As Eid Al Adha approaches, Omani homes begin to revive cherished traditions that generations have preserved year after year — from the aroma of Omani coffee and halwa to the warmth of family gatherings, greetings and visits to relatives.
Despite the fast-changing pace of modern life, these familiar scenes continue to embody the enduring spirit of Eid.
Across Oman, Eid traditions remain deeply woven into everyday life, not merely as seasonal customs but as an essential part of Oman’s social and cultural identity. They continue to connect generations while reinforcing the values of solidarity, kinship and togetherness within society.
Abdullah al Battashi, who has experienced Eid celebrations across generations, believes the occasion in earlier times was simpler yet richer in human connection and community spirit.
He recalls how the joy of Eid was shaped by uninterrupted gatherings of relatives and neighbours, with visits extending from morning until evening, free from the distractions of modern technology and mobile phones.
Among the customs he continues to uphold are Eid prayers, family visits, welcoming guests with Omani coffee and halwa, and the slaughtering and distribution of sacrificial meat to relatives and those in need.
According to him, these traditions embody values of generosity, compassion and social solidarity deeply rooted in Omani society.
Al Battashi also fondly remembers the vibrant atmosphere of the traditional ‘Al Habta’ markets, where crowds gathered in the days leading up to Eid to prepare for the celebrations.
He notes that family homes remained open throughout the day, reflecting the simplicity of life and the strength of social bonds during that era.
For younger generations, Eid is experienced somewhat differently, though its essence remains intact.
Adnan al Farsi, representing the perspective of today’s youth, says Eid celebrations now blend longstanding traditions with digital life, as social media has become part of the festivities through shared photographs and virtual greetings among relatives and friends.
Despite these changes, Al Farsi emphasises that family gatherings, Eid prayers and visits continue to hold a meaningful place among young people.
While technology has helped maintain connections, especially among relatives living far apart, he observes that it can sometimes shift attention towards documenting moments rather than fully experiencing them.
Meanwhile, Amal al Abri believes Eid has retained its authentic Omani character despite modern influences. She notes that customs and traditions continue to strengthen social bonds and reinforce a sense of belonging among members of society.
She adds that traditional arts and festive celebrations remain visible across Oman’s governorates during Eid, reflecting Oman’s rich cultural heritage and diversity while preserving the distinctive social spirit of the occasion for future generations.
BEAUTY TAKES CENTRE STAGE
In the days leading up to Eid Al Adha, beauty salons, skincare centres and barbershops across the Sultanate of Oman begin to transform into some of the busiest spaces in the country, as many people prepare for the festive occasion through grooming, skincare and self-care routines that have increasingly become part of modern Eid preparations.
From deep facial cleansing sessions and skincare treatments to haircuts and beauty appointments, the pre-Eid rush reflects not only the desire to look good for the celebration, but also a growing awareness surrounding hygiene, wellness and personal care.
At the same time, municipalities across Oman have intensified awareness campaigns and inspection visits to ensure health and safety standards are maintained during one of the busiest periods for beauty salons and barbershops. In social media posts, Muscat Municipality called on visitors of women’s beauty salons and barbershops to follow health guidelines, stressing the importance of sterilising tools, maintaining cleanliness and avoiding the sharing of personal items in order to ensure safer and higher-quality services ahead of Eid.
Meanwhile, Al Sharqiyah North Municipality conducted awareness and inspection visits to beauty salons and barbershops in the Wilayat of Al Qabil to ensure compliance with health regulations and enhance public safety ahead of the holiday season.
For many beauty businesses, skincare has become one of the defining trends this Eid season, particularly with Muscat’s summer heat affecting skin health and appearance.
Asila al Harthy, founder of Waw Beauty Lounge in Al Khuwair, noted that skincare remains one of the strongest beauty priorities this season, especially with Muscat’s hot weather. “The latest trend related to skincare is that most clients ask for a glowy and bright skin that looks fresh,” she said, explaining that heat, dryness and constant sun exposure often leave the skin looking tired or uneven.
According to Al Harthy, many clients are increasingly requesting treatments that focus on healthier-looking skin, including deep facial cleansing, acne and oily skin facials, as well as services designed to restore brightness and hydration before Eid celebrations begin.
As salons continue to welcome large numbers of visitors ahead of Eid Al Adha, the season highlights a growing balance between beauty, self-care and health awareness, reflecting how festive preparations in Oman continue to evolve while remaining closely tied to the social spirit of the occasion.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
