Some livestock owners make over 8,000 riyals due to high demand for local animals.
Ibri: Omanis flocked to Eid Habta markets in large numbers across the country ahead of Eid Al Fitr.
Eid Habta is a traditional livestock market with centuries-old roots, primarily selling livestock. These markets, which open on the 24th of Ramadan and continue until the last day of Ramadan, also offer other essentials like gifts, nuts, children's toys, household items and more.
Many of the products at these markets are provided by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and local artisans, reflecting traditional entrepreneurial culture. The exhibits include ready-made clothing, perfumes, household supplies, and Omani cuisine. Self-employed families also showcase local crafts.
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Habta markets can be found in provinces such as Rustaq, Nakhal, Awabi, Nizwa, Yanqul, Bahla, Ibri, Izki, Adam, Mudhaibi, Ibra, Sinaw, Bidbid, Sur, Jaalan, Bidyah, Khasab, Seeb, and Muscat.
In these markets, professional auctioneers oversee livestock auctions. Auctions start at 200 riyals, with goat prices ranging from 50 to 300 riyals. Local livestock, including Omani goats, sheep, and cows, are typically priced twice as much as imported animals. Many Omanis prefer local livestock due to its tender meat and ease of cooking.
### High demand for local animals
Auctioneers earn a commission of at least 3% from each sale and can make up to 1,000 riyals in less than five days. Some livestock owners make over 8,000 riyals due to high demand for local animals.
Mohammad Al Ghafri, a livestock owner from Ibri, shared, “I used to earn at least 2,000 riyals from selling livestock at Eid Habta. It's a booming business, especially during Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, and helps me buy other essentials for my family.”
Juma Al Shukaili, 77, an Ibri resident, reminisced, "I’ve been attending Habta markets since I was a child in the 50s. I still miss those old days, despite the hardships we faced."
These traditional markets have seen massive turnouts from nationals and residents, causing traffic snarls in some areas. Eid Habta is especially enjoyable for children, who love selecting games, garments, and sweets like Halwa and other confections. The event celebrates a wide array of Omani habits and traditions passed down through generations.
On Sunday, Oman announced the Eid Al Fitr holidays starting Saturday, March 29, as per Royal Orders.
If Eid falls on Sunday, the holiday will end on Tuesday, April 1,(3rd Shawwal 1446 AH), with work resuming on Wednesday, April 2.
If Eid falls on Monday, March 31, the holiday will end on Thursday, April 3, (4th Shawwal 1446 AH), with work resuming on Sunday, April 6, 2025.
_Fahad Al Mukrashi is a freelance journalist based in Oman_
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