Muscat – Eid Al Adha habtas, the traditional seasonal markets held ahead of the holiday, have begun across Oman, reviving a longstanding custom that blends commerce, culture and community life.

From Muscat and North Batinah to North Sharqiyah, the markets are attracting residents and visitors seeking livestock, sweets, toys, traditional products and other Eid essentials. The annual gatherings also serve as social spaces where families and children take part in festivities linked to one of Oman’s most enduring traditions.

In Muscat, Muscat Municipality has launched the Eid Al Adha habta festival under the theme, ‘A heritage built by our ancestors… a joy cherished by future generations’.

The festival, being held from May 24 to 30 in the open area behind Muscat Municipality Directorate in Seeb, aims to preserve the traditional Omani habta, a practice closely associated with Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha celebrations.

The venue includes stalls selling gifts, festive items, toys and traditional products, alongside Omani food and beverages. Entrepreneurs, artisan families and small businesses are also showcasing their products during the Eid season.

Muscat Municipality stated that the initiative seeks to provide a family-oriented environment combining shopping, entertainment and cultural activities, while reinforcing Omani customs and traditions. Folk performances and heritage-inspired activities are also part of the programme.

In North Batinah, municipality authorities have designated several locations for Eid habtas across the governorate’s wilayats as part of preparations for the holiday.

According to North Batinah Municipality, the markets are being held in Suhar, Shinas, Liwa, Saham, Khabourah and Suwaiq, offering livestock and Eid-related products to residents ahead of the celebrations.

In Suhar, the market is operating next to the municipal slaughterhouse from May 23 to 26, while Liwa’s market is being held beside the fish, fruit and vegetable market from May 24 to 26.

Shinas is hosting its habta at Souq Al Jumaa from May 24 to 27, while Saham Central Market is operating from May 24 to 25. In Khabourah, the market is taking place in Al Sarhat area from May 24 to 26.

In Suwaiq, authorities have allocated several locations, including an area near Nesto Hypermarket from May 24 to 25.

North Batinah Municipality stated that the markets continue to play an important social and economic role during Eid Al Adha. The municipality also called on vendors and visitors to follow organisational and public safety guidelines to ensure smooth movement and maintain cleanliness at market sites.

In North Sharqiyah, Al Yahmadi village in Ibra witnessed strong turnout at its habta that started on Saturday, with children and adults gathering in large numbers in a scene reflecting the communal nature of Eid traditions in Oman.

Mudhaibi also marked the return of the traditional Tahloola celebration on Saturday, drawing families and children to old neighbourhoods and Misila Market.

Tahloola is a traditional pre-Eid ceremony in which children move through villages in organised groups, chanting religious hymns and carrying lanterns, preserving a custom that continues to be passed down through generations in Oman.