Oman’s government has announced its official 2026 public holiday calendar and a series of new rules and policy changes that will affect residents, businesses and government services across the Sultanate next year. The announcements come as part of ongoing reforms under the Oman Vision 2040 strategy, aiming to improve planning, efficiency and social welfare.
The Ministry of Labour and Social Development said Oman will, for the first time, publish the dates of most public holidays at the start of each Gregorian year. This change is intended to give businesses, ministries, schools and citizens greater clarity for annual planning. The calendar includes both national occasions and major Islamic observances.
Among the official public holidays announced in advance are Accession Day on Thursday, January 15, 2026, and Al Isra’a Wal Mi’raj on Sunday, January 18, creating a potential long four-day weekend when combined with Friday and Saturday.
The government also confirmed the dates for other key public holidays including Oman National Day, scheduled for November 25–26, 2026, which marks the country’s independence and unity celebrations. Islamic holidays such as Hijri New Year, Prophet’s Birthday (Mawlid al-Nabawi), Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha will continue to be announced separately based on official moon sightings.
In addition to the holiday schedule, Oman has introduced new policy reforms effective from January 1, 2026, which encompass changes in several sectors. The reforms, part of broader regulatory updates, are expected to improve how services are delivered and how laws are applied to both individuals and companies throughout the country.
One notable policy change now in effect requires premarital medical examinations for all couples, a health initiative aimed at promoting preventive care and informed family planning. The Ministry of Health said this will help identify hereditary and infectious conditions early, reflecting a broader focus on public health priorities.
Authorities have also highlighted that employees required to work on public holidays will remain protected under Oman’s labour regulations, ensuring appropriate compensation and entitlements. Officials said the advance holiday schedule announcement benefits both employers and employees by helping them organise annual leave, staffing and operational planning more effectively.
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