.
Along major roads, flags ripple in the cool November breeze, catching the sunlight by day and swaying gently under the evening glow.
Cars adorned with patriotic ribbons, decals and portraits of His Majesty create a moving tapestry of colour, weaving through the city like a procession of pride.
In the heart of the celebrations, Qurum Beach—already a beloved landmark—has been transformed into a stage for one of the most anticipated spectacles of the season.
On November 21, between 4pm and 10pm, the shoreline will witness an extraordinary maritime display.
Vessels of the Royal Navy of Oman will glide across the water in synchronised formation, their sleek bodies reflecting the lights from the coast.
They will be joined by units from the Royal Oman Police, the Royal Yachts, and navies from GCC countries, creating a majestic tableau of strength, unity and maritime tradition.
To facilitate the festivities, traffic restrictions have been put in place between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Roundabout and the Qurum Beach Roundabout.
The closure, which began on Tuesday, November 18, continues until 3pm on Saturday, November 22.
Authorities have urged motorists to use alternative routes, emphasising that public cooperation will ensure a smooth and joyous celebration for all.
Across Muscat, the festive atmosphere is impossible to miss. Souqs burst with colour, their stalls piled high with scarves, badges, lanterns and National Day trinkets that shoppers excitedly sift through. Vendors wave small flags and call out offers, while children run between stalls, their faces painted in national hues.
Even car garages—usually quiet, practical spaces—have turned into lively hubs of creativity.
Mechanics carefully apply decals and designs onto car bodies, turning everyday vehicles into moving tributes to the nation and to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
As Oman celebrates its National Day, the country radiates pride from every corner.
The skies, the streets, the shorelines—every space echoes with the spirit of unity and heritage.
This year’s celebration promises to leave behind unforgettable images of a nation glowing with colour, joy and deep patriotic devotion.
