SABYYA AL GHARIFA, A LIVING TRADITION

In the Wilayat of Al Suwaiq, the 'Sabyya Al Gharifa' Habta stands out as one of the most prominent seasonal traditional markets, continuing to maintain its social and economic significance despite major transformations in modern shopping patterns across Oman.
The term 'Sabyya' locally refers to the 'seventh,' indicating a traditional Habta held as part of the seasonal sequence of Eid markets across villages.
This market is held in an open-air setting under natural surroundings, where commercial activity blends seamlessly with cultural and heritage dimensions, far removed from the structured environment of modern retail spaces.

'Sabyya Al Gharifa' serves as a key meeting point for buyers and sellers from various villages, with different areas taking turns hosting the market during a season that typically spans several days. This allows visitors the opportunity to move between multiple Habtas.
Market activity begins at dawn, as sellers arrive early to secure their places. Peak activity is witnessed during the morning hours before gradually slowing towards midday, although on some days the market continues into the afternoon depending on demand.
In this context, Mohammad bin Rashid al Afari, one of the sellers at Sabyya Al Gharifa, said, “I have been participating for many years in traditional Eid events such as Sabyya Al Gharifa and Sabyya Al Maladah. I began around 20 to 25 years ago. At that time, the Habta was very simple, with limited attendance. People came individually or in small groups, and transportation methods were basic, often using donkeys and traditional means.”

Al Afari added, reflecting on the market’s development,
“In the past, events were not as vibrant as they are today. Purchases were made in small quantities using traditional scales and old units of measurement. Today, however, the Habtas have become more organised, whether in terms of tents, variety of goods, or number of visitors. Modern tools such as electronic scales are now used, and turnout has increased significantly, especially among children who come excited to choose toys and other necessities.”
He further noted, “Even some traditional products such as ‘Al Ayood’ are still available today. It is a traditional recipe passed down through generations, made from water and sugar, with additional ingredients such as beans or coconut, along with food colouring. It is prepared according to demand. With changing conditions and rising prices, we now sell by the kilogramme instead of sacks, as both pricing methods and market dynamics have evolved.”

On another note, Nooh al Qanubi, another seller at the Habta, shared his personal experience with this traditional market, saying,
“My early beginnings were in Sabyya Al Gharifa, where I used to accompany my mother since childhood. My first experience in the market was when I was around eight or nine years old. For me, this market is not just a place for selling, but a part of childhood memories and beginnings.”
Al Qanubi added, “The nature of the market has changed significantly over the past years compared to about 15 years ago. Earlier, it mainly focused on traditional handmade products, whether food items or occasion-related supplies. Children’s toys were simple and limited, whereas today they represent a large portion of the goods on display, with a wide variety of products.”

He continued, “In the past, Eid necessities were purchased directly from the market, including barbecue tools, sticks, ropes and other traditional supplies. Today, consumption patterns have changed significantly, and the market has become more diverse, with modern products appearing alongside traditional goods. However, the Habta still retains its heritage spirit and unique identity.”
The Sabyya Al Gharifa Habta in the Wilayat of Al Suwaiq remains a living example of Oman’s traditional markets, combining economic, social, and cultural dimensions, and reflecting the enduring connection between society and heritage despite the evolution of modern lifestyles.