Salalah – Dhofar Municipality launched a special cultural event titled ‘Return of the Past’ – a major highlight of Dhofar Khareef 2023 – in Salalah’s Al Hafa area on Tuesday.

The ‘Return of the Past’ event takes inspiration from five distinct environments of Dhofar. It puts the spotlight on the governorate’s urban, rural, marine, bedouin and agricultural roots, providing an immersive journey through Dhofar’s historical and cultural connections.

The event setup at Al Hafa includes an art-focused square, bringing together an array of local food stalls, heritage markets and engaging live performances. Visitors can savour authentic Omani cuisine, explore local artisanal products and enjoy art showcases that reflect Omani culture.

The Dhofar Khareef festival activities this year are spread across several locations. Visitors can enjoy a rich array of cultural experiences across venues such as the Salalah, Awqad and Al Saada parks, and Aten Square, which will remain open until August 31.

A unique ‘Children’s City’ has sprung up at Awqad Park, catering specifically to young visitors. The attraction features several kid-centric installations like a Smurfs village, a Masha and the Bear village and a Panda village, all of which pay tribute to beloved cartoon characters.

Adding to the line-up of kid-friendly activities, the festival also hosts a candy museum, an ice-skating rink, an Alice in Wonderland show, and an assortment of interactive VR games, ensuring a memorable and fun-filled experience for children visiting Dhofar Khareef 2023.