The Sultanate of Oman celebrated the first day of Eid Al Fitr on Saturday with fun, frolic and gatherings at mosques as well as public places which were seen on Sunday also, completely free from last year's pandemic precautions.
Various Eidgah and mass prayer centres witnessed huge number of worshippers of various streams praying together and embracing each other wishing 'Happy Eid.'
"This is the first Eid free from Covid fear in the past three years, and thanks to the Almighty for saving us from the pandemic. We had the same feel of Eid before Covid," said Mohammed Khalil, a resident of Muscat.
Domestic tourism spots witness heavy rush after Eid prayers on Saturday. People started flocking to parks, beaches and other entertainment avenues in groups, while children tried their hands on rides and games, as adults got busy sharing Eid delicacies with each other.
"We explored Wadi Bani Khalid in Al Sharqiyah, and it is really a great place for its large pools of emerald green water surrounded by tall palm trees," Abdullah al Habsi, a senior manager with a company, who was seen with his family at the wadi, told the Observer.
Wadi Bani Khalid is one of the few wadis in Oman which have a constant flow of water throughout the year and the rocky canyon and cliffs of Al Hajar Mountains make it breathtakingly beautiful, and is a major pulling factor for tourists from both Oman and abroad.
Wadi Bani Khalid is known as 'Desert Paradise' for its 356-days' liveliness and is considered a favourite among hikers and for those who seek a picnic spot to spend a day or two.
People opted for staycation like never before and many were seen at Al Jabal Al Akhdhar, Jabal Shams, and to the balmy Salalah where a wholesome package of all under one roof were on offer.
"Our location and services have attracted many holidaymakers to our property as it is situated amidst stunning mountains and pristine beaches along the Arabian Sea," a note from the Anantara's Al Baleed Resort in Salalah, said.
While the resort's exterior design pays tribute to Omani fortresses, highlighting the country's cultural treasures, guests were able to indulge in the luxurious comfort of Anantara while enjoying the peaceful tranquillity of Salalah's natural beauty.
"Additionally, guests can relish in a masterfully prepared Eid buffet at Sakalan, featuring an array of Arabic cuisines served from the restaurant's open kitchens. Our staycation package includes a complimentary buffet breakfast, off on Anantara spa treatments, and direct booking benefits of resort credit when booking on anantara.com," it further added.
With holidays coming to an end on Monday, citizens as well as residents explored the 'unseen Oman' to the fullest only to be back to work all afresh.
@kabeeryousef
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
