Summer festivals and events continue

MUSCAT: It might be towards the tail end of summer holidays, but activities for families and children continue in full strength.
'Omani Samt', the summer forum for children, will begin on Sunday, August 16. Organised by the National Museum — represented by the Bait Al Greiza Department — the initiative aims to instil a sense of dignity and decorum in young children, serving as an enriching platform that fosters authentic Omani values ​​and etiquette.
According to the officials from the museum, the forum’s activities will take place in two stages: the first, running from August 16 to 20, 2026, targets children aged 5 to 7, while the second, scheduled for August 23 to 26, 2026, is designed for the 8-12 age group.
Between June 21 and July 31, 2026, 154,529 passengers arrived at Salalah Airport. But many visitors to Salalah prefer to drive across, covering the distance in 10 hours. Around this time of year, travel companies have been organising bus trips with hotel stays and site visits for the convenience of first-timers to the Khareef destination.
While Salalah continues to be the top summer destination with the Khareef season, Al Jabal Al Akhdhar Tourism Festival has been receiving a steady flow of tourists. The festival, which began on July 15, will conclude on August 29, 2026, and operates daily from 4:00 pm to 12:00 am. This 45-day summer event has been featuring family entertainment, 3D hologram displays, local food bazaars, and agricultural forums, drawing over 100,000 visitors to take a break from the summer heat.
The fourth edition of the Ajwaa Al Ashkharah Festival (Al Ashkharah Tourism Forum), which began on July 22, will conclude this weekend on August 15, 2026. Held at the Al Ashkharah Municipal Park in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, it celebrates the coastal town's cool summer weather, local heritage, and family entertainment.
Catering to people returning from the Khareef holidays, Mark and Save in Suhar has arranged the Arabian Souq. This special market experience brings together traditional products, food, entertainment and family activities under one roof.
The Arabian Souq will be held from August 12 to 23, 2026, featuring a variety of traditional products, food options and activities for families and children.
The souq will feature a selection of traditional products, including oud, incense and perfumes; traditional caps; sweets; and other speciality items. About 50 artisans and home businesses are participating. One of the biggest highlights is the Omani traditional food, according to the organisers.
The event will also feature a range of entertainment and activities, including Omani folk dance, food trucks, henna, face painting, etc.