Wadi Darbat comes alive as Dhofar Khareef visitors return

SALALAH, JUNE 24
At Wadi Darbat, one of Dhofar’s most popular natural attractions, the early days of Khareef are carrying two stories at once: visitors returning for the season, and local residents watching the skies as the wadi waits for heavier rain.
During a field visit, young Omani entrepreneurs were seen preparing boats, organising ticketing arrangements and checking safety measures ahead of an expected rise in visitors over the coming weeks.
Among them was Abdullah bin Amer al Maashani, who operates boats at Wadi Darbat as part of a group of young Omanis engaged in seasonal tourism activity. He said preparations were focused on organising the area, arranging tickets and ensuring that families can enjoy boat rides safely.
The activity reflects the economic importance of Khareef for small local businesses. For many young Omanis, the season provides a short but valuable commercial window, particularly in recreation, food services, transport, local productsand visitor support.
But for residents of Wadi Darbat, the season is not measured only by visitor numbers. It is also measured by rainfall, water levels, grazing conditions and the movement of livestock.
One resident said the water level in the wadi had not yet reached the level usually expected during the season, adding that residents hoped further rainfall would improve conditions in the coming weeks.
He said local families had already moved their cows and camels towards the coast of Taqah to protect the animals from seasonal mosquitoes and flies.
The practice, he said, is not new. It is a habit inherited from grandparents and remains part of the local rhythm of life during Khareef.
“After the rainy season ends, around the end of September, we usually move back to Wadi Darbat,” he said, noting that livestock ownership and seasonal movement remain part of family heritage in the area.
His account gives a deeper picture of Khareef beyond the visitor experience. TURN TO P3