Hockey5s carnival to feature 500 players, 47 teams in Oman

MUSCAT: Oman is all set to host a landmark hockey5s event as the Hockey Oman Carnival will bring together 47 teams and more than 500 players from five countries for a three-day festival of sport and culture.

Scheduled from 13–15 November at the Hockey Oman Arena, Al Amerat, the hockey5s carnival is poised to be one of the largest gatherings of the sport in the region.

Matches will be played across three grounds, starting daily at 2pm, while the Fan Village, opening at 5pm, will offer cultural performances, family games, competitions, and vintage car displays. A special 600-women dance formation show will also take place, blending sport with a community celebration.

The carnival features multiple tournaments to showcase talent across age groups and levels: the Gulf Cup Hockey Fiesta for men, the Hockey Oman International Women’s Tournament, the Oman–India School Tournament, and the Masters Cup for players aged 45 and above.

Teams from India, Egypt, UAE, Iraq, and Oman will compete, including nine Indian teams with international players, highlighting the event’s growing international appeal.

Co-organisers Hockey Oman and United Thalassery Sports Club (UTSC) emphasised that the carnival is not just about competition but also about nurturing young talent and promoting hockey at the grassroots level.

Marwan Juma Al Juma, Oman Hockey Association chairman, said: “The future of hockey starts in our schools. Through events like this carnival, we aim to inspire young players and strengthen the sport across Oman.”