Khareef Dhofar Season: A gateway to local tourism
Strengthening domestic tourism is a national priority — not only as a means of resource development and service expansion, but also as a path toward job creation. This requires well-developed infrastructure, the expansion of tourism offerings, support for related activities, and the creation of national strategies that support tourism-driven development on economic, social, and cultural fronts.
While tourism is highly sensitive to national, regional, and global developments, it represents an opportunity to establish a solid economic and cultural foundation. The sector's wide investment scope allows for innovative community-driven visions that support sustainable economic models and overall national development.
Tourism growth today depends on incentives shaped by cutting-edge technology and tourism models designed for resilience and sustainability. Technological advancements help accelerate economic gains in tourism, support diversification, and create enabling environments for youth-led initiatives and small enterprises — particularly during peak travel seasons.
Domestic tourism, in this light, becomes essential for innovation, sustainability, and prioritising environmental and social responsibility. In times of global conflict, pandemic outbreaks, or instability, local tourism emerges as the safest and most reliable option. It also caters to both recreational and educational needs, making it an indispensable tool for fostering economic, cultural, and social development.
The tourism sector in Oman has undergone noticeable growth in recent years, especially as governorates have gained greater capacity to develop their local industries. Each region offers its own unique natural and architectural features, along with human resources capable of managing and developing tourism in line with creative and innovative capacities. This decentralised approach supports wider outreach, increased visitor engagement, and expanded community participation.
A leading example is the Khareef Dhofar Season which presents an expansive opportunity for exploration, entertainment, and learning. It invites visitors to experience cultural richness through initiatives such as Return to the Past, while also offering a wide array of recreational, sports, and cultural activities across the governorate. Unique eco-tourism and cultural experiences throughout Dhofar's towns further enhance its appeal.
More than a seasonal destination, the Season represents a national tourism and cultural event, built on cooperation among Oman's governorates, government institutions, the private sector, and civil society. It reflects a strong societal awareness of the season's significance. The festival has become a magnet for small and medium enterprises, a recreational outlet for families and youth, and a platform for writers, artists, athletes, and creatives seeking peace, inspiration, and expression.
Improvements to infrastructure and services in Dhofar have made its natural and architectural landmarks more accessible, driving tourism in all its forms. Enhanced facilities now meet the diverse needs of visitors, providing a rich, fulfilling experience that supports both entertainment and education. This success has extended beyond the khareef season to include other popular periods such as the Sarb and winter seasons — both of which are drawing increasing numbers of visitors and tourism investments.
Local tourism has proven to be one of the most essential models for enabling economic, cultural, and social growth, particularly under the constraints of today's global conditions. It offers a practical alternative to international travel and is being actively strengthened by many nations through logistical support and global event models that bring international experiences to domestic audiences.
During the summer holiday season, when families seek enjoyable, educational, and meaningful activities for their children, local tourism offers valuable options. The Khareef Season, with its rich entertainment offerings and inviting natural environment, stands as a powerful model for growing and sustaining high-quality tourism within Oman.
