This day celebrates independence from Portugal control in 1650. This holiday is the start of a two day break, as 19th November is also a public holiday to mark the birthday of the Sultan of Oman, Qaboos bin Said al Said. According to royal decree, the actual dates of the holidays may be changed to suite the public interest. The Portuguese arrived in the country in 1507, but unhappy with how they felt the Portuguese were exploiting their presence in the country, the powerful A1-Ya’ribi clan agreed to a treaty with the British East India Company to allow the British to have rights in their ports. This weakened Portuguese control, and on 18th November 1650, Imam Sultan Bin Saif led a rebellion that expelled the Portuguese from the country.
Events for the day include parades, fireworks, camel races, an equestrian show, a marine festival, and once every five years, a military show.
Holidays & Special Events 