Muscat – The hospitality sector in Dhofar governorate is gearing up to host a large number of tourists, expecting abundant gains during the three months of khareef season beginning this week.

Industry players anticipate over 90% occupancy in most hotels, and the prospects of tiding over the financial crisis that unfolded due to losses incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Khareef season in Dhofar, known for its tropical weather and moderate temperatures, is an ideal time for visitors from both inside and outside Oman to experience mist-covered hillsides and scores of springs in spate.

According to Ahmed Mohammed al Ghassani, Director of Quality Control at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), nearly 6,000 hotel rooms are ready to receive visitors, meeting benchmarks based on their approved classification. 

To absorb the pressure of the influx of tourists, several licensed tourism facilities have also been lined up this year.

Bilal Mohammed al Sawi, a supervisor at Darbat Hotel in Dhofar, expects hotel occupancy to reach over 90% during Khareef this year, compared to 75% in 2022. 

“Visitors are drawn to popular destinations such as Wadi Darbat, one of the most famous and beautiful valleys in Dhofar. This is in addition to a variety of events, activities, and popular markets organised by the ministry (MHT) to entertain tourists during the season.”

Fuel price subsidies at Salalah airport, following Royal Directives, are also expected to further boost the tourist inflow this year, Sawi felt.

Mohammad Jalaluddin, an official at Al Mazar Hotel Apartments in Salalah, revealed that almost all the rooms at his hotel got booked for 10 to 15 days post-Eid al Adha period.

“Salalah offers a variety of attractions, including fairs, food stalls, children’s rides, and more. Tourists frequently visit the mountains, making most of the weather, for barbecues.”

Mohammed Omran, a supervisor at the Nile Hotel in Dhofar, echoed similar views as that of the Darbat Hotel supervisor on occupancy. “We expect an occupancy rate of over 90% and we are fully ready to host them.”

Asrar Ahmed, a receptionist at Intercity Hotel Salalah, also indicated that all rooms in their property would be reserved for the months of July and August. 

Ahmed said apart from the hotels, other parties too are ready – with numerous activities, specially designed gardens for children and food trucks – to welcome visitors. 

However, Ahmed is of the pinion that hosting bigger international festivals could be an effective way to attract a larger crowd to Oman.

Khalid al Abri, Director General of Heritage and Tourism in Dhofar, highlighted the ministry’s efforts to attract tourists during the khareef season. 

“Attractive promotional packages will be offered in collaboration with airlines and hotels. Salalah Airport expects over 160 weekly flights from regional and international destinations during the season.”

The ministry is implementing an active programme to promote khareef season, which include hosting of influential social media personalities from the Arab region and conducting a joint promotional campaign with airlines and hotel establishments.