The ongoing Khareef Dhofar 2024 season is anticipated to attract more than one million visitors, setting a new record that highlights the region's increasing popularity as a top tourist destination.
Preparations for this year's celebrations, which began on June 21 and will last for three months, are well underway, offering a wide range of attractions and activities for guests.
According to Dr. Ahmed bin Mohsin Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, early preparations have been made with significant efforts to improve various tourism sites in collaboration with government agencies and private sector entities.
Dr. Al Ghassani stated, "Our aim is to provide a distinctive and unforgettable experience for all our visitors."
Notable attractions this year include Awqad Public Park in Salalah, specially designed for children and featuring international entertainment villages and interactive games. Ateen Plain in Salalah will exhibit 60 sites tailored for entrepreneurs, introducing a modern tourism model.
Ateen Square is set to open soon, providing a range of international activities to entertain visitors.
This season, one of the noteworthy initiatives is the improvement of displays featuring products by Omani youth, along with the establishment of 200 kiosks for restaurants and cafes. Last year, several major projects were launched in partnership with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and Omran Group, including the scenic viewpoints of Wadi Darbat and Hamrir, the seafront of Al Mughsail, and the development of Ayn Jarziz projects.
This year, additional tourism projects have been completed in the Wilayat of Rakhyut and at Al Damar beach in the Wilayat of Mirbat.
The popularity of Khareef Dhofar has increased, with 962,000 visitors in 2023, up from 813,000 in 2022.
The expected influx of over one million visitors this year is projected to result in expenditures exceeding OMR 100 million, demonstrating the significant economic impact of the season.
As the Khareef season unfolds, Dhofar is prepared to welcome tourists from all over the world, offering a vibrant mix of cultural, recreational, and entrepreneurial activities against the backdrop of its breathtaking natural beauty.
