A celebration of tradition and digital innovation
The hashtag #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid first gained traction several years ago as a way for Omanis to share glimpses of their Eid celebrations
Published: 05:03 PM,Mar 31,2025 | EDITED : 09:03 PM,Mar 31,2025
Eid in Oman is a time of joy, community and deep-rooted traditions, but in recent years, it has also become a moment of digital expression. One of the most anticipated aspects of Eid in Oman is the viral hashtag #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid, which has transformed the way Omanis celebrate and share their experiences. More than just a platform for showcasing festivities, this hashtag has evolved into a digital phenomenon that captures the essence of Omani creativity on social media. It exemplifies how Omanis use X (formerly Twitter) not only to promote their culture and heritage but also to create new traditions that include everyone — men, women and people with disabilities alike.
The hashtag #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid first gained traction several years ago as a way for Omanis to share glimpses of their Eid celebrations. At first, it was mainly used to post pictures of family gatherings, traditional outfits and special Eid meals. However, over time, it became much more than just a photo-sharing trend. Today, it is an integral part of Eid in Oman, eagerly anticipated by people across the country and the wider Arabian Gulf. The hashtag serves as a collective digital album that unites Omanis from different regions, creating a sense of nationwide festivity in a way that was never possible before social media.
What makes #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid special is how it blends tradition with modern digital engagement. Through this hashtag, Omanis do not just document their celebrations; they actively contribute to cultural preservation and innovation. Traditional practices such as preparing shuwa (marinated lamb slow-cooked underground), wearing dishdashas and abayas, and attending the Eid prayer are highlighted and celebrated. At the same time, new customs emerge — such as creative photography challenges, artistic expressions of Eid joy and even digital storytelling about family histories.
Omanis on X have proven to be highly creative in using social media as a tool for cultural promotion. Through #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid, they have managed to turn personal moments into collective memories, allowing even those living abroad to feel connected to their homeland. Moreover, this hashtag has encouraged people from different generations to engage with social media in a meaningful way. Elders who may not be active online are often featured in posts, showcasing inter-generational bonds and the passing down of traditions.
Another remarkable aspect of #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid is its inclusivity. The hashtag is used by Omanis of all ages and backgrounds, including men, women and people with disabilities. It has provided a platform for individuals with disabilities to share their experiences and be seen as an integral part of Omani society. Some posts highlight accessible Eid celebrations, showing how families and communities make an effort to include everyone in the festivities. Others showcase the contributions of artists and content creators with disabilities, proving that digital spaces can be empowering for all.
In many ways, the viral success of this hashtag demonstrates the strength of Omani social cohesion. It is not just about showcasing beautiful images — it is about participation, representation and national pride. The overwhelming engagement with #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid each year reinforces the idea that social media can be a unifying force, bringing together Omanis regardless of physical location or social status.
Eid in Oman is a celebration of faith, family and tradition, but in the digital age, it has also become a celebration of creativity and connectivity. The #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid hashtag has grown into an essential part of the festivities, proving that social media can be used not only to share cultural heritage but to shape it. Through this annual digital tradition, Omanis have demonstrated how X can serve as a powerful tool for cultural preservation, innovation and inclusivity. As Eid approaches each year, Omanis eagerly look forward to contributing to and engaging with this online movement, ensuring that both old and new traditions continue to thrive in an ever-evolving digital world.
The writer is Associate Professor, Sultan Qaboos University
The hashtag #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid first gained traction several years ago as a way for Omanis to share glimpses of their Eid celebrations. At first, it was mainly used to post pictures of family gatherings, traditional outfits and special Eid meals. However, over time, it became much more than just a photo-sharing trend. Today, it is an integral part of Eid in Oman, eagerly anticipated by people across the country and the wider Arabian Gulf. The hashtag serves as a collective digital album that unites Omanis from different regions, creating a sense of nationwide festivity in a way that was never possible before social media.
What makes #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid special is how it blends tradition with modern digital engagement. Through this hashtag, Omanis do not just document their celebrations; they actively contribute to cultural preservation and innovation. Traditional practices such as preparing shuwa (marinated lamb slow-cooked underground), wearing dishdashas and abayas, and attending the Eid prayer are highlighted and celebrated. At the same time, new customs emerge — such as creative photography challenges, artistic expressions of Eid joy and even digital storytelling about family histories.
Omanis on X have proven to be highly creative in using social media as a tool for cultural promotion. Through #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid, they have managed to turn personal moments into collective memories, allowing even those living abroad to feel connected to their homeland. Moreover, this hashtag has encouraged people from different generations to engage with social media in a meaningful way. Elders who may not be active online are often featured in posts, showcasing inter-generational bonds and the passing down of traditions.
Another remarkable aspect of #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid is its inclusivity. The hashtag is used by Omanis of all ages and backgrounds, including men, women and people with disabilities. It has provided a platform for individuals with disabilities to share their experiences and be seen as an integral part of Omani society. Some posts highlight accessible Eid celebrations, showing how families and communities make an effort to include everyone in the festivities. Others showcase the contributions of artists and content creators with disabilities, proving that digital spaces can be empowering for all.
In many ways, the viral success of this hashtag demonstrates the strength of Omani social cohesion. It is not just about showcasing beautiful images — it is about participation, representation and national pride. The overwhelming engagement with #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid each year reinforces the idea that social media can be a unifying force, bringing together Omanis regardless of physical location or social status.
Eid in Oman is a celebration of faith, family and tradition, but in the digital age, it has also become a celebration of creativity and connectivity. The #Omani_Snapshot_in_Eid hashtag has grown into an essential part of the festivities, proving that social media can be used not only to share cultural heritage but to shape it. Through this annual digital tradition, Omanis have demonstrated how X can serve as a powerful tool for cultural preservation, innovation and inclusivity. As Eid approaches each year, Omanis eagerly look forward to contributing to and engaging with this online movement, ensuring that both old and new traditions continue to thrive in an ever-evolving digital world.
The writer is Associate Professor, Sultan Qaboos University