29-07-2025
Frankincense Market in Salalah highlights Dhofar's heritage
Salalah – The Frankincense Market for artisanal families at Al Hafa Beach in Salalah held as part of 2025 Dhofar Khareef festivities is attracting a large number of visitors.
Organised by Dhofar Municipality, the market supports over 300 artisanal families and small businesses from across Oman. It features a variety of handicrafts, traditional Omani foods and locally produced goods, offering visitors a glimpse into the cultural and social fabric of Dhofar.
This year, the event has seen several upgrades – expanded display areas, improved public facilities and redesigned stalls modelled on traditional architecture. The enhancements aim to improve visitor experience and enhance the market's role in preserving and promoting heritage.
Salem bin Abdullah Fadhel, supervisor of the market, said the scale and diversity of participation this year reflect the support extended by Dhofar Municipality. 'This is not just a market, but a cultural platform that showcases Dhofar's heritage,' he said.
Products on display include handmade palm-frond items, incense burners, frankincense products and a variety of traditional Omani foods prepared by local families.
Daily performances are staged from 4pm to midnight, featuring folk arts such as Al Habut, Al Bar'ah and Al Madima, as well as children's shows and musical sessions by Omani performers.
The market will remain open till the end of the khareef season, reinforcing its role as a cultural and tourism destination while contributing to the local economy and supporting community-based enterprises.
