Khareef Dhofar 2025 to kick off on 21 june with diverse tourism, cultural experience

Times of Oman

29-04-2025

Dubai — During a press conference on the sidelines of its participation at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, the Sultanate of Oman unveiled the activities and events of 'Kareef Dhofar 2025' season, featuring a variety of tourism and cultural experiences. The season will coincide with the astronomical start of autumn on 21 June and run until 20 September each year.
Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality stated that this year's main and accompanying events will be distributed across both existing sites undergoing continuous development and new locations, offering visitors exceptional experiences.
He explained that the "Return of the Past" activities in this edition will feature a new approach reflecting Omani authenticity and traditional life from across the Sultanate of Oman's governorates. These will include folk art performances, heritage markets, and handicraft displays. He noted that last year's event achieved significant success and widespread acclaim from visitors and participants.
He added that the event's site has undergone comprehensive upgrades to enhance its heritage character, blending the charm of the past with the spirit of the present. Further developments are planned in the coming years to establish it as a leading heritage destination.
He affirmed that 'Ateen Square' will be a hub for major entertainment events and performances, building on the remarkable success of previous editions that attracted large audiences. The site will serve as a global events center, featuring an integrated shopping area, an open-air theater, a modern games zone, new light and laser shows, and contemporary dining facilities—solidifying its position as a premier cultural and entertainment destination.
Dr. Al Ghassani pointed out that Awqad Park will be a family entertainment center with activities tailored for children and parents, featuring a distinct theme this year. Meanwhile, 'Up Town' in Ateen Plain will debut with diverse events catering to all age groups.
He noted that Salalah Public Park will host various sports activities throughout the autumn season, with broad participation from all age groups and people with disabilities. 'Al Murooj Theater' will be dedicated to cultural events, featuring local, Gulf, and Arab theatrical performances.
The municipality is expanding events to include coastal Wilayats affected by the autumn season, with diverse cultural, sports, and commercial activities. Development projects—such as enhancing natural viewpoints, tourist sites, road paving, and urban beautification—have been implemented in collaboration with government and private entities to improve visitor experiences and tourism infrastructure, he further added.
On his turn, Azzan Qasim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, affirmed the ministry's readiness to promote 'Khareef Dhofar 2025' through various programs under a coordinated plan with relevant authorities.
He added that several new tourism and hotel facilities will open this year in Dhofar, where 83 licensed hotels—offering 6,537 rooms—are already prepared to welcome visitors.
The ministry has launched promotional campaigns for the season, starting with its participation at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, including a press conference to announce key events. Marketing efforts include media campaigns, social media promotions, direct outreach in Gulf and regional markets, digital ads, and familiarization trips for travel agencies, media delegations, and influencers, he pointed out.
He explained that special tourism packages have been designed in collaboration with local and international travel companies to enhance visitor experiences and boost inbound tourism by connecting Omani tourism entities with global markets.
Government and private entities prepare annually to receive tourists during Khareef Dhofar, providing necessary services and facilities.
According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information, visitor numbers to Dhofar during the 2024 khareef season rose by 9%, reaching approximately 1.048 million tourists.
Notably, Dhofar is also distinguished by two other seasons—Al-Sarb and winter—which attract nearly half a million visitors from various world countries.