Hockey Oman Carnival to feature over 500 players

MUSCAT, NOV 11: Over 500 players from five countries will feature in the annual Hockey Oman Carnival, to be hosted by Hockey Oman (Oman Hockey Association), in association with UTSC, from November 13 to 15.

The biggest hockey festival in the Mena region will take place at the Hockey Oman International Stadium in Al Amerat, the organisers announced during a function at the Indian Embassy on Tuesday. 

Matches will be played across three grounds, starting every day from 2 pm.

This year’s carnival will feature nine teams from India with international players, along with strong teams from Egypt, UAE, Iraq and Oman. The tournaments include the Gulf Cup Hockey Fiesta for men, the Hockey Oman International Women’s Tournament, the Oman–India School Tournament, and the Masters Cup for players aged 45 and above. These tournaments will showcase some of the finest hockey talent in the region and beyond, highlighting Oman’s strong commitment to developing the sport at all levels.

Godavarthi Venkata Srinivas, Indian Ambassador to Oman, promised full support to the hockey festival.

“The Indian Embassy in Oman is happy to support this great festival of hockey where Indians and Omanis come together, exchange culture and share knowledge,” Srinivas said.

With 47 teams from different countries and over 500 players participating across various categories, the Hockey Oman Carnival promises top-standard competition, cultural exchange, and entertainment for the whole family. 

In the Gulf Hockey Fiesta championship for men, 10 teams will vie for the honours. Pool A will feature Seeb Sports Club, Coorg Hawks Bengaluru (India), Axilators HC Kochi (India), Safety and Security Oman, and FAP Oman. Pool B comprises Ahli Sidab Sports Club, Team Coorg-Muscat, Republican Sports Club, Mumbai (India), Dadabhai Hockey Club Dubai and UTSC.

In the school’s tournament, students will compete in boys under-14 and under-18 and girls under-18 categories.

The Hockey Oman Carnival is organised by Hockey Oman and UTSC. UTSC, a club registered in India with branches in Oman, UAE and Saudi Arabia, plays a key role in promoting hockey at the grassroots level. 

The Oman–India School Tournament aims to encourage school participation and nurture young talent, reflecting Hockey Oman’s long-term vision for the sport. “The future of hockey starts in our schools. Through such initiatives, we are building a strong foundation for the next generation of players in Oman,” said Dr Marwan bin Juma al Juma, OHA Chairman.

FAN VILLAGE

The Hockey Oman Carnival is not only a sporting event but also a celebration of community and culture. The Fan Village, open daily from 5 pm onwards, will offer live entertainment by celebrity singers, cultural performances, fun games for families, tug of war competitions, and vintage car displays. 

A spectacular 600-women dance formation will also take place, which is expected to make history in Oman.

The event is set to attract visitors and hockey fans from across Oman and neighbouring countries, making it a true festival of unity, sportsmanship, and friendship. “The Hockey Oman Carnival is more than a tournament—it’s a statement that Oman is the ultimate destination for hockey in the Mena region. With international players, enthusiastic fans, and vibrant cultural experiences, we are creating history together,” added Dr Marwan al Juma.

“Hockey Oman and UTSC strongly believe that this joint effort and historic tournament will further strengthen Oman’s growing role as a hub for sports, culture and international friendship,” the organisers said.