What to do in Muscat

If your child has been asking to use WhatsApp, a new feature coming in the next few months may ease the concerns about the safety of the app. WhatsApp introduces parent-managed accounts for kids under 13. The feature lets younger users stay in touch with family and friends while parents keep control over the account’s privacy and communication settings. How Parent-managed WhatsApp Accounts Work With this feature, a parent or guardian can create and supervise the account for a kids under 13. Only adults aged 18 or older can manage the setup. Here's what parents can manage: decide who is...

Looking to take a trip from Abu Dhabi to Muscat without the hassle of driving? Here's some great news for you! A new bus route 202 is now making it easier than ever to travel between these two cities. The price is not only budget-friendly (OMR 11.5 or around AED 110 for single trip) but also comes with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Plus, you can bring along 7kg of hand luggage. The bus leaves Abu Dhabi Bus Station at 11:45 AM and takes the scenic route with multiple stops along the way: Al Ain Central Bus Station Buraimi Bus Station...

Oman has declared a public holiday for both public and private sector employees in celebration of Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) birthday. The holiday will fall on Sunday, September 7, 2025, as the Prophet’s birthday itself, on September 5, coincides with Friday, which is already a weekend in Oman. Since the official workweek in Oman runs from Sunday to Thursday, this timing gives workers a well-deserved 3-day weekend to enjoy the occasion. With the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) birthday falling on the 12th day of Rabi’ Al Awwal, this holiday will be a time for reflection and celebration across the region, marking an...

During Ramadan 2026, Oman will implement reduced working hours across both the public and private sectors. This decision aims to make it easier for workers to balance their professional and personal lives during the holy month. Here are the changes: Employees in public sector will work 5 consecutive hours a day, from 9 AM to 2 PM. Some flexibility allows work to start as early as 7 AM and finish by 3 PM, depending on workplace policies. Muslim employees in private sector will have a maximum of 6 working hours a day, capped at 30 hours per week. It's possible...

Oman will launch its new golden visa programme for investors on August 31, as part of broader efforts to strengthen the Sultanate’s position as a global investment hub. This initiative also supports the country's goal of accelerating its digital transition in commerce. The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion will introduce the golden visa alongside the “Al Majida Companies” initiative, which supports high-performing Omani firms. Additionally, a new service will allow the electronic transfer of commercial registrations via the Oman Business platform. Foreigners can apply for the programme via the ‘Invest Oman’ online platform. There are two options to...

Oman is taking a big step toward modernizing its payment systems with the introduction of a national payment card. Set to be issued by local banks under the oversight of the Central Bank, this new initiative is designed to offer a more secure, smooth, and convenient way for people to make payments both online and in stores. This move is a major part of Oman’s push to develop its digital payment landscape and reduce reliance on foreign payment providers. The new card will allow users to make transactions within a unified national system, making payments easier and safer for everyone,...

If you’re living in Oman and planning to go on the Hajj next year, here’s what you need to know. The Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs opens online registration for the 2026 season on September 23. The ministry has stressed that registration alone doesn’t guarantee a place. Pilgrims will be selected automatically based on Oman’s quota from Saudi authorities, and successful applicants will be notified by text message. Residents can sign up through the official portal www.hajj.om. Here are the key details for applicants: Deadline: October 8, 2025 Eligibility: Citizens and residents of Oman 18+ Required info: Civil number,...

Lebanon Independence Day, celebrated every year on November 22, holds great historical and cultural significance for Lebanese people both at home and abroad. It’s a day to reflect on the country’s journey to freedom, to appreciate the resilience of its people, and to celebrate the rich cultural identity. The History and Significance of Lebanon Independence Day The path to Lebanon’s independence was long and marked by struggle. Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire after World War I, Lebanon came under French mandate. On November 22, 1943, Lebanon's leaders took a decisive step to reclaim sovereignty by abolishing the foreign...

Looking forward to a peaceful break with your loved ones? Oman has confirmed the official dates for the Eid Al Fitr 2026 holiday, offering a 5-day weekend for both public and private sector employees. The break will last from March 19 to 23, allowing everyone to enjoy the full spirit of the holiday. Work will resume on March 24. Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. Families come together for morning prayers and festive meals, celebrating the completion of the fasting period. It's a meaningful opportunity to connect with others and share the joy of the occasion. Several other...

If you're thinking about buying a drone in Oman, here's something you definitely need to know! The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has introduced new rules that are going to change the way drones are sold and registered. If you're planning to buy a drone in Oman, here are the steps you need to follow: Buy from licensed shops: only authorized sellers can sell drones Every drone must be registered on AirPortal Complete the transfer process through the Serb app before taking the drone home It’s important that both the seller and the buyer are following the rules. If you try...