Muscat Festival: a celebration of Muscat heritage, this event is one of the biggest of the year, featuring all aspects of Omani culture including handicrafts, folklore and history. The festival is educational as much as it is cultural, with theatre performances, educational seminars and poetry and literature readings.

New Year’s Day: while not observed by many Muslims who follow the Islamic calendar, many ex-pats indulge in New Year celebrations, with the eve before being a popular time to hold parties and family gatherings.

Eid al Adha: also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, this is the time of year when many Muslims make a pilgrimage to Mecca. The festival commemorates Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, for God. Muslims across the city sacrifice sheep at this time as well as camels and cows, with some of the meat being distributed among those who are less privileged. Muscat residents spend time in prayer during this festival, visit their family and often give gifts to children.

Islamic New Year: also known as Muharram, like most significant holidays in Oman, a ban on live entertainment and alcohol is observed on this day.

Mouloud: this festival observes Mohammed’s birthday. Held in mid-June and also known as Mawlid Al Nabi.

Salalah Khareef Festival: from mid-July to August, this six-week festival celebrates the monsoon season and the cultural heritage of Oman. It takes place in the tropical region of Salalah, about 1030km along the coast from Muscat (12 hours drive or 1 hour by plane). Expect everything from folklore performances, jewellery exhibits to poetry readings, children’s activities and kite flying.

Shopping Festival: held annually in September, the city’s shopping centres come alive with special deals, while the festival also encompasses the Autumn Trade Fair, which is held at the Oman International Exhibition Centre.

Motor Show: held annually in September at the International Exhibition Centre, visitors can see the latest models of vehicles and get a taste of the future of motoring.

National Day and the Birthday of Sultan Qaboos: held in mid-November, National Day is a huge celebration in Oman. The official site of celebrations changes each year and events usually include camel racing, dancing and fireworks. During the festival and its build-up, visitors will see images of the Sultan spread across the city as well as the Omani flag.

Eid al Fitr: this is the three-day festival that celebrates the end of Ramadan. In contrast to Ramadan, this is not a fasting period; it is a time to enjoy food along with your family. Popular activities on these days include praying, eating, visiting family and giving gifts to children.