Khareef
Dhofar 2025 to Kick Off 21 June with Diverse Tourism, Cultural Experiences
Dubai,
29 Apr (ONA) —— During a press conference on the sidelines of its participation
at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, the Sultanate of Oman unveiled the
activities and events of “Kareef Dhofar 2025” season, featuring a variety of
tourism and cultural experiences. The season will coincide with the
astronomical start of autumn on 21 June and run until 20 September each year.
Dr.
Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality stated that this
year’s main and accompanying events will be distributed across both existing
sites undergoing continuous development and new locations, offering visitors
exceptional experiences.
He
explained that the “Return of the Past” activities in this edition
will feature a new approach reflecting Omani authenticity and traditional life
from across the Sultanate of Oman’s governorates. These will include folk art
performances, heritage markets, and handicraft displays. He noted that last
year’s event achieved significant success and widespread acclaim from visitors
and participants.
He
added that the event’s site has undergone comprehensive upgrades to enhance its
heritage character, blending the charm of the past with the spirit of the
present. Further developments are planned in the coming years to establish it
as a leading heritage destination.
He
affirmed that “Ateen Square” will be a hub for major entertainment events and
performances, building on the remarkable success of previous editions that
attracted large audiences. The site will serve as a global events center,
featuring an integrated shopping area, an open-air theater, a modern games
zone, new light and laser shows, and contemporary dining facilities—solidifying
its position as a premier cultural and entertainment destination.
Dr.
Al Ghassani pointed out that Awqad Park will be a family entertainment center
with activities tailored for children and parents, featuring a distinct theme
this year. Meanwhile, “Up Town” in Ateen Plain will debut with diverse events
catering to all age groups.
He
noted that Salalah Public Park will host various sports activities throughout
the autumn season, with broad participation from all age groups and people with
disabilities. “Al Murooj Theater” will be dedicated to cultural events,
featuring local, Gulf, and Arab theatrical performances.
The
municipality is expanding events to include coastal Wilayats affected by the
autumn season, with diverse cultural, sports, and commercial activities.
Development projects—such as enhancing natural viewpoints, tourist sites, road
paving, and urban beautification—have been implemented in collaboration with
government and private entities to improve visitor experiences and tourism
infrastructure, he further added.
On
his turn, Azzan Qasim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage
and Tourism for Tourism, affirmed the ministry’s readiness to promote “Khareef
Dhofar 2025” through various programs under a coordinated plan with relevant
authorities.
He
added that several new tourism and hotel facilities will open this year in
Dhofar, where 83 licensed hotels—offering 6,537 rooms—are already prepared to
welcome visitors.
The
ministry has launched promotional campaigns for the season, starting with its
participation at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, including a press
conference to announce key events. Marketing efforts include media campaigns,
social media promotions, direct outreach in Gulf and regional markets, digital
ads, and familiarization trips for travel agencies, media delegations, and
influencers, he pointed out.
He
explained that special tourism packages have been designed in collaboration
with local and international travel companies to enhance visitor experiences
and boost inbound tourism by connecting Omani tourism entities with global
markets.
Government
and private entities prepare annually to receive tourists during Khareef
Dhofar, providing necessary services and facilities.
According
to the National Centre for Statistics and Information, visitor numbers to Dhofar
during the 2024 khareef season rose by 9%, reaching approximately 1.048 million
tourists.
Notably,
Dhofar is also distinguished by two other seasons—Al-Sarb and winter—which
attract nearly half a million visitors from various world countries.
——
Ends/AH
