Latest news with #Dhofari
Observer
2 days ago
- Observer
Dhofar Museum opens; to promote heritage and cultural tourism
SALALAH: The Dhofar Museum opened in the Wilayat of Salalah under the auspices of HH Sayyid Marwan bin Turki al Said, Governor of Dhofar, on Monday. The opening of the new museum is part of efforts aimed at promoting heritage and cultural tourism in Dhofar Governorate. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Hamza bin Mohammed al Ghassani, a member of the Board of Directors of Dhofar Museum, explained that the museum's vision is not limited to documentation or display but also includes educating generations, serving researchers and school and university students as well as promoting heritage and cultural tourism in the Sultanate of Oman, and Dhofar Governorate in particular. The museum features several environments, each displaying a section that highlights the history of the region, such as Islamic culture, terminology and images. — ONA Al Ghassani explained that the museum's objectives are introducing the historical perspective of human cultural heritage, building a unique broad base for contemporary thought, and documenting all aspects of heritage within an integrated cultural project that describes the vital aspects of our ancient heritage. The museum provides means of facilitating visitors' enjoyment and discovery of the details of the scientific material, enabling them to explore these exhibits as they tour through the museum's halls using modern technological means for informational materials and valuable collections the details of which are available in four languages (Arabic, English, French and German). The museum also allows Omani craftsmen to display specialised traditional crafts, encouraging them and achieving professional and institutional integration. Dhofar Museum opens; to promote heritage and cultural tourism The museum features several environments each displaying a section that highlights the history of the region, such as Islamic culture, terminology and images. It also embodies aspects of the past of Dhofar Governorate, including the civilisations of Samahram, Al Baleed, and Ubar, and their important cultural, civilisational and commercial roles. It also highlights the historical maritime role of the Sultanate of Oman and its relations with ancient cultures and civilisations. The museum features coastal, rural, desert, and urban environments. It includes several sections that showcase the Samahram and Al Baleed civilisations, the Omani character, Dhofari culture, architectural heritage, traditional crafts, folk dances, hunting, the coconut tree, agricultural crops, Dhofari cuisine, traditional Dhofari clothing, Dhofari weapons, documents, manuscripts, photographs and coins. — ONA
Time Out Dubai
4 days ago
- Time Out Dubai
Stay at the luxurious Hawana Salalah Hotels while exploring Salalah's misty landscapes
Need to escape the heat? Say no more. Just book a flight to Salalah before September and you're golden. From now until September, temperatures in Salalah hover between a breezy 23 to 27 degrees – which means you can actually feel that coolness on your skin while soaking in the stunning greenery all around. Would you believe you don't even have to leave the Middle East for that? It's all thanks to the Khareef season, a rare weather shift in this part of the Arabian Peninsula that transforms the Omani city into a fog-kissed oasis, complete with rolling hills, mist-filled mornings and the kind of waterfalls you'll find hard to believe that it exists in this region. If you're thinking about where to check in while you're here, take a look at Hawana Salalah. Set in the Dhofar Governorate, this upscale resort-style destination has got everything from luxury stays to lush views, seasonal streams and even access to cultural landmarks. These include Wadi Darbat, Ayn Athum, and UNESCO-listed archaeological sites like Sumhuram and Al-Baleed, in addition to thrilling adventures in Mughsail's cliffs and its unique natural blowholes. Plus, it's part of a public-private partnership project that's all about giving back to the local economy and supporting sustainable tourism – so you're holidaying for a good cause too. On the offerings of the luxurious tourist destination, Ahmed Afifi, Hotel Manager of Salalah Rotana Resort, says, 'We take pride in our Dhofari heritage and work to share it with guests from the moment they arrive, through culinary arts, architectural design and the warm, genuine spirit of our staff. Our goal is to deliver experiences that exceed (guest) expectations.' Thankfully, getting here is easy with multiple flights heading to Salalah International Airport from Dubai (and most major GCC cities) via Air Arabia, SalamAir and flydubai. Book your stay at Hawana Salalah Hotels – call +968 2327 5748, email or visit
Observer
5 days ago
- Observer
Khareef Dhofar SEASON: Oman's Monsoon Miracle
Every year from June to September, Dhofar Governorate undergoes a breathtaking transformation that feels almost like a hidden miracle waiting to be discovered. While most of the country endures the intense heat of summer, Salalah, nestled along the southern coast, turns into a lush green paradise, thanks to the arrival of the Khareef Dhofar Season. Moisture-laden monsoon winds from the Indian Ocean bring light rain, thick fog and a cool mist that gently cloaks the mountains, valleys and plains. This unique weather pattern, unmatched in the Arabian Peninsula, transforms the arid terrain into a vibrant, tropical landscape — drawing nature lovers, photographers and curious travellers from all over the world. But Khareef Dhofar is more than just rainfall — it's a celebration of life. Dry, rocky cliffs burst into greenery, seasonal waterfalls cascade from hills and verdant meadows stretch across the land like velvet. Cows graze in open pastures, camels wander near misty roadsides and fruit-laden stalls brim with bananas, papayas and coconuts. Salalah becomes an unexpected tropical escape in the heart of the Middle East. Perhaps the most striking aspect of Khareef Dhofar is the dramatic weather shift. While the rest of the Gulf swelters, temperatures in Salalah drop significantly. The air becomes cool and fragrant; and the drizzle creates a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. Parks and picnic spots come alive with families and the winding coastal roads of Dhofar — wrapped in a dreamy fog — offer some of the most magical drives in Oman. Beyond its scenic beauty, Khareef Dhofar holds deep cultural and social significance. The annual Salalah Tourism Festival, timed with the monsoon season, is a major draw. It showcases traditional Omani music, dance, cuisine and crafts, bringing together locals and visitors to celebrate Dhofari heritage. Folk performances and artisan markets not only preserve traditions but also create vital economic opportunities for the community. Yet the true magic of Khareef Dhofar lies beyond festivals — the quiet hush of misty mornings, the sight of clouds embracing green hills and the simple joy of warm corn shared roadside. It's a time to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature and loved ones. For children, it's a chance to witness Oman's ecological diversity; for adults, a gentle reminder of the nation's rich natural legacy. Khareef Dhofar is more than a season. It's a story of resilience, rhythm and renewal. It reveals how even the harshest landscapes can host vibrant life, year after year. More than just a tourist draw, Khareef Dhofar Season symbolises a rare harmony — between people and place, tradition and modernity. It is a powerful celebration of Oman's enduring connection to the land.
