Latest news with #ReturnofthePast
Muscat Daily
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
Omani heritage showcased at ‘Return of the Past' in Salalah
Salalah – Dhofar Municipality has launched a cultural event called 'Return of the Past' in Al Saadah, Salalah as part of Dhofar Khareef Season 2025. Running till August 31, the event will highlight Omani heritage and aims to reinforce national identity through an immersive cultural experience. Designed to reflect the three main environments of Dhofar – urban, rural and bedouin – the event presents live simulations of traditional life. Customs, professions and crafts are demonstrated in a contemporary setting to connect different generations to the country's heritage. Visitors can explore a heritage market showcasing Omani crafts and handmade products, a section offering traditional foods, and a village theatre hosting daily performances of folk arts such as Al Bar'ah and Al Azi. Traditional games and evening gatherings form part of the interactive experiences on site. Several governorates are taking part in the event this year, including North Batinah, North Sharqiyah, South Sharqiyah and Dakhliyah. Their participation includes live shows and rural scenes representing village life and regional cultural diversity. The 'Return of the Past' site saw significant infrastructure development ahead of the season. Enhancements include an expanded main theatre, a model of Muttrah Souq with its iconic alleys, a dedicated space for bedouin traditions, and new zones for heritage sports, storytelling and traditional cooking demonstrations. A section has also been allocated for artisan families to display and sell local food and crafts, offering economic opportunities for the community. 'Return of the Past' continues to be a key cultural attraction during khareef, offering visitors insights into Oman's environment, traditions and community heritage through inclusive and interactive displays.
Observer
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Dhofar Municipality launches ‘Return of the Past' for Khareef Dhofar Season
SALALAH: With a refreshed design that embraces heritage and Omani identity, Dhofar Municipality has launched the 'Return of the Past' event in the Al Saadah area, as one of the key attractions of the Khareef Dhofar Season 2025. The event runs from July 10 to August 31, offering an immersive cultural experience that revives the essence of traditional Omani life from Dhofar's diverse environments and across the Sultanate of Oman. 'Return of the Past' brings to life the memory of Dhofar — its people, culture and customs — through a faithful recreation of the governorate's three traditional settings: the urban, rural and Bedouin environments. The event presents these lifestyles in engaging ways that connect younger generations to their heritage, bridging the past and present. Visitors can explore the traditional souq corridors featuring handmade crafts and artisan products created by skilled local hands. A popular corner offers authentic Omani dishes in a nostalgic setting that recalls the aromas and ambience of the past. The site also includes a village theatre that hosts daily performances of the traditional Al Bara'a dance by local folk troupes, alongside evening gatherings and interactive displays of traditional Omani games, encouraging family and child participation in a warm, communal atmosphere. The site hosts daily performances of the traditional Al Bara'a dance by local folk troupes This year, the event also features the participation of several governorates, including Al Batinah North, Al Sharqiyah North & South and Al Dakhiliyah, each showcasing their cultural heritage throughout the season. Live performances of traditional arts, chants and theatrical sketches capture the rich folkloric diversity of Oman and offer glimpses into village life of earlier times. Significant enhancements have been introduced this year. The main theatre has been expanded to accommodate larger crowds, responding to growing daily attendance. A recreated version of the iconic Muttrah Souq allows visitors to experience its narrow alleyways and historic charm, complete with authentic goods and traditional wares. New features include simulations of heritage sports, a dedicated Bedouin theatre space with dramatic scenes of desert life and a storytelling corner where oral traditions and folk tales from Dhofar are presented in a captivating format that blends entertainment with education. Visitors will also enjoy live cooking displays of popular Omani dishes such as 'Aseedah, Harees, Quras and Luqaimat, prepared using traditional utensils and woodfire cooking methods. A dedicated area supports home-based businesses in presenting their craft and food products, further enriching the event's cultural offering. With its authentic portrayal of Dhofar's traditional environments and broad national participation, 'Return of the Past' stands out as a leading destination within the Khareef Dhofar Season 2025, drawing locals and tourists alike to celebrate Oman's living heritage.
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.
Observer
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Khareef Dhofar from June 21 with diverse tourism, cultural experiences
DUBAI: The activities of Khareef Dhofar Season 2025 will begin on June 21 and continue until September 20, coinciding with the astronomical start of the khareef season, according to Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality. He revealed that Heritage Village will be transformed into a global village on similar lines such as Khan Al Khalili (Egypt), Souq Al Hamidiya (Syria) and Souq Waqif (Qatar). During a press conference on the sidelines of its participation at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, the Sultanate of Oman unveiled the activities and events of Khareef Dhofar Season 2025, featuring a variety of tourism and cultural experiences. Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, stated that this year's main and accompanying events will be distributed across both existing sites undergoing continuous development and new locations, offering visitors exceptional experiences. He explained that the "Return of the Past" activities in this edition will feature a new approach reflecting Omani authenticity and traditional life from across the Sultanate of Oman's governorates. These will include folk art performances, heritage markets and handicraft displays. He noted that last year's event achieved significant success and widespread acclaim from visitors and participants. He added that the event's site has undergone comprehensive upgrades to enhance its heritage character, blending the charm of the past with the spirit of the present. He affirmed that 'Ateen Square' will be a hub for major entertainment events and performances, building on the remarkable success of previous editions that attracted large audiences. The site will serve as a global events centre, featuring an integrated shopping area, an open-air theatre, a modern games zone, new light and laser shows and contemporary dining facilities — solidifying its position as a premier cultural and entertainment destination. Dr Al Ghassani pointed out that Awqad Park will be a family entertainment centre with activities tailored for children and parents, featuring a distinct theme this year. Meanwhile, 'Up Town' in Ateen Plain will debut with diverse events catering to all age groups. He noted that Salalah Public Park will host various sports activities throughout the khareef season, with broad participation from all age groups and people with disabilities. 'Al Murooj Theatre' will be dedicated to cultural events, featuring local, Gulf and Arab theatrical performances. The municipality is expanding events to include coastal wilayats affected by the khareef season, with diverse cultural, sports and commercial activities. Development projects — such as enhancing natural viewpoints, tourist sites, road paving and urban beautification — have been implemented in collaboration with government and private entities to improve visitor experiences and tourism infrastructure, he further added. On his turn, Azzan bin Qasim al Busaidy, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, affirmed the ministry's readiness to promote Khareef Dhofar Season 2025 through various programmes under a coordinated plan with relevant authorities. He added that several new tourism and hotel facilities will open this year in Dhofar, where 83 licensed hotels — offering 6,537 rooms — are already prepared to welcome visitors. The ministry has launched promotional campaigns for the season, starting with its participation at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, including a press conference to announce key events. Marketing efforts include media campaigns, social media promotions, direct outreach in Gulf and regional markets, digital ads, and familiarisation trips for travel agencies, media delegations and influencers, he pointed out. He explained that special tourism packages have been designed in collaboration with local and international travel companies to enhance visitor experiences and boost inbound tourism by connecting Omani tourism entities with global markets. Government and private entities prepare annually to receive tourists during the khareef season, providing necessary services and facilities. According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information, visitor numbers to Dhofar during the 2024 khareef season rose by 9%, reaching approximately 1.048 million tourists. - ONA
