Latest news with #DhofarKhareef2025
Muscat Daily
2 days ago
- Muscat Daily
Saudi tourism delegation explores Dhofar in promotional visit
By OUR CORRESPONDENT Salalah – As part of its ongoing efforts to promote the Dhofar Khareef 2025, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism organised an introductory trip for Saudi tourism agency representatives to Dhofar governorate from July 8 to 13. The initiative comes under the umbrella of the ministry's wider 'Make Your Summer Green' campaign, which targets Gulf markets to showcase Oman's unique summer tourism offerings—particularly the cool, lush appeal of Dhofar during the khareef season. The delegation toured various natural, historical, and cultural landmarks in and around Salalah, engaging with local experiences and tourism operators. The visit aimed to familiarise Saudi tourism stakeholders with Dhofar's potential as a destination for Gulf travelers, encouraging future cooperation in tourism promotion and package development. The ministry stressed that such trips help build cross-border tourism ties and position Oman – especially Dhofar – as a top regional choice for summer holidays, thanks to its cool climate, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. The 'Make Your Summer Green' campaign will continue throughout the season, with further tours planned from other Gulf countries.
Muscat Daily
14-06-2025
- Muscat Daily
Events, avenues announced for Dhofar Khareef 2025
Salalah – Dhofar Municipality has announced details of the Dhofar Khareef 2025 season, which will begin on June 21 and continue until September 20, with new events and upgraded facilities aimed at attracting more visitors. Dr Ahmed bin Mohsen al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, said the season will showcase Dhofar as an integrated tourist and cultural destination. Activities will be spread across five main locations: Ittin Square, Al Saada area, Awqad Park, Ittin Plain and Salalah Public Park. Each site will feature distinct events designed to reflect the region's natural and cultural diversity. The municipality confirmed that the venues have been prepared in cooperation with supporting institutions to ensure high standards and varied content. Dr Ahmed bin Mohsen al Ghassani at a press conference on Saturday Alongside the main sites, several other venues will host public and cultural activities, including the frankincense market, the 'Al Gharf' event at a Salalah farm, events at Raysut Beach, and artistic murals on Al Nahda Tower using modern visual displays. Additional events are planned in the wilayats of Taqah, Mirbat and Sadah, as well as at Al Hafa Beach Market and Samharam Village in Salalah. The season will also feature major sporting events such as the Salalah International Cycling Tour, the Dhofar International Drag Racing Championship, the Salalah Marathon and the Dhofar Khareef Traditional Weapons Competition. 'These aim to attract wider participation and position Dhofar as a destination for quality sports tourism.' Cultural activities include theatrical performances and seminars at Al Murooj Theatre in Salalah, with contributions from local and international writers and thinkers. Dhofar Municipality also plans to allocate dedicated space during the khareef season for small and medium enterprises, allowing entrepreneurs to present their products and promote local heritage as part of the visitor experience.
Tourism Breaking News
15-05-2025
- Tourism Breaking News
Dhofar region ready to welcome visitors for Khareef Season
Post Views: 94 The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism reaffirmed its readiness for Dhofar Khareef 2025, as part of its integrated national strategy to promote the season in coordination with public and private partners. Dhofar Governorate currently boasts 83 licensed hotel establishments, offering a total of 6,537 rooms, prepared to welcome tourists throughout the season. The 2025 Dhofar Khareef season will officially run from 21 June to 20 September, transforming the southern region of Oman into a lush and temperate destination. Known for its misty climate, rich greenery, and cultural ambiance, the season attracts more than one million visitors annually. The Ministry's efforts include participation in regional tourism exhibitions and campaigns across traditional media and social platforms. These efforts are further supported through collaborations with travel influencers and content creators, as well as the organization of familiarisation trips for travel agencies and media representatives from the Gulf and Arab regions. The Ministry is also leveraging its official digital channels to promote Oman's offerings and is working closely with domestic and international travel agencies to design attractive tourism packages. Oman continues to be recognized as one of the region's most diverse tourism destinations. The country offers dramatic natural contrasts—from towering mountains and sprawling deserts to long coastlines and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Sumhuram, Al-Baleed Archaeological Park, the Museum of the Land of Frankincense, and a number of historical forts. The government remains committed to strengthening tourism infrastructure and visitor services across all governorates. H.E. Dr. Al-Kharousi highlighted that this year's calendar will launch with the official astronomical start of the season and will include a rich mix of main and accompanying events across both established and newly enhanced venues to deliver exceptional experiences to visitors. Following its success last year at a new location, the Return of the Past event will return with a renewed format that embodies the soul of Omani heritage. Guests will enjoy live folk performances, bustling heritage markets, and displays of traditional crafts. The venue has undergone significant upgrades to enrich its historical atmosphere and provide an immersive experience. Additional enhancements are also planned to establish the venue as a long-term heritage attraction. Attin Square continues to grow as a major hub for cultural and entertainment activities. This year's program includes international shows, cultural performances, and a wide retail offering. Facilities include an open-air theatre, modern dining areas, children's entertainment zones, and updated laser and lighting shows—positioning the space as a premier entertainment destination.