2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
4 hours ago
- Zawya
New youth-led initiative to boost palm sector innovation launched at Al Dhaid Dates Festival 2025
Sharjah: The Sharjah Youth Council (SYC), in collaboration with the UAE Youth Entrepreneurship Council, hosted an interactive youth session as part of the 9th edition of the Al Dhaid Date Festival, which is organised by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) at Expo Al Dhaid and is concluding today, Sunday. Held under the theme "At the Heart of Sharjah Central Region… Our Youth: Leadership and Growth", the session aimed to reinforce the festival's role as a strategic platform for recognising agricultural innovation and empowering youth contributions to the future of the sector. The event was attended by H.E. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI; H.E. Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of SCCI; and H.E Rashid Khalifa Al Mahyan, Chairman of the Parents Council for Male and Female Students in the Central Region, along with several senior representatives and members of youth councils from across the UAE. During the youth circle, officials announced the launch of an innovative youth-focused competition titled "Innovate with Dates," scheduled for the next edition of the Al Dhaid Date Festival. The competition aims to stimulate youth innovation by encouraging the development of commercially viable, value-added concepts derived from dates in fields such as food manufacturing, biotechnology, and contemporary craft production. The session also featured the announcement of the Sharjah Youth Council's plan to establish the "Central Region Youth Council," set to be officially launched during International Youth Day on August 12, 2025. The new council will serve as a representative platform for youth in the Central Region, enabling their involvement in shaping and executing initiatives that address local priorities. It aims to ensure that regional development strategies are informed by grassroots insights and aligned with community needs. H.E. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais reaffirmed the Sharjah Chamber's commitment to supporting youth empowerment by launching targeted initiatives that strengthen their contribution to economic progress. He emphasised the Chamber's efforts to foster entrepreneurial engagement among young individuals, particularly in the SME sector, by providing them with opportunities to unleash their creative potential and turn their innovative ideas into successful tangible projects. Moderated by Yaqoub Al Baloushi, Media Officer at the Sharjah Youth Council, the session highlighted key discussions focused on advancing national priorities that position youth as central stakeholders in the country's development agenda. It highlighted the importance of empowering the next generation as proactive contributors to future-building, in line with the objectives of the UAE's National Youth Agenda 2031. A distinguished panel of speakers contributed to the youth circle. Dr. Mariam Bin Haddah Al Suwaidi, President of Sharjah Youth Council, highlighted the Council's evolving role from mere representation to achieving real impact through the development of initiatives that address the genuine needs of youth. She noted that the establishment of the Central Region Youth Council reflects an institutional commitment to ensuring that the perspectives of young individuals inform policy and leadership decisions across the emirate. Abdullah Al Kaabi, member of the UAE Youth Entrepreneurship Council, stated that the entrepreneurial environment in the UAE has evolved into a key catalyst for empowering youth. He explained how the integrated ecosystem of mentorship and networking is opening new horizons for young people in the Central Region to transform their innovative ideas into viable and scalable business projects. Jassim Al Obaidli, Director of Youth Engagement at the Federal Youth Authority, spoke about the Authority's role as a national umbrella dedicated to youth empowerment and development across the UAE. Maha Al Muhairi, member of the UAE Youth Council for Agriculture, concluded the discussion by stressing the importance of youth empowerment in the modern agricultural sector. She noted that ensuring future food security hinges on the fusion of innovation, technology, and sustainability, presenting a unique leadership opportunity for the next generation. For further information, please contact: Ali Elgendy Misbar Communications ali@ Ahmad Aldwairi Misbar Communications
Zawya
4 hours ago
- Zawya
Development Bank loan approvals rise 13% to RO 110mln in H1 2025
Muscat – Development Bank has approved 3,716 loans worth RO 110 million (US$286 million) during the first six months of 2025, marking a 13% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth reflects the bank's commitment to supporting Oman Vision 2040 by promoting economic diversification and strengthening the private sector across the country. 'The loans and programs we provide contribute substantial added value to our national economy,' said Hamad Al Harthi, MSME Chief & Portfolio Management, Development Bank. 'We're helping meet food security requirements, reduce reliance on imports and encourage entrepreneurs to pursue new opportunities.' The bank's success stems from its tailored approach that recognizes the unique needs of businesses at different stages of development. 