TAQAH: The wilayat of Taqah is a popular tourist destination in Dhofar Governorate during the Khareef season. It is characterised by its diverse terrain and geological features, including mountainous regions, water springs, caves, creeks, and silver beaches. Taqah also boasts numerous historical landmarks that shed light on its rich civilization.
Located along the coastal strip of the Governorate, east of Salalah, Taqah has a population of 21,487 people, living in over 153 neighbourhoods and population centres. Taqah is known for its fishing industry, and its sardine catches are used for animal feed and agricultural fertiliers.
The wilayat also has several ancient archaeological sites and distinct tourist attractions.
The ancient city of Samhuram is one of the most notable archaeological sites in Taqah dating back to 3rd millennium BC. Another notable site is Taqah Castle located in the heart of the City and is currently undergoing maintenance. Taqah is also known for its water springs, which give rise to magnificent waterfalls during Khareef. The wilayat is also home to various cave structures, some of which can be visited by adventure-minded tourists.
Wadi Darbat is one of the most significant wadis in Dhofar. It is also known for its picturesque landscapes, lush vegetation and large trees, including Sidr trees. The valley is a natural garden with captivating scenery.
Taqah also boasts a range of prominent crafts, cottage industries, and traditional arts. Fishing, livestock rearing, honey extraction, dairy production, and carpentry are among the most noteworthy crafts. Industries such as leather, palm frond weaving, fishing net production, handicrafts, sewing, and embroidery also thrive here.
The municipal council in Taqah has emphasised the importance of preserving environmental cleanliness and avoiding damage to green areas and public facilities. They have also highlighted risks associated with swimming in the sea and water springs during the Khareef.
Said al Mashani, a prominent figure in the wilayat, says Dhofar is an ideal year-round tourist destination, owing to its diverse terrain and abundance of captivating sites and distinctive attractions.
In particular, the wilayat also includes large mosques, historical buildings, and archaeological villages dating back to three thousand years BC, and castles dating back to 19th century AD. Its picturesque settings vary from the soft sand beaches to desert expanses, wadis, towering mountains, and water springs in the hinterlands.
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