Mid East Info
30-04-2025
- Mid East Info
Oman unveils Dhofar Khareef 2025 highlights at Arabian Travel Market - Middle East Business News and Information
The Oman Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, in collaboration with Dhofar Municipality, officially announced the much-anticipated Dhofar Khareef 2025 season during a press conference held on the sidelines of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai. The announcement was led by His Excellency Dr Ahmed bin Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, and His Excellency Azzan bin Qasim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Tourism at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, highlighting Oman's commitment to promoting one of the Arabian Peninsula's most unique tourism seasons to the world. Held annually from 21 June to 20 September, the Dhofar Khareef season transforms the southern region of Oman into a lush, verdant paradise, offering visitors moderate temperatures, misty landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. In 2024, the Khareef season recorded a 9% year-on-year increase in tourist arrivals, reaching approximately 1.048 million visitors, reflecting Dhofar's growing status as a premier regional and international tourism destination. During the press conference, His Excellency Dr Al Ghassani outlined the new and expanded activities enriching the visitor experience during Dhofar Khareef 2025. He emphasised that the season's main and accompanying events will be distributed across existing and newly developed sites, with diverse entertainment, cultural, and family-oriented attractions. Building on the success of its new location last year, 'Return of the Past' will have an expanded program showcasing the spirit of Oman's traditional life. Visitors will experience authentic folk performances, bustling heritage markets, and exhibitions of traditional crafts. Significant site development has enhanced the historical ambience, creating an immersive experience that blends heritage with modern amenities. Emerging as a key entertainment hub, Athens Square will host major international shows, cultural events, and shopping experiences. Upgraded facilities include an open-air theatre, integrated shopping avenues, modern gaming zones, and enhanced restaurant and café offerings. New lighting and laser shows will further elevate its appeal as a vibrant entertainment destination. Redesigned as a dedicated family entertainment centre, Awqad Park will introduce a refreshed identity with various activities designed for families and young visitors. Meanwhile, the Uptown Site at Ittin Plain will offer a natural retreat featuring outdoor recreational activities in a scenic environment. Set to become the epicentre for sports activities during Khareef, Salalah Public Park will host various tournaments and community sports events, with inclusive activities catering to all age groups and people of determination. A new addition to Dhofar's cultural scene, Al Murooj Theater will stage various cultural performances, including Omani, Gulf, and Arab theatrical productions, offering visitors a dynamic audiovisual cultural experience. His Excellency also indicated plans to extend Khareef events to coastal governorates, celebrating the unique microclimates influenced by the autumn rains with additional cultural, sporting, and commercial activities. Recognising the steady growth in visitor numbers, Dhofar Municipality has accelerated development projects across the Governorate to enhance the tourist experience. In collaboration with government and private sector partners, efforts include developing natural viewpoints, upgrading tourist sites, beautifying public spaces, and road infrastructure enhancements. Today, Dhofar Governorate boasts 83 licensed hotels offering 6,537 rooms across various categories, with several new hospitality projects set to open in 2025. These expansions will significantly bolster the region's capacity to accommodate the expected rise in domestic and international tourists. His Excellency Azzan bin Qasim Al Busaidi outlined the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism's multi-faceted promotional campaign designed to elevate Dhofar Khareef's profile on the global stage. During the press conference, he highlighted key initiatives, such as participation at ATM 2025 to engage directly with international tourism stakeholders and media, alongside broad advertising campaigns across leading Arab media outlets and specialised travel platforms. The Ministry is also implementing targeted social media promotions, electronic advertising, and collaborations with influential content creators to raise