Thursday 02 / January / 2025
Muscat: The Muscat Nights festival has transformed the city into a vibrant hub of activity, drawing thousands of visitors to its diverse venues.
One of the most exhilarating events was the MENA Drift Championship, held at the Oman Automobile Association Arena on Saturday.
The arena was packed with fans, their faces illuminated by the dazzling lights and the roar of engines, as they witnessed some of the region’s top drivers compete in high-speed drifts.
The championship featured 32 professional drivers from across the Middle East and beyond, including Oman, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon, India, Belarus, and El Salvador.
The competition was fierce, with drivers pushing their vehicles to the limit on challenging technical tracks.
In the end, Omani driver Ahmed Al Ameri clinched the top spot, while Nasser Al Harbali from El Salvador secured second place, and Omani driver Tariq Al Shihani finished third.
The prize-distribution was held under the auspices of Faisal al Rawas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), and Ahmed Al Hamidi, Chairman of Muscat Municipality, in the presence of OAA’s chairman Brigadier Jamal Al Tai and a large number of officials and drift fans.
The dignitaries commended the success of the championship and its role in enhancing Oman’s reputation in the international motorsport arena.
Beyond the adrenaline-fuelled competitions, Muscat Nights has been a resounding success, attracting large crowds to various venues across the city.
The festival, which began on December 23, 2024, and runs until January 21, 2025, offers a wide array of activities catering to all ages.
Highlights include the Flower Festival at Qurum Natural Park, featuring stunning floral displays and drone shows; theatrical performances and a heritage village at Al Amerat Park; and a drift track along with fireworks at Naseem Park.
Seeb Beach has also been a hotspot, offering beach football, drum shows, and magic performances.
The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre is hosting the ‘Celebrate Every Story’ event, featuring beloved characters like Looney Tunes and Scooby-Doo. Additionally, Wadi Al Khoudh is offering adventure activities such as zip lines and 4WD challenges.
Muscat Nights underscores the city’s commitment to providing diverse and engaging experiences for both residents and visitors. The festival has not only showcased Oman’s rich cultural heritage but also its capacity to host world-class events, solidifying Muscat’s position as a premier destination for entertainment and tourism in the region.
