National Day holiday: People in Oman enjoy, unwind

Muscat: Omanis found the National Day holidays a perfect time to experience some stunning activities and see places around the country. They got an excellent opportunity to get out and about for a short break. The 52nd National Day holiday began on Wednesday, November 30 and lasted for four days till Saturday, December 3.

Speaking to Times of Oman, Mohammed Al-Hashemi from the Governorate of Muscat said: “I went with my family to Wadi Hibi and the adjoining mountains in the state of Sohar for the holidays. The landscape with greenery all along the mountains, flowing valleys, particularly Ain Sahban was mesmerising. We enjoyed the pleasant atmosphere and had some very enjoyable moments there.”

“I wish the authorities concerned provide mobile cafes, toilets, shower places and hotels in that area. Wadi Habibi is one of the most beautiful places in the Wilayat of Sohar, far away from noise of cars and traffic congestion. The air is fresh and clean and you only hear the chirping of birds, the sound of water and the breeze past you. This area should be developed to attract tourists from inside and outside Oman,” he said.

Noura Al-Badi from the Wilayat of Saham in North Al-Batinah Governorate also spoke about her vacation during the National Day holiday. “I went with my family to the United Arab Emirates, particularly Dubai. I was wonderstruck by the tall buildings, advanced infrastructure and impressive urban designs. There is a water park, Dubai safari and the global village, restaurants of all kinds with different foods and dishes.”

Noura continues: “What caught my attention were the entertainment activities and they are all fun. Just three days in Dubai and it was easily one of the best days of my vacation. I had been there for the first time. How I wished to see a water park in the Sultanate of Oman or a safari or a global village. I hope the competent authorities provide such activities to revive tourism in Oman too.”

Ahmed Al Balushi from the Wilayat of Ibri in Al Dhahirah Governorate said: “I went with my family to Al Jabal Al Akhdhar. The landscape is splendid, the smell of the fruits of the Green Mountains and the fresh air is refreshing. We really enjoyed the vacation. I wish affordable hotels are provided with more activities such as cable cars and the Al Jabal Al Akhdhar festival to attract tourists in Oman.”