awareness across key markets to enhance digital reach. In addition, the Ministry is organising a series of familiarisation trips for international travel agencies and media representatives, providing firsthand experiences of Dhofar's diverse offerings. Tailored tourism packages are also being developed in cooperation with local and international tour operators, ensuring seamless travel experiences that link Oman's unique destinations with global source markets and reinforce the Sultanate's appeal as a must-visit destination. His Excellency Al Busaidi said: 'Our objective is to position Dhofar as a world-class destination that offers a unique combination of nature, culture, and heritage. We aim to attract visitors seeking authentic, high-quality travel experiences through our targeted campaigns and expanded tourism offerings.' While the Khareef season remains an integral part of Dhofar's tourism calendar, the Governorate also offers a wealth of experiences year-round. The Sarab and Winter seasons have seen increasing popularity, attracting nearly half a million visitors annually thanks to Dhofar's temperate climate and diverse natural landscapes. Visitors can explore Dhofar's breathtaking beaches, mountain ranges, desert expanses, and fertile agricultural valleys. In addition to natural attractions, the Governorate is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Al Baleed Archaeological Park, Samharam Archaeological Park, and the Museum of the Land of Frankincense, underscoring Oman's rich cultural legacy. In preparation for the 2025 season, public and private sector entities are working together to ensure that all facilities, services, and tourism offerings are fully equipped to meet the needs of visitors worldwide. With consistent year-on-year growth and expanded tourism offerings, Dhofar is poised for another record-breaking season in 2025. Last year, the 9% increase in visitor numbers highlights the Governorate's growing importance within Oman's broader tourism strategy, contributing to economic diversification and enhancing Oman's reputation as a leading destination in the Arabian Gulf. As Oman showcases Dhofar's exceptional potential to global audiences at ATM 2025, the Sultanate reaffirms its commitment to delivering sustainable, authentic, and world-class tourism experiences for visitors from the GCC and beyond.
Tourism Breaking News
29-04-2025
- Tourism Breaking News
Oman unveils Dhofar Khareef 2025 highlights at Arabian Travel Market
Post Views: 48 The Oman Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, in collaboration with Dhofar Municipality, officially announced the much-anticipated Dhofar Khareef 2025 season during a press conference held on the sidelines of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai. Held annually from 21 June to 20 September, the Dhofar Khareef season transforms the southern region of Oman into a lush, verdant paradise, offering visitors moderate temperatures, misty landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. In 2024, the Khareef season recorded a 9% year-on-year increase in tourist arrivals, reaching approximately 1.048 million visitors, reflecting Dhofar's growing status as a premier regional and international tourism destination. The announcement was led by His Excellency Dr Ahmed bin Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, and His Excellency Azzan bin Qasim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Tourism at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, highlighting Oman's commitment to promoting one of the Arabian Peninsula's most unique tourism seasons to the world. During the press conference, His Excellency Dr Al Ghassani outlined the new and expanded activities enriching the visitor experience during Dhofar Khareef 2025. He emphasised that the season's main and accompanying events will be distributed across existing and newly developed sites, with diverse entertainment, cultural, and family-oriented attractions. Building on the success of its new location last year, 'Return of the Past' will have an expanded program showcasing the spirit of Oman's traditional life. Visitors will experience authentic folk performances, bustling heritage markets, and exhibitions of traditional crafts. Significant site development has enhanced the historical ambience, creating an immersive experience that blends heritage with modern amenities. Emerging as a key entertainment hub, Athens Square will host major international shows, cultural events, and shopping experiences. Upgraded facilities include an open-air theatre, integrated shopping avenues, modern gaming zones, and enhanced restaurant and café offerings. New lighting and laser