MUSCAT: The drone show over Al Qurum Natural Park has become one of the most striking visual highlights of the Muscat Nights 2026, offering a sequence of aerial tableaux unified by a narrative reflecting the identity, values, and transformation of Muscat Governorate.
Combining advanced technology with artistic symbolism, the performances attracted large crowds of visitors of different ages and nationalities.
Presented within a cohesive storytelling framework, the show relied on a seamless progression of aerial scenes synchronised with sound effects and music, creating an immersive viewing experience. Through a contemporary visual language, the performances portrayed Muscat’s landmarks and achievements in a way that resonated with the cultural diversity of visitors and appealed to all segments of society.
The aerial formations narrated key chapters of Oman’s history, beginning with its ancient past when it was known as “Majan” and “Mazoon,” moving through the advent of Islam and long- standing trade relations, and culminating in the stages of building the modern state. The show highlighted the achievements of the Renaissance era under the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the transition of leadership to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, and concluded with a forward- looking vision for the future of the Sultanate of Oman.
Jaber bin Amir al Mahrazi, Project Director, explained that the drone show was designed as an integrated visual storytelling experience, delivered through harmonious aerial scenes supported by sound and musical effects. He noted that this approach enables national and humanitarian messages to be communicated in an elegant and accessible visual style, blending advanced technology with meaningful content.
The show is structured around five main themes forming the overall framework of the visual experience. The first, “Muscat: History and Identity,” highlights the city’s origins and symbolic landmarks, emphasising Omani identity and national belonging. The second theme, “Muscat Today and Its Achievements,” showcases urban organisation, infrastructure, and advanced municipal services, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance quality of life. The third theme, “People at the Heart of the City,” focuses on the Omani citizen as the cornerstone of development. The fourth, “Values and Community Spirit,” presents religious occasions and spiritual values as an integral part of Omani society. The show concludes with “Muscat of Tomorrow and the Future Vision,” highlighting sustainability, environmental stewardship, technology, and future projects aligned with Oman Vision 2040.
The execution of the show relies on an advanced operational system managed through a ground control station equipped with modern communication devices and high-precision positioning systems. The drones follow carefully calculated flight paths, with simulations conducted in advance to ensure safety and accuracy.
The performances are operated entirely by a 100 per cent Omani crew from Afaaq Oman, reflecting the capability of national competencies to deliver advanced technical shows according to the highest safety standards.
The drone show is presented daily through two main performances using a total of 1,500 drones.
The first show lasts 16 to 17 minutes and includes around 300 drones dedicated to fireworks effects, while the second runs for 7 to 8 minutes using approximately 200 drones.
The displays extend over the lake at the centre of Al Qurum Natural Park, harmonising with lighting effects, dancing fountains, and water features, symbolically depicting the human, sea, and land elements. Several visitors praised the drone show for adding a distinctive aesthetic and technological dimension to Muscat Nights. Marwan al Saadi described it as extremely beautiful and well organised, while Ahmed al Jawad, visiting the event for the first time since 2008, noted the remarkable transformation of the activities and described the drone show as leaving a strong positive impression.
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