MUSCAT: As the holy month of Ramadhan began in the Sultanate of Oman on Thursday, a familiar rhythm returns to towns and neighbourhoods across the country. After Iftar and Taraweeh prayers, open grounds, sandy courts and school yards light up with energy as communities gather for one of the most Ramadhan traditions by practicing late-night sport.
While football remains the country’s most popular game, volleyball takes centre stage during Ramadhan, emerging as one of the most widely played and socially embraced sporting activities. Alongside volleyball, football matches, running sessions in parks and even chess tournaments contribute to a vibrant sporting culture that defines the month.
From Muscat to the interior wilayats, make-shift courts are set up and floodlights switched on as players of all ages compete in friendly yet spirited matches that often continue until midnight. What began decades ago as informal recreation has steadily evolved into a structured and competitive seasonal phenomenon.
ORGANISED TOURNAMENTS
In earlier years, volleyball during Ramadhan was primarily a recreational activity as a way for everyone to stay active and strengthen social bonds after fasting hours. Today, however, the scene has grown increasingly professional. Amateur teams across various governorates now organise well-structured tournaments complete with sponsorship support, official match schedules, referees and attractive prizes for winners. These competitions attract strong participation not only from local players but also from neighbouring wilayats, adding a competitive and thrilling edge to the events.
Ali bin Suleiman al Balushi, a veteran of Omani volleyball with more than 33 years of experience as a player, coach and former official at the Oman Volleyball Association (OVA), witnessed this transformation first-hand.
“In the 1980s, volleyball and football were widely played in schools such as Al Saidia School in Muscat and across many governorates including Al Dakhiliyah and others,” he recalled. “Volleyball was the second most popular sport in Oman after football.”
According to Al Balushi, the simplicity of volleyball is one of the key reasons for its enduring popularity, particularly during Ramadhan. “Volleyball is very easy to set up. You only need a 9-by-9 metre space, a net and two strong poles to fix it. Within a short time, you have a proper outdoor court,” he explained. “Compared to other sports like football, which requires a larger grass field, or handball, which needs a flat surface with specific dimensions, volleyball is much more accessible.”
This ease of organisation has made volleyball especially popular in interior regions, where communities can quickly prepare playing areas in open spaces. The game’s straightforward rules and fast-paced format also make it appealing to players of all skill levels. “The system of play is simple and exciting,” Al Balushi added. “That encourages people to take part and creates strong competitive spirit during Ramadhan nights.”
GRASSROOTS GROWTH
The growth of organised tournaments has been particularly evident in wilayats such as Sur (by Ghazi Ramadhan which is Ramadhan Sporting Festival), Barka ( where Al Rumais hosts one of the most recognised Ramadhan volleyball competitions in the country.), Qurayat, Duqm and other wilayats. Teams travel from different governorates to participate, reflecting the sport’s expanding reach and appeal.
“Volleyball is not played just for fun only,” Al Balushi said. “There are now structured tournaments across wilayats, and this is a positive sign for the sport’s future. It shows that volleyball can continue to grow at the grassroots level.”
These tournaments not only enhance competition but also strengthen community bonds, drawing families and spectators who gather to support local teams. The festive atmosphere, combined with sporting passion, turns Ramadhan nights into social occasions that blend faith, fitness and fellowship.
BEYOND VOLLEYBALL
Although volleyball dominates many neighbourhood courts, other sporting activities remain popular throughout the month. Football matches continue to attract large participation, while running groups take advantage of cooler night temperatures in parks and designated tracks. Chess competitions also draw enthusiasts seeking mental challenge during the holy month. Together, these activities highlight the deep-rooted culture of sport in Omani society as a culture that thrives even during periods of fasting and spiritual reflection.
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