SALALAH: Families visiting southern Oman during the annual khareef season are spending more on accommodation, groceries, restaurants and fuel, offering early signs of increased economic activity, although official visitor data is yet to confirm broader trends.
The khareef season, a climatic phenomenon unique to the Arabian Peninsula, transforms Dhofar’s mountains and landscapes between June and September as moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea bring mist, drizzle and cooler temperatures. The season attracts thousands of visitors from across the region seeking relief from the summer heat.
Khalid al Maawali, who travelled to Dhofar with his family, said they rented an apartment for nearly two weeks, allowing them to explore the governorate at a relaxed pace while supporting local businesses through grocery shopping, restaurant visits and travel to tourist attractions.
“The quality of apartments has improved, and there are clear changes in roads and services,” Al Maawali told Observer.
He said access to daily essentials in different areas made longer stays more convenient for families.
Said al Kathiri, a meat and livestock trader in Dhofar, said demand for meat products has increased during the season, driven by both visitors and restaurants.
“Demand for meat products has increased, both from restaurants and visitors,” he said, adding that available supplies were sufficient to meet market needs.
The accounts provide individual examples of activity on the ground rather than confirmation of a wider economic trend. The National Centre for Statistics and Information had not released visitor figures for the 2026 khareef season at the time of publication.
Last year, Dhofar’s khareef season attracted more than 1.07 million visitors, recording a 2.1 per cent increase compared with 2024.
Dhofar Municipality has announced 125 cultural, artistic, sporting and entertainment events during this year’s season, which runs from June 21 to September 21. Activities are being held across Salalah and other wilayats, including Taqah, Mirbat, Sadah, Samharam and Al Mughsail, with the aim of expanding visitor movement beyond traditional tourist areas.
Air connectivity has also been strengthened for the season. The Civil Aviation Authority said Oman Air is expected to provide around 330,000 seats to Salalah during khareef 2026, compared with 313,000 seats in 2025. SalamAir is expected to add another 190,844 seats.
The season is also attracting first-time visitors.
Abu Layan, a Jordanian visitor from Dubai, said he was impressed by Dhofar’s natural beauty despite arriving before some waterfalls reached their peak seasonal flow.
“This is my first visit, and I was amazed by the beauty of Dhofar,” he said, adding that he would recommend the destination to family and friends.
Early indications from visitors and businesses suggest positive momentum for the khareef season, with longer stays, increased demand and expanded activities contributing to local economic activity.
Official figures, when released, will provide a clearer picture of whether improved air capacity, wider events and tourism initiatives are translating into broader economic gains for Dhofar.
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