Salalah – This year’s Khareef Dhofar will feature over 180 activities and events spanning 90 days until September 20. Activities will focus on five main themes: environment, public health, youth, children, and arts and culture.

Announcing that June 21 marked the start of Dhofar’s unique season, H H Sayyid Marwan bin Turki al Said, Governor of Dhofar, promised a distinctive tourism experience.

He described Khareef Dhofar is an ideal destination for families and individuals, noting last year’s turnout of nearly 1mn visitors.

The governor outlined plans – focused on expanding event locations and improving visitor services – to enhance tourist sites, including natural landscapes and waterfronts, with a commitment to environmental sustainability.

This year’s extended 90-day season will allow ample time for exploration of the governorate’s beauty and diverse activities.

Ahmed bin Mohsen al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, highlighted key events of 2024 Khareef Dhofar, across existing and new sites to offer thrilling experiences.

Last season saw unprecedented participation, with visitor numbers ranging from 400,000 to 800,000 at major sites and over 150 events including art, sports, cultural, heritage and entertainment activities.

This year, the number of events is expected to reach 180, with 334 companies participating and 1,733 individuals and small to medium enterprises benefiting. Additional sites will offer over 500 opportunities and create temporary job openings for thousands of young people.

Elaborating on the new attractions this season, Ammar bin Obaid Ghawas, Director of Events and Awareness at Dhofar Municipality, said,  “Aten Square will feature new games and a state-of-the-art theatre hosting international shows, alongside spectacular lighting, laser and fountain shows, and extensive drone displays. Salalah Public Park will host weekly ‘Thru Town’ endurance and sports events, with additional sports facilities and playgrounds. Salalah International Cycling Tour returns with four stages and over 100 cyclists, while Omani Automobile Association’s Celebrations Square will host competitive activities for car enthusiasts.”

For children, Kiddy Time at Awqad Public Park features international animated shows and interactive play. Aten Square offers e-games for all ages, besides pedestrian walkways and green spaces. Cultural events include ‘The Return to the Old Village’, showcasing Dhofar’s rural, bedouin, marine and agricultural environments.

This season will also witness the inaugural Dhofar International Theatre Festival, featuring six genres of theatre aiming to set benchmarks globally with top performances, competitions and distinguished guests.