Wadi Darbat to be illuminated with 6-km LED lighting
Published: 05:06 PM,Jun 30,2025 | EDITED : 09:06 PM,Jun 30,2025
SALALAH, June 30
Wadi Darbat, one of Dhofar Governorate’s most iconic natural destinations, is set to receive a major upgrade with the installation of a 6-kilometre LED lighting system, aimed at enhancing visitor experience during the peak khareef season.
According to municipal officials, the project involves the installation of 150 lamp posts fitted with 180-watt energy-efficient LED lights. As of this week, approximately 85 per cent of the foundational works have been completed. The full system is scheduled to be operational by July 8, 2025.
The lighting initiative is part of a broader plan by Dhofar Municipality to improve infrastructure, accessibility and public safety in key tourism zones. Once completed, the illuminated stretch will enable safer evening visits, extend operating hours for small businesses, and add a new visual dimension to the valley’s natural appeal.
Nestled between mountain ridges and seasonal waterfalls, Wadi Darbat lies roughly 40 km northeast of Salalah. It is one of the most photographed and visited locations in Oman during the khareef (monsoon) season, which typically runs from late June to early September. The valley transforms into a lush, green paradise with flowing streams, mist-covered hills, and vibrant biodiversity, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
Each year, thousands of visitors travel to Wadi Darbat to experience its unique climate and scenic trails. The site is also home to seasonal markets and pop-up businesses, many of which are operated by local families and small entrepreneurs.
Enhancing tourism infrastructure, particularly in nature-based and heritage-rich destinations like Dhofar, is central to national efforts to attract more visitors and support local job creation.
By offering safer and more enjoyable evening access, the new lighting system is expected to increase footfall during the cooler evening hours — benefiting hospitality, transport and food vendors alike.
Dhofar Municipality is continuing to invest in similar public service upgrades across the governorate, including rest areas, walking paths, digital payment systems and waste management services.
The khareef season remains a vital component of Oman’s domestic tourism economy, with Salalah International Airport seeing a surge in arrivals and accommodation occupancy reaching peak levels during July and August.
Wadi Darbat, one of Dhofar Governorate’s most iconic natural destinations, is set to receive a major upgrade with the installation of a 6-kilometre LED lighting system, aimed at enhancing visitor experience during the peak khareef season.
According to municipal officials, the project involves the installation of 150 lamp posts fitted with 180-watt energy-efficient LED lights. As of this week, approximately 85 per cent of the foundational works have been completed. The full system is scheduled to be operational by July 8, 2025.
The lighting initiative is part of a broader plan by Dhofar Municipality to improve infrastructure, accessibility and public safety in key tourism zones. Once completed, the illuminated stretch will enable safer evening visits, extend operating hours for small businesses, and add a new visual dimension to the valley’s natural appeal.
Nestled between mountain ridges and seasonal waterfalls, Wadi Darbat lies roughly 40 km northeast of Salalah. It is one of the most photographed and visited locations in Oman during the khareef (monsoon) season, which typically runs from late June to early September. The valley transforms into a lush, green paradise with flowing streams, mist-covered hills, and vibrant biodiversity, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
Each year, thousands of visitors travel to Wadi Darbat to experience its unique climate and scenic trails. The site is also home to seasonal markets and pop-up businesses, many of which are operated by local families and small entrepreneurs.
Enhancing tourism infrastructure, particularly in nature-based and heritage-rich destinations like Dhofar, is central to national efforts to attract more visitors and support local job creation.
By offering safer and more enjoyable evening access, the new lighting system is expected to increase footfall during the cooler evening hours — benefiting hospitality, transport and food vendors alike.
Dhofar Municipality is continuing to invest in similar public service upgrades across the governorate, including rest areas, walking paths, digital payment systems and waste management services.
The khareef season remains a vital component of Oman’s domestic tourism economy, with Salalah International Airport seeing a surge in arrivals and accommodation occupancy reaching peak levels during July and August.