Sunday 28 / December / 2025
For years, many of us in Oman have shared a common struggle — the last-minute surprise. Whether it was a religious holiday or a national celebration, official dates were often confirmed just days — sometimes even hours — before they began. While the spirit of celebration never waned, the logistical challenges were frequently exhausting.
In August 26, 2021, in an article titled “Why are Holidays Always Declared at the Last Minute in Oman? It’s Time for a Change,” I wrote about the urgent need for public holidays to be announced well in advance.
Today, it is with genuine appreciation that I note the Sultanate has taken a transformative step forward by officially announcing the public holiday schedule for 2026.
Beyond a Day Off: Why Advance Notice Matters
To some, a holiday announcement may simply mean time away from work. But for today’s residents and business owners in Oman, it represents something far more important: the ability to manage life with dignity, confidence, and precision.
The government’s decision to provide this clear roadmap is more than a convenience; it is a vital service that positively impacts several key areas:
Healthcare and Appointments
For patients and doctors alike, scheduling surgeries or specialised consultations requires weeks — sometimes months — of preparation. Early announcements mean fewer cancelled appointments and no more disrupted medical travel plans due to a suddenly declared midweek holiday.
Legal and Business Certainty
Court hearings, regulatory processes, and high-stakes business meetings can now be scheduled with confidence, knowing that offices will not unexpectedly close. This stability is essential for a professional, investor-friendly economy.
Travel and Hospitality
Families can finally plan their holidays and book flights and hotels without the fear of losing deposits or missing early-bird offers. At the same time, the local tourism and hospitality sector benefits from improved forecasting and operational planning.
A Relief for the People
In the past, the absence of a clear holiday calendar often left people “trapped” by uncertainty. Planning a simple family gathering or a short getaway felt like a gamble. By moving away from the surprise model, the government has demonstrated genuine empathy for the everyday realities of citizens and residents.
This approach aligns seamlessly with Oman Vision 2040, reflecting a shift towards a more organised, transparent, and digitally ready administration. It shows a government that listens — and understands that a well-planned nation is, ultimately, a more productive one.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With the 2026 calendar now officially announced — from Accession Day in January to the adjusted National Day celebrations in November — we can all breathe a collective sigh of relief.
We are no longer reactive; we are proactive.
On behalf of professionals, parents, entrepreneurs, and travellers across the Sultanate, I extend a sincere note of gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
This thoughtful step has removed a significant layer of stress from daily life and replaced it with something invaluable: time, certainty, and the freedom to plan.
