For decades, Khareef has drawn visitors to Salalah with the promise of mist-covered mountains, lush landscapes and cool weather.
In 2026, however, Dhofar’s summer attraction is taking on a new identity, blending its natural appeal with creative landmarks, entertainment and experiences designed for a new generation of visitors.
One of the season’s most unexpected attractions is a miniature London at Ittin Square.
Complete with replicas of Big Ben and the classic red telephone booth, the installation has added an unusual urban touch to the mountains of Dhofar. Artificial snow falling around the mini landmarks has made the scene even more surreal, prompting visitors to joke that they have travelled from Salalah to London.
The snow experience features two night shows, at 9 pm and 10:30 pm, and quickly gained attention online, with videos of the snowy spectacle attracting visitors eager to experience the unusual scene for themselves.
“Every year, there are new ideas. Omani youth are creative when they are given the opportunity and support,” said Ahmed al Ghaithi, a visitor to Salalah.
Adding another new dimension to the season, Salalah Eye, which opened on August 15, is giving visitors a new vantage point to experience Dhofar. The observation wheel features 30 air-conditioned, thermally insulated cabins, each accommodating up to six people. A full rotation takes between eight and 12 minutes, with views extending up to 42 kilometres horizontally in clear weather.
For blogger Reem al Harthi, the attraction is among the highlights of Khareef Dhofar Season 2026, offering visitors the chance to see the landscape from above.
Meanwhile, Al Gharif is demonstrating how traditional agriculture can become a modern tourism experience. The eco-tourism destination combines farms, gardens, cafés, horses, local heritage and outdoor recreation, transforming an agricultural setting into a place for visitors to spend time and explore.
Its latest addition is free Wi-Fi, introduced through a partnership with Awasr to support youth-led businesses, facilitate their digital operations and enhance the visitor experience.
Social media influencer Maher al Sulaimi described the recent developments and initiatives across Salalah as one of the biggest changes in Khareef tourism.
He noted that the city is evolving from a destination visited primarily for its weather and natural scenery into one offering a diverse tourism product throughout the day, from nature, adventures, farms and beaches in the morning to cafés and restaurants in the afternoon, followed by a growing range of evening events and promenades.
The evolution suggests that Khareef tourism is no longer defined solely by nature. In 2026, Dhofar is building a broader tourism experience where nature, innovation, culture and entertainment meet.
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