shows will further elevate its appeal as a vibrant entertainment destination. Redesigned as a dedicated family entertainment centre, Awqad Park will introduce a refreshed identity with various activities designed for families and young visitors. Meanwhile, the Uptown Site at Ittin Plain will offer a natural retreat featuring outdoor recreational activities in a scenic environment. Set to become the epicentre for sports activities during Khareef, Salalah Public Park will host various tournaments and community sports events, with inclusive activities catering to all age groups and people of determination. A new addition to Dhofar's cultural scene, Al Murooj Theater will stage various cultural performances, including Omani, Gulf, and Arab theatrical productions, offering visitors a dynamic audiovisual cultural experience. His Excellency also indicated plans to extend Khareef events to coastal governorates, celebrating the unique microclimates influenced by the autumn rains with additional cultural, sporting, and commercial activities. Recognising the steady growth in visitor numbers, Dhofar Municipality has accelerated development projects across the Governorate to enhance the tourist experience. In collaboration with government and private sector partners, efforts include developing natural viewpoints, upgrading tourist sites, beautifying public spaces, and road infrastructure enhancements. Today, Dhofar Governorate boasts 83 licensed hotels offering 6,537 rooms across various categories, with several new hospitality projects set to open in 2025. These expansions will significantly bolster the region's capacity to accommodate the expected rise in domestic and international tourists. His Excellency Azzan bin Qasim Al Busaidi outlined the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism's multi-faceted promotional campaign designed to elevate Dhofar Khareef's profile on the global stage. During the press conference, he highlighted key initiatives, such as participation at ATM 2025 to engage directly with international tourism stakeholders and media, alongside broad advertising campaigns across leading Arab media outlets and specialised travel platforms. The Ministry is also implementing targeted social media promotions, electronic advertising, and collaborations with influential content creators to raise awareness across key markets to enhance digital reach. In addition, the Ministry is organising a series of familiarisation trips for international travel agencies and media representatives, providing firsthand experiences of Dhofar's diverse offerings. Tailored tourism packages are also being developed in cooperation with local and international tour operators, ensuring seamless travel experiences that link Oman's unique destinations with global source markets and reinforce the Sultanate's appeal as a must-visit destination. His Excellency Al Busaidi said: 'Our objective is to position Dhofar as a world-class destination that offers a unique combination of nature, culture, and heritage. We aim to attract visitors seeking authentic, high-quality travel experiences through our targeted campaigns and expanded tourism offerings.' While the Khareef season remains an integral part of Dhofar's tourism calendar, the Governorate also offers a wealth of experiences year-round. The Sarab and Winter seasons have seen increasing popularity, attracting nearly half a million visitors annually thanks to Dhofar's temperate climate and diverse natural landscapes. Visitors can explore Dhofar's breathtaking beaches, mountain ranges, desert expanses, and fertile agricultural valleys. In addition to natural attractions, the Governorate is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Al Baleed Archaeological Park, Samharam Archaeological Park, and the Museum of the Land of Frankincense, underscoring Oman's rich cultural legacy. In preparation for the 2025 season, public and private sector entities are working together to ensure that all facilities, services, and tourism offerings are fully equipped to meet the needs of visitors worldwide. With consistent year-on-year growth and expanded tourism offerings, Dhofar is poised for another record-breaking season in 2025. Last year, the 9% increase in visitor numbers highlights the Governorate's growing importance within Oman's broader tourism strategy, contributing to economic diversification and enhancing Oman's reputation as a leading destination in the Arabian Gulf. As Oman showcases Dhofar's exceptional potential to global audiences at ATM 2025, the Sultanate reaffirms its commitment to delivering sustainable, authentic, and world-class tourism experiences for visitors from the GCC and beyond.
