Muscat – Public spaces across Muscat governorate take on a special character during Ramadan, as parks and walkways transform into lively gathering places for families and residents seeking time outdoors after a day of fasting.

With cooler evening temperatures, many people head to these areas after iftar or Taraweeh prayers. Children gather in play areas while others walk or exercise along designated tracks. Beyond enhancing the city’s green landscape, these facilities provide families an opportunity to spend time together away from daily routines.

They also support healthier lifestyles by offering suitable environments for walking and outdoor activity during the holy month.

Walkways across Muscat witness a noticeable rise in visitors during Ramadan, reflecting broader urban planning efforts to improve quality of life.

One prominent example is the Green Walk in Mabelah, a modern development covering more than 152,000sqm. The project includes a sports walkway, cycling track, pedestrian bridges, children’s play areas, outdoor fitness equipment, multi-use sports courts and a skateboarding zone. Green spaces, modern lighting, cafés, restaurants and areas for food trucks make it a popular destination for families.

Another project is the Golden Jubilee Walkway in Seeb, which spans about 84,400sqm and connects Mawaleh, Al Hail and Al Khoud along Mazoon Street. The walkway features a cycling track, shaded rest areas, cafés, green spaces and play areas for children.

The walkway in the Ministries District in Al Khuwair combines modern urban design with elements of Omani identity. The site includes landscaped areas, walking and cycling tracks, seating arrangements and a café run by Omani entrepreneurs. A 126m flagpole carrying the national flag stands at the centre of the square.

Residents say these spaces have become part of their Ramadan routine. Ghadir Al Umairi described her visits to walking tracks such as Al Hail Beach, Mawaleh Walkway and Sur Al Hadid Walkway as outings she looks forward to.

She prefers visiting after Taraweeh prayers when the weather is cooler and the atmosphere calmer. She suggested adding Ramadan-themed decorations and introducing community challenges such as ‘10,000 Steps in Ramadan’ to encourage healthy living.

Moza Ash’Shabibi said the calm atmosphere, lighting and presence of families create a distinct Ramadan ambience, though she believes additional seating, public restrooms and parking would improve the experience.

Majid Al Naabi said he favours the parks in South Mabelah for their wide spaces suitable for family gatherings, while Jaifer Al Balushi prefers to walk or run before the Maghrib prayers. “Expanding dedicated running and cycling tracks, planting more trees and introducing smart solutions such as shading systems, cooling mist sprays and improved lighting will further attract more enthusiasts outdoors,” Al Balushi said.

Authorities are continuing efforts to expand green spaces. Work is under way on seven residential parks across Muscat governorate, including projects in South Mabelah, Wadi Kabir, Al Amerat, Ar Rawiyah, Al Khairan village and Mahya Park in Quriyat.

The parks will include children’s play areas, sports courts, shaded seating and public services as part of efforts to enhance community spaces across the governorate.