Muscat: The break, which offered residents a much-needed escape from the summer heat, saw airports bustling, barbecues fired up, and many choosing both staycations and overseas travel.

“The holidays went by too quick, and I am now ready to go back to work, but I’m glad it’s just three more days and then the weekend again,” said Jacob, an employee at a tax firm in Muscat, reflecting the mixed emotions of many as Oman gets back to business.

As temperatures continued to rise across the Sultanate, many opted for cooler international destinations. Countries like Uzbekistan, Georgia, Turkey, and Sri Lanka emerged as favorites. “I was really looking forward to escaping the heat and my mundane schedule,” said Rahul, an accountant who travelled with his cousins to Sri Lanka. “It’s budget-friendly, and the mountains are a perfect break from the heat.”

For travel agencies, the rush brought its own set of challenges. “I had to work overtime and skip the first two days of the holiday because of the increase in traffic during the Eid Al Adha holidays,” said Reuben, a travel agent.

Those who stayed back made the most of the holiday with traditional customs and family gatherings. Meera, a housewife, described her simple celebration: “We woke up, the kids ate breakfast with their dad, and we headed to the mosque. Later, we visited my parents and grandmother after a relaxed day at home.”

Hamad, a taxi driver, gave a glimpse into traditional Omani Eid customs: “Earliest morning, we prepare the main sacrifice, usually a camel, then we cook part of it for lunch with Omani bread. We prepare and bury shuwa. On the third day, we barbecue, and on the fourth, we dig up the shuwa for a final feast.”

Now, as residents return to work, the Eid memories linger — and the countdown to the weekend begins once again.