FOOD SPICES UP KHAREEF

Khareef in Dhofar is not just about mist-covered mountains and lush green landscapes. This season, visitors are also being invited to savour the governorate through its distinctive flavours, with food emerging as an increasingly important part of the tourism experience.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT) is putting food at the heart of the Khareef Dhofar Season 2026 experience through its 'Omani Taste Journey', an initiative designed to allow visitors to discover the governorate through its flavours, landscapes and traditions.

Launched in cooperation with Mwasalat, the open-top bus offers visitors a journey through Salalah while enjoying the cool Khareef breeze and authentic Omani hospitality through food. The initiative features two routes: the first connects Al Haffa, Al Baleed and Dahariz Beach, while the second runs between Al Haffa, Al Gharif and Al Nahda Tower, giving visitors an opportunity to experience different parts of the city while enjoying the seasonal atmosphere.
The initiative reflects a wider effort by the government and local communities to promote food tourism and showcase the authentic flavours of Dhofar. For visitors, traditional dishes are an important part of understanding the governorate, with madhbi, mashakeek, ma’ajeen and Omani halwa among the foods attracting attention.

Nasser al Harbi, a Saudi visitor, highlighted the importance of experiencing Dhofari cuisine during Khareef, pointing to the many restaurants serving traditional dishes across Salalah. He also noted the popularity of Omani halwa at food and event locations.
Meanwhile, Omani chefs and entrepreneurs are finding innovative ways to turn food preparation into entertainment. Chef and content creator Ahmed al Saadi introduced his 'Chicken Amusement Park' at Al Hashi Camp, an unconventional concept designed to make the cooking and grilling process part of the visitor experience.

The concept quickly went viral on social media, attracting widespread attention, although it was temporarily suspended by the Dhofar Municipality to address health and food-safety requirements. The development highlighted the need for culinary innovation to go hand in hand with professional safety and operational standards.
Organisational behaviour researcher Kamla al Rahbi said, 'Al Saadi’s creativity has transformed the cooking process itself into an attraction rather than simply offering a finished meal. The temporary closure was a precautionary measure to address food-safety concerns, and the concept can be further developed while maintaining the highest standards.'

From traditional family recipes to innovative culinary experiences, food is becoming an increasingly important part of Khareef tourism.
Together, government initiatives, local businesses, chefs and communities are helping position Dhofar as a destination that can be explored not only through its scenery, but through its distinctive tastes and hospitality.