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Muscat Daily
4 days ago
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Eid habtas boost trade and traditions of Oman
Muscat – Eid al Adha habtas (traditional markets) have opened across several governorates in Oman, with a surge in commercial activity and public participation. These markets, held in the days leading up to the festival, are showcasing the country's deep-rooted cultural, social and commercial practices. In North Sharqiyah, villages are witnessing brisk trade, especially in Ibra, where evening habta gatherings are drawing large crowds. Open markets and consumer tents have become popular venues, creating a festive atmosphere while contributing to local trade. 'Markets in Sinaw are seeing exceptional commercial activity with the launch of the Eid al Adha habta. There's a strong turnout of shoppers and all necessities are readily available, especially in the livestock market, which is buzzing with activity ahead of the festival,' said Salem al Siyabi from the wilayat of Sinaw. For livestock breeders, the season presents a prime opportunity. Ahmed al Balushi from Suwaiq noted that the demands for sheep, cows and camels are high. 'The habta season presents a lucrative opportunity for breeders to sell their livestock through 'Al Munadah', a traditional bidding process that adds excitement to the sales.' Children are also having a noticeable presence at these markets, dressed in traditional Omani attire and enjoying toys, sweets and nuts. 'The habta truly captures the essence of our customs and traditions passed down through generations,' Balushi added. In North Batinah, merchant Abdullah al Wahaibi highlighted that the seventh day of Dhu al Hijjah typically marks the peak of the habta, as residents purchase Eid essentials such as Omani daggers, men's canes and traditional jewellery. 'These events help showcase local products, support small businesses and promote cultural continuity,' he said. In South Batinah, Nakhal Municipality has ramped up activities in villages and tourist areas ahead of Eid. Meanwhile, in Dakhliyah, preparations are under way with a focus on public hygiene, organising habta markets and livestock souqs, and holding traditional events across the governorate. Municipalities across the country are also prioritising health and safety, preparing slaughterhouses and conducting food safety inspections. Food and Health Control and Licensing departments are ensuring that hygiene standards are met in establishments handling food. To support small businesses and entrepreneurs, the Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development is holding Eid bazaars and product exhibitions in various governorates, promoting local crafts and productive families during the festive season.
Express Tribune
08-04-2025
- General
- Express Tribune
UAE residents to get four Eid ul Adha holidays likely starting from June 6
Listen to article Residents in the United Arab Emirates are expected to receive a four-day holiday for Eid ul Adha starting Friday, June 6, subject to official moon sighting confirmation. According to the Emirates Astronomy Society, the crescent moon marking the start of Dhu al Hijjah, the last month in the Islamic lunar calendar, is likely to be visible on May 27. If so, May 28 would be the first day of the month. This sets the Day of Arafah on Thursday, June 5, and Eid ul Adha on Friday, June 6. The public holiday would span four days — from Thursday to Sunday — aligning with the weekend. Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, Ibrahim Al Jarwan, said the crescent is expected to appear at 07:02am on May 27 and be visible for 38 minutes after sunset. If the moon is not sighted on May 27, the month would begin on May 29, shifting Eid to Saturday, June 7. The holiday would then run through Tuesday, June 10. Eid ul Adha, also known as the 'Feast of Sacrifice,' is marked by prayers, family gatherings, and charitable acts, including the ritual sacrifice of animals. The final confirmation of Eid dates will depend on official moon sightings closer to the time. Moreover, Pakistan's astronomical experts have projected that Eidul Adha will likely fall on Saturday, June 7, 2025, based on early moon sighting predictions. However, the final decision regarding the date will depend on the moon sighting, with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee to announce the official date following the moon's visibility in Pakistan.
