Muscat – The North Sharqiyah Winter Festival, a collaboration between the public and private sectors, was inaugurated on Saturday in the wilayat of Bidiyah.

 The cultural event running till February 10 was opened by H E Dr Mahad bin Said bin Ali Ba’owain, Minister of Labour.

Mahmoud bin Yahya al Thuhli, Governor of North Sharqiyah, highlighted the festival’s objectives, saying, “It is designed to showcase the region’s tourist attractions, foster a family-oriented environment for the winter season, and bolster small and medium-sized businesses and local families through their involvement in various activities at the Bidiyah Public Park.”

The festival’s agenda features diverse events, including the first Oman Desert Tourism Forum, the Oman Desert Marathon, and the Triple Challenge Championship in Wadi Bani Khalid. Additionally, Bidiyah Public Park will host activities at a heritage village.

A notable component of the festival is the first International Film and Desert Festival. Other events include activities at the Astronomical Dome, a coffee making competition, an inter-regional cricket tournament, and a consumer exhibition showcasing products of SMEs.

The festival promises excitement with competitions such as sand football, drone racing, a bicycle race and a bike show in Dima Wa al Taien. Targeting all family members, the festival will have theatre activities, electric games and various entertainment options for children.