Campaign held in GCC cities to showcase khareef season
The campaign focuses on Khareef Dhofar Season, one of the most prominent tourism attraction periods in the Sultanate of Oman. During the khareef season, which begins on June 21 every year, Dhofar Governorate is endowed with moderate weather and adorned with picturesque vegetation.
To make optimum use of the khareef season, the MoHT provides visitors with full information that enables them to engage in different tourism experiences and activities, including recreational events, nature exploration trips and visits to heritage and archaeological sites.
The information also includes an account of direct flight options to Salalah. This facilitates access to hotspots in Dhofar Governorate and enhances its appeal as a preferred summer destination. Besides attracting visitors from GCC states, the information boosts Dhofar's presence on the regional tourism map.
The promotional activities provide an opportunity to introduce visitors to Dhofar Governorate's tourism attractions and reflect the Sultanate of Oman's commitment to develop the tourism sector throughout the year.
The ministry launched similar promotional campaigns during its participation in the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai in April 2025. Oman was represented at the event by Dhofar Municipality, which dedicated a special gallery in Oman's pavilion to highlight the features, landmarks and events that will be held during Khareef Dhofar Season 2025.
Last month (May 2025), the ministry organised two workshops in Riyadh and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The workshops saw the participation of tourism sector partners from Dhofar Governorate, as well as Flynas and Flyadeal. It is worth noting that direct flights will be operated on a daily basis to Salalah Airport during the khareef season.
Earlier, the MoHT implemented similar promotional activities in the State of Kuwait and the Kingdom of Bahrain as part of events aimed at marketing the Khareef Dhofar Season 2025. - ONA
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Times of Oman
3 hours ago
- Times of Oman
Dhofar exhibition showcases mountain, marine environment
Salalah: An exhibition titled 'Dhofar: A Natural History Wonder' was inaugurated on Sunday at the Museum of the Frankincense Land in Salalah. The exhibition is organised by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in cooperation with the Natural History Museum in Muscat and the Museum of the Frankincense Land in Dhofar Governorate. The exhibition was opened under the auspices of Dr. Abdullah Ali Al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Agency, and will run until 31 August. The exhibition showcases the mountain and marine environments of Dhofar, displaying a diversity of rare wildlife found worldwide, along with the various plants that grow across the governorate's wilayats. It also features a scientific collection on the natural history of Dhofar. Usama Mohammed Al Rowas, Director of the Museum of the Frankincense Land, stated that the exhibition, launched by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, aims to enhance environmental protection awareness, highlight the importance of conserving natural resources, and provide an educational and recreational platform for visitors of all ages. He added that the exhibition is uniquely displayed across different halls of the Museum, making it accessible to all visitors during the Khareef (monsoon) season. This is intended to activate the governorate's role as a global tourist destination.
Observer
a day ago
- Observer
Khareef Dhofar Season: Nature's monsoon spectacle weaves heritage and community spirit
SALALAH: The mountain villages of Dhofar Governorate come alive each year during the Khareef Dhofar Season, when mist rolls in and green blankets the landscape, signalling a timeless renewal of life and tradition. As the first rains fall, the region undergoes a dramatic transformation — reviving ancestral customs, seasonal rhythms and a deep connection between people and the natural world. Citizens who spoke to ONA reflected on the significance of this annual season and the preparations it demands. "Khareef is our lifeline", says Bakhit bin Said Daan al Shahri. 'We begin preparing as early as June — repairing livestock pens, collecting firewood, storing fodder and cleaning tanks to harvest rainwater, which we rely on for drinking and cooking throughout the season'. Pastoral life follows age-old patterns shaped by the changing weather. Camel herder Said bin Mohammed al Mashaikhi explains how herders move their animals to less humid areas — like the cotton plains behind the mountains — before returning to the highlands after the rains. Grazing routes are chosen daily depending on grass availability. The 'Makhraf', a temporary camel shelter, is not only a functional space but also a social one, where guests are welcomed with fresh milk and warm hospitality. Salim bin Musallam al Amri notes that Khareef intertwines agriculture, tourism and spirituality, drawing thousands of local and international visitors. 'Many people take their annual leave during this season to spend time in the villages', he adds. Women, too, play a central role in sustaining seasonal life. Mazoon bint Agham al Shahriyah recalls earlier days: 'We used to thatch cow sheds (Duqoof) with grass and dung, tan hides to churn ghee and sew traditional dresses for weddings and festive visits. Khareef is a season of joy, connection and celebration'. Today, thanks to improved infrastructure and services, rural life has become more convenient. With better homes, piped water and electricity, women now dedicate more time to cultivating crops like cowpeas (Al Dougar), corn (Al Mahindi) and millet (Al Thayrit), keeping agricultural traditions alive. Each year, the Khareef Dhofar Season tells a story of harmony between man and land — a story of resilience, renewal and shared memory that continues to define the identity of Dhofar. — ONA
Observer
a day ago
- Observer
Sunshine draws tourists to Dhofar's waterfalls, heritage sites
SALALAH: After weeks of heavy monsoon rainfall, clear skies returned to Dhofar last week, revealing a breathtaking green carpet stretched across the governorate's mountains and plains. The sunshine, which broke through from the beginning of last week continued throughout the week, drawing large crowds to Dhofar's natural wonders and heritage sites. One of the most anticipated sights was the reappearance of waterfalls at Ayn Korr, a popular natural spring in Salalah. These seasonal cascades typically begin flowing in mid-August as rain-fed groundwater levels rise — marking the peak of the Khareef Dhofar Season. 'The view today is absolutely stunning', said an Omani visitor. 'Just a few days ago, the area was blanketed in heavy fog. Now, the green mountains and blue skies are like something out of a dream — especially for those of us living in the Gulf'. Tourists from across the region have been arriving in growing numbers, drawn by Dhofar's unique monsoon climate, which offers a refreshing escape from the intense summer heat elsewhere in the GCC. 'I've lived in the Gulf for nearly a decade', said an Indian tourist based in the UAE. 'But I never imagined a place like this existed — rain, greenery and pleasant temperatures in the middle of summer. After seeing photos online, I brought my family here and it has exceeded all expectations'. Sunshine draws tourists to Dhofar's waterfalls, heritage sites Many travellers are combining nature excursions with cultural discovery. A Saudi visitor to the ancient site of Sumhuram in the Wilayat of Taqah expressed his surprise at the depth of the region's historical significance. 'I had no idea the Arabian Peninsula held such rich heritage', he said. 'The site is beautifully maintained and well-documented. I truly appreciate Oman's commitment to preserving and showcasing its historical landmarks'. Sumhuram, once one of the oldest known ports in the Arabian Peninsula, has become a major heritage attraction during the Khareef Dhofar Season, drawing history lovers and families alike. This year's Khareef Season has seen a notable surge in tourism, bolstered by targeted government initiatives, improved infrastructure and active promotional campaigns. Authorities have also stepped up inspection efforts to ensure service quality, while Dhofar Municipality and the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism continue to roll out a wide range of cultural and family-oriented events. With monsoon rains still feeding the region's springs and valleys; and the sun now casting light on its natural beauty, Dhofar has once again reaffirmed its place as the Gulf's ultimate summer destination.