'We craft solutions that align with their business strategies,' Al Harthi explained, enabling both start-ups and established companies to grow and expand their operations. Building on this comprehensive strategy, H1 financing was distributed across key economic sectors that drive national development. Manufacturing received the largest allocation at RO38 million (US$99 million) reflecting the sector's important role in reducing import dependence. General professional services attracted RO19 million (US$49 million) while traditional sectors also saw strong support with fisheries receiving RO14 million (US$36 million), agriculture RO9 million (US$23 million) and mining RO8 million (US$21 million). This sector-focused approach was matched by broad geographical reach across Oman. Muscat Governorate received RO25 million (US$65 million) while regional development was supported through considerable allocations to North Al Batinah at RO18 million (US$47 million) and South Al Sharqiyah at RO14 million (US$36 million). South Al Batinah received RO11 million (US$29 million) and Al Wusta Governorate RO8 million (US$21 million) ensuring development opportunities reach communities nationwide. The increased lending demonstrates the bank's commitment to supporting businesses of all sizes, from start-ups and SMEs to large corporates. This approach enables entrepreneurs to implement projects across growth-driving sectors while maximizing local value creation and contributing to Oman's strategic economic goals. As part of a broader ecosystem of government organizations aligned with Oman Vision 2040, Development Bank continues to provide support and incentives to strengthen national industries and promote in-country value. 'Our shared goal is sustainable and inclusive progress,' Al Harthi concluded. 'We're proud that our support is helping ambitious, growing companies fulfill their potential while driving economic transformation.' About Development Bank Development Bank (DB) is a key enabler of economic growth, providing innovative financing solutions to support Oman's Vision 2040 and the transition to a diversified, sustainable economy. DB offers tailored financial products and services to a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, tourism, manufacturing, renewable energy, health, education and logistics, focusing on projects that drive in-country value and job creation. By funding MSME development, DB plays an important role in fostering entrepreneurship, promoting regional development that aligns with national and global sustainability goals. For more information, visit: For Press Enquiries Mohammed Al Saqlawi Marketing Department Development Bank PO Box 3077 Ruwi, 112 Sultanate of Oman
Zawya
a day ago
- Zawya
Vatel Bahrain launches first MBA in International Hotel Management in the Kingdom
Bahrain: In response to growing demand for specialised leaders in the region's rapidly expanding tourism sector, Vatel Bahrain has launched the Kingdom's first MBA in International Hotel Management. The two-year postgraduate programme, approved by the Higher Education Council (HEC), is placed at level 7 of the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) and aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) at level 9, offering students an internationally recognised pathway to senior roles in the hospitality and tourism sector locally, regionally and internationally. In line with the college's strategic goals, the MBA programme supports the objectives of Bahrain Vision 2030 and the Kingdom's Tourism Strategy 2022–2026 by empowering national talent in high-potential sectors and equipping them with professional knowledge, relevant skills, and leadership capabilities that enhance their contribution to sustainable economic development. Delivered entirely in English over two academic years, the programme is designed to engage students in a unique curriculum covering subjects such as Economy of Tourism and Hospitality, Marketing Strategy, Financial Analysis, Human Resources, Hospitality and Tourism Strategy, and language studies in English and French, honing their skills and enhancing industry readiness. Admission to the programme requires a bachelor's qualification in Hospitality or Hotel Management, or a bachelor's degree in any other discipline accompanied by a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience. Applicants must also successfully complete a personal interview as part of the selection process. Sheikh Khaled bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, General Director of Vatel Bahrain, affirmed that the introduction of this MBA programme—considered the first of its kind in the Kingdom—addresses the increasing need for skilled leadership in the hospitality and tourism industries across Bahrain and the wider region, while also executes Vatel Bahrain's strategic plan aimed at developing national and regional competencies to the highest standards by equipping them with professional skills, expertise and knowledge in the tourism field. Sheikh Khaled further added that the MBA programme has been meticulously developed to equip graduates with the professional knowledge, strategic acumen, and global perspective essential for assuming senior leadership roles within the tourism and hospitality sector. By seamlessly integrating academic rigour with practical industry experience and remaining attuned to evolving global trends, the programme seeks to address existing professional gaps and contribute meaningfully to enhancing the quality and competitiveness of hospitality services in Bahrain and the wider region. For more information, please contact: Zainab Ashoor | Marketing & Communications Specialist Al Jasra, Kingdom of Bahrain About Vatel Hospitality School: Vatel Hospitality School was established in France in 1981, specializing in business management within the hospitality and tourism sectors it has grown into a global network of over 55 campuses in 33 countries. The Bahrain campus, founded in 2018, is part of this global network. Vatel holds a distinguished international reputation, with over 45,000 graduates worldwide who have gone on to become leaders in the industry. Vatel has consistently been ranked first in France and 12th globally in hospitality management, according to the latest QS rankings, maintaining this position for four consecutive years.
