Muscat: A vibrant atmosphere and strong public turnout continue to define Ajwa’a Al Ashkharah 2025, the summer festival currently taking place at Al Ashkharah Public Park. With a wide variety of cultural, heritage and entertainment activities, the festival has drawn visitors from across the Sultanate of Oman and neighbouring GCC countries, reaffirming Al Ashkharah’s growing status as a leading summer destination in Oman.
Organised under the supervision of the Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, the three-week festival reflects the governorate’s strategic efforts to stimulate domestic tourism, preserve cultural identity and offer an interactive platform that blends heritage with leisure in a contemporary format.
A highlight of the event is the Heritage Village (Abq Al Turath), which features live traditional Omani performances by Al-Masha’el Folk Arts Group. Children’s competitions and engaging games added a lively, family-oriented atmosphere, strengthening social bonds and encouraging interaction between visitors and performers.
Evenings at the festival are equally captivating, with live cartoon characters and mascots roaming the park, spreading joy among younger visitors. A special cultural showcase by Jaalan Bani Bu Ali highlighted the region’s unique heritage through an interactive performance that was well-received by audiences.
Many festivalgoers expressed appreciation for the festival’s diverse offerings and well-organised activities.
Ahmed bin Said al Rashdi, visiting from Bahla, said: “We visit Al Ashkharah every summer, but this year’s experience has been truly exceptional. The range of events and the level of organisation are impressive. The festival beautifully celebrates our heritage in a fresh, modern way”.
Fatma bint Khalid al Balushi, a mother of three from Sur, commented: “My children loved the cartoon shows and the competitions. What I appreciated most was that the festival had something for everyone — it felt like a complete, well-thought-out family event”. According to organisers, the festival welcomed 33,510 visitors over just two days — Thursday and Friday (July 17–18) — a clear indicator of the rising popularity of Al Ashkharah as a summer hotspot. The event continues to attract diverse audiences with its evolving schedule and inclusive programming.
Salim bin Ali al Sunaidy, from Ibra, shared: “The festival’s strength lies in its ability to combine tradition and innovation. You get a real sense of our cultural roots, but everything is presented in a way that’s modern, accessible and enjoyable for all”. In a tribute to Oman’s coastal heritage, the festival will host the “Washa’at Al Ghal” sardine net-weaving competition on Sunday and Monday, featuring skilled local artisans. The competition, held in the Heritage Village, aims to revive and spotlight the craftsmanship of traditional fishing practices.
Saeed bin Nasser al Mahrouqi, from Barka, remarked: “I never imagined net weaving could be so intricate. Watching the artisans up close was educational and inspiring — it’s a part of our culture we shouldn’t lose”.
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