Omani Sidr Makes a Comeback for Eid

As Eid Al Fitr approaches, many women in Oman begin searching for natural ways to give their hair and skin a special glow for the festive days. Among the shelves of modern cosmetics and international beauty products, one traditional ingredient continues to hold its place in many women’s beauty routines, sidr.
Sidr is a perennial desert tree that grows in arid and semi arid environments and is considered one of the native trees of Oman’s natural landscape. It is widely found in valleys and plains across the country because of its ability to adapt to hot climates and limited water resources. The tree also plays an environmental role by helping stabilise soil, providing shade and supporting local biodiversity. Beyond its ecological value, the sidr tree has long been connected to people’s lives in the region. Its ground leaves have traditionally been used for hair and skin care, its fruits are sometimes eaten and its flowers produce one of the region’s most renowned types of honey, sidr honey, known for its high nutritional value.
This close relationship between nature and daily life has made sidr an essential part of traditional beauty practices among women in Oman. Long before modern cosmetic products became common, many women relied on simple natural remedies to care for their hair and skin; and sidr was among the most prominent ingredients passed down through generations.

Today, as interest in natural products grows again, young entrepreneurs are reviving this beauty heritage and presenting it in modern ways. One such initiative is “Sidrah”, a small home based business specialising in traditional Omani hair and skincare products that rely mainly on sidr and its derivatives.
Behind the project is Omani entrepreneur Sarah al Hashmi, who says the idea came from her passion for natural products that protect the beauty and health of hair and skin, as well as her appreciation for remedies long used by mothers and grandmothers. She explains that these mixtures represent a cultural legacy passed down through generations and inspired by natural ingredients.
According to Al Hashmi, sidr is widely used in beauty routines across the Arab world because of its many benefits. It helps nourish and strengthen hair, may reduce hair loss, cleanses and purifies the skin; and can help reduce acne. It also gives hair noticeable shine and softness.
As Eid and other celebrations approach, demand for sidr based products increases. Many women prefer natural remedies to give their hair and skin a healthy appearance before the holiday.
Despite the simplicity of these traditional recipes, sidr’s presence in beauty routines continues to endure, reflecting a renewed interest in the natural ingredients that earlier generations relied on. Today, sidr remains one of the beauty secrets that continues to connect tradition with modern life, especially during seasons when attention to small details helps create the glow of Eid.