Eid Al Fitr preparations under way with shopping

Muscat, March 25

As Eid Al Fitr approaches, markets and shops are filled with families looking for Eid essentials, from new clothes to the finest Omani sweets.

Said al Maamari, owner of a traditional shop in Nizwa Souq, said, "The markets turn into a popular festival before Eid, as people rush to buy traditional clothes, such as the Omani dishdasha, in addition to gifts for children."

At home, women gather to prepare delicious traditional dishes as well as Omani sweets, a symbol of Omani hospitality. Children are the luckiest during Eid, receiving gifts from their families and relatives and proudly wearing their new clothes. In some areas, special activities are organised for children, such as traditional games and horse and camel races, which add a special flavour to the Eid.

Salem al Maharbi, a father of three from Muscat, said, "Eid is the joy of my children. I make sure they feel the beauty of this day through gifts, going to parks and visiting relatives."

Eid in Oman is not complete without charitable works and social solidarity. Many people visit the needy and offer them gifts and food. Charitable organisations also organise programmes to support needy families, distributing food and clothing to those in need.

Suad al Balushi, a volunteer at a charitable organisation, explained, "Eid is not just about family joy; it is an occasion to spread love and giving. We make sure everyone feels the warmth of Eid, especially those in need of support."

In Oman, Eid Al Fitr remains an occasion that blends the spirituality of faith with the joy of family gatherings and social interaction and hence requires good preparation. It is a time when ancient customs are renewed and the bonds between members of society are strengthened, in a wonderful humanitarian picture that reflects authentic Omani values.

The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) has intensified its market monitoring and inspection campaigns on shops and shopping centres in line with the increasing demand during preparation for Eid Al Fitr. These campaigns focus on monitoring shops and shopping malls, controlling prices, and ensuring that prices are posted and inspected on goods and services to avoid manipulation.

And with the increasing reliance on e-commerce, CPA also monitors online accounts through a specialised team in the e-commerce department, where business behaviour and practices are monitored and any violations are identified. It also cooperates with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion to address reports and complaints related to e-commerce sales.

CPA advised consumers to only deal with websites and online accounts licensed by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, and to ensure the reliability of offers and products before purchasing.