Oman hosts a number of well-established annual events. During winter Bullfiting matches are conducted mainly in Barka and As Seeb. The bulls are bred for fighting. Admission is totally free and the winners can earn up to RO 2,500. Another important event is Camel Racing. It is a traditional sport event. Races are spread for several days. The camels are bred and trained for racing. Different sprints are organized for different age groups of camels. The winners can fetch up to R O 250,000. Mainly the races are held at tracks in As Seeb,Salalah,the interior and Batinah regions during public holidays and Nationaghl Day celebrations.
Fahal Island Swim is another important event conducted by Petroleum Development Oman since1989. Anyone can participate by filling an entry form and organize boat support by paying the fee of RO 5.The swimming competition is held from Al Fahal Island to the Ras Al Hamra Recreation Centre beach. In every winter the Oman Equestrain Federation organizes Annual Royal Meeting, National Shows Jumping competitions and every five years Royal Equestrain Show at the Enam Equestrain Grounds in Seeb. Horse Racing is also an important event.
Islamic New Year’s Day is celebrated based on lunar calendar. Lailat al Mi’raj is a public holiday celebrating in connection with Prophet’s ascension into heaven and the actual date depends on moon. The French Embassy organizes a traditional French festival of music named Fete de la Musique in every year June 21.
His Majesty’s Birthday is celebrated as Oman’s National Day in November 18 and the celebrations continue on 19th November. There are parades, fireworks, camel races and bullfighting throughout the country. Most of the villagers return to their home to celebrate the National Day, so the roads may be busier than usual. Renaissance Day is held on July 23.It commemorates the accession of his Majesty Sultan Qaboos to the throne. Oman has no tradition of classical music. But the Sultan’s passion for it led to the creation of the Royal Symphony Orchestra in 1985. It is composed entirely of young Omanis trained by foreign experts. In winter season a lively series of public concert is held at the Oman Auditorium of the Al Bustan Palace Hotel. It is known as ROSO Concert Series.
Wahiba Challenge is another event usually held in October and PDORC Land Adventure Club organizes it. This is a motor sport event that involves crossing the Wahiba Sands from east to west in a 4WD. It is not race, but rather a test of skill and endurance.
Oman’s premier motor sport event is usually held in early April over 3 days on 260km of timed gravel special stages around Muscat., with a 3 kilometre timed spectator stage at Maidan Al Fateh in Wattayah. International rally teams compete with local talent for pole position.