Observer
7 days ago
- Observer
Dhofar blooms as khareef season brings new charm
Muscat: While much of the Gulf is engulfed in the peak of summer heat, southern Oman quietly welcomes its most beautiful guest: Khareef. But Dhofar's monsoon is unlike any other. It doesn't bring parched leaves or arid winds — instead, it arrives as a gentle whisper of mist and drizzle, waking the land into vibrant life, according to visitors. 'This is something out of a fairytale,' says Elise Kramer, a tourist from Germany visiting Dhofar for the first time. 'I read about khareef, but nothing prepared me for the serenity and surreal beauty I'm witnessing here.' According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information, over 820,000 tourists visited Dhofar during the 2024 khareef season — a 15% increase from the previous year. Of those, GCC nationals made up more than 65%, while international interest from Europe and Asia continues to rise. The temperate climate, lush hills and soft monsoon rains attract families, nature lovers and photographers alike, all eager to escape the searing summer elsewhere in the region. Fog-draped hills and softly gushing waterfalls are among Dhofar's most iconic scenes. Locations such as Wadi Darbat and Ayn Athum offer breathtaking experiences. Hala Morsi, a visitor from Cairo, said: 'The moment I stepped out of the airport and felt the cool breeze, I knew this place was special. I've never seen such rich greenery in the Gulf. It's peaceful, pure and soul-refreshing.' Data from the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism confirms that Salalah's sites are among the most visited during khareef, consistently drawing record numbers each year. No trip to Dhofar is complete without experiencing its ancient gift to the world: frankincense. This aromatic resin, harvested from native Boswellia trees, has been traded for millennia across the Middle East, Africa and Europe. At Salalah's traditional souqs, tourists can witness frankincense being burned, smell its earthy arom, and purchase raw resin or fragrant oils. Maria Lopez, a tourist from Spain, describes it as magical: 'It's like stepping back in time. The scent is powerful, sacred even. I bought several packs and oils to take back to Madrid. This isn't just a souvenir — it's history in a jar.' Tourism-linked sales of frankincense products saw a 30% increase in the last khareef season, reflecting its cultural significance and growing international demand. Khareef isn't only about misty mountains — it's also a celebration of Dhofari heritage. At Al Haffa Market, visitors are drawn to local handicrafts, spices and traditional clothing, all offered with a generous dose of Omani hospitality. Amani al Zubaidi from Saudi Arabia said: 'I loved the souqs — the colours, the people, the scents. You don't feel like a tourist here, you feel like a welcomed guest.' Cafés, boutique stays and seasonal festivals help bring Dhofar's cultural spirit to life during khareef, turning tourism into a truly immersive experience.
Muscat Daily
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
Dhofari traditions showcased at fashion fest in Russia
Salalah – Omani designers Hana bint Said al Maashani and Asfar bint Hamran Khamis participated in the 18th edition of the Linen Palette Fashion Festival in Plyos, Russia alongside designers and artists from around the world. Owner of a label called Lychee Dhofar, Asfar presented her collection 'Glory and Authenticity', which she described as inspired by Omani heritage and designed to reflect the evolution of traditional fashion in line with modern global trends. 'The collection is rooted in the traditional Dhofari identity. We used velvet fabric embroidered with zari threads and beads by hand, combining it with modern elements such as Swarovski crystals and motifs drawn from Omani culture,' she said. Models wore accessories traditionally associated with Omani women, including silver jewellery. Asfar said her collection aimed to promote Omani identity and foster global appreciation of its heritage through contemporary fashion. Asfar bint Hamran Khamis Designer Hana presented the latest line from her Rose Gallery called 'Global Fashion with an Omani Spirit'. The collection reimagined the traditional Dhofari dress using contemporary silhouettes and global fashion elements, while preserving its cultural authenticity. The participation of Gulf designers at the event was attributed by organisers and Russian officials to an effort to foster artistic and creative exchange between Russia and the Gulf states. Oman's presence at the festival was supported by Dr Mona al Mansouri, founder of Dar al Mansouri Fashion in the UAE, as part of her initiative to promote Gulf talent and highlight Arab identity on international platforms.
