3 days ago
Tourists flock to Dhofar, fueling local trade and enterprise
Salalah – Dhofar is witnessing increased commercial activity across its markets and shopping centres during the 2025 khareef season, driven by a surge in visitor numbers. The uptick in tourism is supporting the local economy and strengthening both the retail and hospitality sectors.
Shoppers are turning out in large numbers at traditional markets and modern malls. Retailers of handicrafts and local delicacies are reporting brisk business, alongside high demand for restaurants, cafes, hotels and leisure services.
Small and medium-sized enterprise owners say the season presents a key opportunity to boost sales and visibility. They emphasised the importance of promoting national products to meet the expectations of a diverse tourist base.
Nour bint Ali al Yafaei, owner of Bint al Janoub, said her business draws on more than three decades of experience in producing incense and perfumes using Dhofari ingredients. 'We opened our first branch in 2020 in Salalah and the second in Al Hafa in 2024 to meet growing demand, especially during khareef when tourists seek out gifts,' she said.
In the gifts and confectioneries segment, Do Chocolate and Flowers has seen a spike in demand. Its range of luxury chocolates, floral arrangements and seasonal offerings continues to attract customers. Owner Rami bin Muslim al Kathiri said his business model reflects the importance of adapting to tourist seasons while contributing to the local retail economy.
Aqeel bin Alawi al Marzaa, founder of Mecca Perfumes, said his business is rooted in Oman's frankincense heritage. With more than 15 branches across the country, the company operates a dedicated factory for frankincense oil extraction and exports, along with integrated production lines. 'We have developed over 150 aromatic products. Tourists are especially drawn to traditional perfumes blended with natural ingredients,' he added.
The food sector is also benefitting from the seasonal upswing. Al Hosni Omani Sweets, which has been producing traditional sweets for decades, now runs more than ten branches in Oman and several others in GCC countries. Founder Tariq bin Salem al Hosni observed that tourists are particularly drawn to Omani halwa and often seek insights into its preparation. 'Halwa remains a symbol of Omani hospitality and sees strong demand during the tourist season,' he said, adding that the business once earned a Guinness World Record for baking the largest cake in the shape of Oman's map.
Tourists and residents agree that the khareef season has helped transform Dhofar into a vibrant commercial hub. Hilal bin Khalaf al Shariqi said local enterprises enrich the tourism experience and called for institutional support to ensure their growth.
'The best thing about the Hafa Beach Market is the blend of heritage and modernity,' said visitor Abdullah bin Salem al Ghaithi. 'Perfumes, incense, sweets and handicrafts occupy the space creating a unique atmosphere, with light rain adding to the charm.'
Majid bin Abdullah al Shariqi observed an increase in demand for seasonal clothing and tropical fruits such as coconut, papaya, pomegranate, banana and mango, as well as camping and travel supplies. He said khareef marks a major shift in local trade patterns.
Abdullah bin Amer al Aisaei, a visitor from the UAE, said the quality of local products and the organisation of Salalah's markets, especially the Hafa Beach Market, stand out. He praised the clarity of pricing and oversight by local authorities. 'But above all, it's the cool, pleasant weather that makes Dhofar a unique destination at this time of year.'
