Shopkeepers in Dhofar region, especially those in Salalah, are hopeful of making the most of the Khareef season as the region known for its cool climate was open to tourists who have taken at least one dose of covid-19 vaccine.
The southern tip of the Sultanate, blessed with natural abundance, had reported a relatively higher number of cases but it was brought under control and businesses were allowed to open to the public under Covid protocol.
"Those who run business in the souq and outside have been badly affected by the pandemic and all our Eid seasons were either under lockdown or had no sales as people feared to come out," said Mohammed Rafeeque, an expatriate vendor, told the Observer.
Besides the two Eid seasons for vendors in Salalah, the Khareef season which lasts for nearly 3 months is yet another period when they welcome both foreign and domestic travellers. But the pandemic has spoiled the party for the second year in a row.
"Souq is slightly enlivened these days as people have started visiting the major markets and it is a sight that small vendors in this region have wanted to see since the last two years," said Nasser Sonic Peringathur, a businessman and social worker in Salalah.
"Business is really affected. Flats and apartments were leased by agents but they too have been affected badly. Hope this Khareef would bring in a change," Nasser said.
"We at the souk get up each day with hopes of a better day as visitors who have taken vaccination were allowed to visit the region. I'm optimistic that we can make good business prior to Eid within the Covid protocols," Saifudheen, another vendor said.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
