Dhofar’s Khareef season begins tomorrow as Oman prepares for surge in visitors

SALALAH: The annual Dhofar Autumn Season (Khareef), one of Oman's most celebrated tourism and climate events, begins on Sunday and will continue through September 21, transforming the southern governorate into a lush green landscape and drawing visitors from across the region.

The seasonal monsoon, driven by winds from the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, brings clouds, drizzle and rainfall to Dhofar’s coastal areas, stretching from Dhalkut in the west to Mirbat in the east. The weather creates cooler temperatures, dense fog in mountainous areas and widespread greenery, making the region a unique summer destination in the Gulf.

Natural attractions across the governorate come alive during the season. Water flow increases at popular springs including Ain Razat, Hamran, Jarziz, Sahlnut and Tabraq, while seasonal waterfalls such as Wadi Darbat Waterfalls, Athum, Kur, Jujab and Al-Hawta attract large numbers of visitors.

Beyond its natural beauty, Dhofar offers a rich cultural and historical experience. The governorate is home to several UNESCO-listed sites associated with the ancient frankincense trade, including Al Baleed Archaeological Park, Sumhuram Archaeological Site, Wadi Dawkah and Ubar Archaeological Site. Visitors can also explore the Museum of the Frankincense Land and historic forts in Rakhyut, Taqah, Mirbat and Sadah.

The season also provides a significant boost to the local economy. Demand typically rises for traditional Omani products, including frankincense, incense, silverware, pottery and Omani sweets, while restaurants serving local cuisine experience increased business.

Dhofar’s fertile Salalah Plain is particularly known for its tropical agriculture, producing coconuts, bananas, papayas and sugarcane, all of which have become closely associated with the region’s identity.

Government agencies and private-sector partners have completed extensive preparations for the season, upgrading roads, tourist facilities and visitor services. Expectations for strong visitor growth are further supported by additional direct regional flights operating to Salalah Airport.

According to data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information, more than 1.07 million visitors travelled to Dhofar during the 2025 Khareef season, representing growth of 2.1% compared with 2024 and 11.3% compared with 2023. Visitor spending reached approximately OMR 125 million in 2025, up from OMR 121 million in 2024 and OMR 103 million in 2023.

With cooler weather, verdant landscapes and a blend of natural and cultural attractions, Dhofar is once again preparing to welcome hundreds of thousands of tourists during Oman’s most distinctive tourism season.