
Omani Haj Mission leaves for Mecca
Led by Ahmed bin Saleh al Rashdi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, the mission was set to proceed to its headquarters in Makkah upon arrival at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
During their time in Makkah and Madinah, the Omani Haj Mission will assist Omani pilgrims, residents and other guests in carrying out their Haj rituals smoothly. — ONA
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Observer
a day ago
- Observer
An integrated destination for Khareef Dhofar Season
SALALAH: Tourism and entertainment projects are a vital support for Khareef Dhofar Season, monsoon season, as they provide comprehensive destinations that meet the needs of visitors, boost economic and commercial activity; and open up broader horizons for investment and the employment of national talent. These destinations are particularly important during the Khareef Dhofar Season, as they serve as attractions for visitors from within and outside the Sultanate of Oman. They offer a mix of cultural, recreational and commercial experiences while also encouraging entrepreneurship; and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which positively impacts the local economy and the sustainability of tourism. Samharam Resort is one such destination for the 2025 Khareef Dhofar Season. It provides integrated facilities and services that combine shopping, dining; and cultural and recreational activities, attracting visitors of all ages. Mohammed bin Ahmed al Hadri, a site supervisor at Samharam Resort, said the resort hosts a consumer exhibition organised by Al Awail Company for the Management and Organisation of International Exhibitions and Festivals. The exhibition features 150 to 160 shops from various Arab and foreign countries, with diverse pavilions to meet visitor needs. Additionally, a handicrafts section includes about 28 shops for SMEs and low-income individuals, supervised by the SME Development Authority (Riyada). He added that the outdoor area includes a variety of restaurants, cafes and games for both children and adults. There is also a stage that hosts children's competitions and artistic performances. He noted that the "Rifle" section features cafes, many of which are managed by Omani youth and enjoys a wide turnout from visitors. Musallam bin Abdulsalam Al Rawas, owner of Sar Events Company, stated that this is the first year the "Rifle" event is being held at the resort, marking its third consecutive year during Khareef Dhofar Season. He explained that the event includes a large selection of restaurants, a family and youth entertainment area and a stage with Omani and Gulf performances, in addition to hosting talented artists from Oman and other GCC countries. He added that the event offers various competitions for all ages and annually employs young Omanis who are job seekers and freelancers. He noted that the number of employees this year exceeded 45 young people, with a public turnout that reflects the event's success as a recreational destination during the Khareef season. Regarding visitor impressions, Sufyan bin Ghassan al Rashdi from Al Dakhiliyah Governorate said Samharam Resort is an outstanding tourist destination for families and visitors. The variety of modern facilities and events creates a joyful atmosphere that enhances the pleasure of the visit. He emphasised the importance of increasing public facilities in the future to accommodate the large turnout. Ahmed bin Ali al Saadi from Musandam Governorate explained that his recent visit to Khareef Dhofar Season introduced him to the notable development in tourist and recreational events, with a diversity of programmes and integrated services that make the tourist experience more exceptional. Meanwhile, Mohammad al Sai'ari, a tourist from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, pointed out that the events and activities at Samharam Resort are a unique addition to Khareef Dhofar Season, combining entertainment and education. He expressed his admiration for the consumer exhibition, which features various local products such as incense and perfumes, along with offers that provide visitors with a pleasant shopping experience in an organised and attractive atmosphere.


Observer
a day ago
- Observer
Traditional Dhofari cuisine spices up khareef season
Muscat, Aug 12 Khareef in Dhofar is a complete sensory journey — where the cool, rainy weather, the aroma of fresh greenery and the taste of authentic Omani flavours come together to create unforgettable memories. Dhofari cuisine is deeply connected to its land and history. It is built around local meats, grains, dairy products and a unique mix of Omani and Indian spices passed down through generations. During Khareef Dhofar Season, the experience of tasting these flavours becomes even more special against the backdrop of misty mountains and cool breezes. 'The Khareef Dhofar Season draws tourists to try more of our traditional dishes', says Chef Salim al Maashani, who runs a local restaurant in Salalah's Al Haffa Souq. 'From slow-cooked Shuwa to tropical fruits, every flavour tells the story of Dhofar'. Dhofari Shuwa (Traditional Barbecue) is cooked slowly in an underground oven or over charcoal, offering smoky, tender bites that pair perfectly with the misty, cool weather. Also, there is harees, a comforting wheat-and-meat dish simmered for hours until creamy, while Aseeda — a sweet made from flour, ghee and local honey — warms the soul on rainy evenings. This is in addition to farfaina (Dried Fish) which is a bold and authentic flavour of the sea, reflecting Dhofar's rich fishing heritage, perfect for visitors seeking a true local experience. Fresh milk, yoghurt and ghee remain a staple in Dhofari households and provide a simple yet authentic taste of the region's pastoral traditions. No culinary journey in Salalah is complete without Omani Halwa, a delicacy made with saffron, cardamom and rose water, often served warm. Visitors enjoy it alongside traditional Omani coffee (Qahwa), flavoured with cardamom and sometimes saffron, creating a welcoming ritual that reflects Dhofari hospitality. Tourists often describe these moments — sitting in a traditional majlis, sipping aromatic coffee while tasting the rich, silky halwa — as one of the highlights of their trip. Khareef brings life to Dhofar's farms, turning the region into a paradise of fresh fruits. Fresh Coconuts, enjoyed straight from the shell, are sold along the scenic roadsides. 'I never forget the taste of fresh coconut water in the middle of the misty hills', says Mariam Mohammed, a frequent visitor from Bahrain. 'It's the perfect complement to Salalah's magical weather'. Enjoying local cuisine in Khareef is more than a meal — it's an immersive cultural experience. From trying Shuwa and Harees after a mountain hike, to sipping Omani coffee with halwa in a rain-cooled majlis, every moment connects visitors to Dhofar's soul. Tourism researchers explain that Local foods, tropical fruits and the ritual of Omani coffee have become key highlights for tourists. Khareef Dhofar Season combines nature, culture and gastronomy in a single experience.


Muscat Daily
a day ago
- Muscat Daily
Al Haffa Beach Market in Salalah charms khareef visitors
Salalah – The Al Haffa Beach Market in Salalah has reaffirmed its place as one of Dhofar's most vibrant heritage and tourism destinations this khareef season, celebrating Omani identity while supporting hundreds of families engaged in the cottage industry. Spread across more than 356 stalls, the market offers visitors a wide range of handicrafts, traditional foods, local products, and heritage items. At its heart is the dedicated frankincense market, overseen by Dhofar Municipality, where visitors can learn about the extraction process and the many uses of this signature Omani treasure. 'Over 300 families are participating, presenting their handicrafts, traditional foods, and other Omani products in an atmosphere filled with the fragrance of frankincense, live performances, and traditional colours,' said Salim bin Abdullah Fadhel, supervisor of the frankincense market for productive families. This year, organisers have expanded exhibition spaces, improved facilities and parking, and introduced redesigned kiosks inspired by traditional Omani architecture. 'These enhancements not only elevate the visitor experience but also reflect the rich cultural identity of Dhofar,' Fadhel added. The market remains open until the end of khareef, offering daily performances by Omani art groups, children's programmes, and a variety of restaurants, cafes, and banking services. Al Haffa Market manager Haitham Mahmoud Gad described it as a key stop for visitors from within Oman and abroad.