Muscat: In its inaugural week, Muscat Nights attracted over 250,000 visitors following its opening on December 23, 2024. Officials reported, “More than a quarter of a million visitors enjoyed the events across its seven venues.”
The Muscat Municipality, the event's organizers, has effectively chosen key locations this year to enhance accessibility for both residents and tourists throughout the capital.
The events are hosted in various venues, including Amerat Park, Al Naseem Public Park, Oman Automobile Association, Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), Al Hail Beach, Wadi al Khoud, and Al Qurum Natural Park, along with several cultural centers and shopping malls.
According to a statement from Muscat Municipality, “Each venue provides a distinct experience, ensuring there is something appealing for everyone.”
“Muscat Nights serves as a microcosm of what makes Oman a distinctive destination in the region. It showcases rich cultural elements and offers a chance to experience the country’s traditions, while also featuring numerous modern events introduced by the organizers this year,” remarked Indian expatriate Madhu.
Families attending this year's Muscat Nights can look forward to a variety of events designed to engage all their senses. Additionally, local merchants are showcasing some of the region's most exquisite and unique products. These offerings evoke the rich memories of historic bazaars that are deeply woven into Oman's cultural fabric, according to Murugeshan, an Indian expatriate who operates his own business.
“Visitors will find an impressive selection, including gourmet cheeses, saffron, premium dates, traditional Omani incense, dried fruits, olive oil, and luxurious silks and spices from the Indian subcontinent. These exceptional items are sure to captivate attendees,” he added.
This year's Muscat Nights also features an extensive collection of high-quality clothing, handbags, perfumes, and much more. For children who may tire of exploring the stalls with their parents, there are numerous attractions beyond the marketplace to keep them entertained.
Mirshad, an Indian from Kerala, remarked, “From games that challenge both mental and physical skills to thrilling roller-coaster rides, Muscat Nights offers a wealth of experiences for everyone to momentarily escape their worries and reminisce about simpler times.”
During this year's event, guests will be immersed in a variety of exciting attractions, showcasing some of the most cherished characters in entertainment. Attendees can step into vibrant realms featuring Looney Tunes, Scooby-Doo, Batman, the Justice League, and Tom and Jerry.
This festival will bring beloved characters to life in an unprecedented manner, creating a unique celebration that unites your favorite childhood figures in one location. Key attractions of the festival include the Flower Festival, Food Festival, Global Village, and spectacular Drone Shows, along with breathtaking Laser and Light Shows. Attendees can relish the delightful weather, savor exquisite dishes, or be captivated by stunning light displays, ensuring a wealth of entertainment options.
Additionally, the festival will offer a range of interactive activities at its various venues. At Qurum National Park, guests can enjoy the Al Qurum Carnival, equestrian competitions, and theatrical performances, while Al Amerat Public Park will feature a hybrid show, Heritage Village, amusement rides, and thrilling aerial and acrobatic displays.
The Children’s Carnival at Al Amerat is also set to be a major attraction for younger attendees.
Other venues, including Al Naseem Public Park, the Oman Automobile Association, the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, and Sur Al Hadeed Beach, will present a diverse selection of cultural performances, exhibitions, and more, ensuring that every family member finds something enjoyable.
With such a rich array of events and activities, Muscat Nights promises to be an extraordinary experience that delights visitors of all ages.