The Dhofar Khareef season is set to begin tomorrow, Friday, bringing with it the monsoon winds and clouds from the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean. This season is known for its cloudy and rainy weather, as well as moderate temperatures that drop even further in the high mountainous areas. The region becomes shrouded in fog with light rain, making it a popular destination for visitors and tourists from both inside and outside of Oman. The mountainous areas and plains are transformed into lush, green landscapes due to the continuous light rain and intermittent drizzle, while the flow of water increases in the springs, creating beautiful tourist attractions such as the springs of Razat, Hamran, Gerziz, Sahelnot, and Tobruk. Additionally, the famous waterfalls of Darbat, Athum, Kor, Jujib, and Al-Houta are must-see sights during the season.
Dhofar Governorate boasts a diverse range of natural tourist attractions, including marine, agricultural, mountainous, and desert environments, as well as UNESCO World Heritage sites like Al Baleed and Samharam Archaeological Parks, the Land of Frankincense Museum, and historical forts in several wilayats. During the Khareef season, shopping centers and shops in Salalah experience a surge in commercial activity as tourists and visitors flock to purchase traditional products such as frankincense, incense, silver and pottery items, Omani sweets, and local cuisine. The Salalah Plain is famous for its tropical agricultural products like coconuts, bananas, papaya, and sugarcane, as well as beautiful creeks, natural reserves, and diverse animal and marine life.
In preparation for the influx of tourists during the Khareef season, government and private agencies in Dhofar Governorate work to ensure that facilities and services are in place to meet the needs of visitors. The region saw a significant increase in visitors during the last fall season of 2023, with a growth of 18.4 percent totaling approximately 962,000 visitors and tourists. The total spending by visitors during the season reached OMR 103 million, underscoring the economic importance of tourism in the region. As the season kicks off, businesses and attractions in Dhofar Governorate are gearing up to welcome guests from near and far, offering a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of this enchanting region. Whether you’re interested in exploring the natural wonders, historical sites, or vibrant cultural offerings, the Dhofar Khareef season promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
