Saturday 25 / July / 2026
Muscat: Oman has launched the first edition of the national Purple Saturday initiative under the slogan "One Day, A Lasting Impact.", a nationwide campaign aimed at promoting accessibility, inclusion and social participation for persons with disabilities through a more welcoming shopping experience.
Led by the Ministry of Social Development in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the initiative encourages commercial establishments across the Sultanate to offer exclusive promotions and discounts for persons with disabilities from July 23 to August 1, 2026.
The campaign goes beyond retail offers, highlighting the importance of creating accessible and inclusive environments. Organisers stressed that accessibility is not limited to providing ramps or designated parking spaces, but also includes ensuring that facilities, entrances, customer service and communication are designed to welcome everyone.
As part of the awareness campaign, the Ministry of Social Development noted that every individual experiences public spaces differently, and that simple measures—such as accessible entrances, suitable facilities and staff trained to communicate effectively with persons with disabilities—can make a significant difference in fostering inclusion.
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion said the initiative transforms shopping promotions into a message of support, encouraging businesses to make their services more inclusive while improving the shopping experience for persons with disabilities.
The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) is also participating in the initiative. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusion by developing transport, communications and digital services that are accessible to persons with disabilities, ensuring they can fully benefit from public services and technological advancements.
The Purple Saturday initiative reflects Oman's continued efforts to strengthen the inclusion of persons with disabilities in community life by encouraging collaboration between government institutions and the private sector to create accessible, welcoming and equitable environments for all.
