Get ready for a four-day weekend in January

Muscat: Citizens and residents can start planning ahead for a four-day weekend in January 2026, as two public holidays fall conveniently around a weekend.

Sultan’s Accession Day will be observed on Thursday, January 15, 2026, while Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj will be marked on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

When combined with the regular weekend holidays on Friday, January 16, and Saturday, January 17, the break creates a continuous four-day holiday.

The extended weekend follows the Sultanate of Oman’s announcement of the official schedule of national and religious public holidays for 2026. The early release of the holiday calendar has been widely welcomed by residents, businesses and tourism operators, allowing better planning for travel, family gatherings and leisure activities.

The advance announcement is expected to boost domestic tourism and provide greater clarity for both the public and private sectors as they plan operations and events for the year ahead.