Salalah – The Al Haffa Beach Market in Salalah has reaffirmed its place as one of Dhofar’s most vibrant heritage and tourism destinations this khareef season, celebrating Omani identity while supporting hundreds of families engaged in the cottage industry.

Spread across more than 356 stalls, the market offers visitors a wide range of handicrafts, traditional foods, local products, and heritage items. At its heart is the dedicated frankincense market, overseen by Dhofar Municipality, where visitors can learn about the extraction process and the many uses of this signature Omani treasure.

“Over 300 families are participating, presenting their handicrafts, traditional foods, and other Omani products in an atmosphere filled with the fragrance of frankincense, live performances, and traditional colours,” said Salim bin Abdullah Fadhel, supervisor of the frankincense market for productive families.

This year, organisers have expanded exhibition spaces, improved facilities and parking, and introduced redesigned kiosks inspired by traditional Omani architecture.

“These enhancements not only elevate the visitor experience but also reflect the rich cultural identity of Dhofar,” Fadhel added.

The market remains open until the end of khareef, offering daily performances by Omani art groups, children’s programmes, and a variety of restaurants, cafes, and banking services.

Al Haffa Market manager Haitham Mahmoud Gad described it as a key stop for visitors from within Oman and abroad.