Salalah – The third edition of the Frankincense Season is set to commence tomorrow, November 27, at Al Baleed Archaeological Park in Salalah, Dhofar Governorate. Organised by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), the event will run until December 6 and is being held across the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Land of Frankincense, which include Al Baleed Archaeological Park, Samharam Archaeological Park, Wubar Archaeological Site, and Wadi Dokah Nature Reserve.

The programme will feature a live demonstration of the ancient methods of manufacturing frankincense products and extracts, showcasing their historical export by caravans through Dhofar. Visitors can also enjoy scientific and cultural activities for children, such as ‘The Little Trader’ as well as exhibitions of perfumes and products made from frankincense by Omani companies.

MHT has stated that the event aims to promote the historical importance of the Land of Frankincense, highlighting its role in facilitating cultural and commercial exchange with civilisations worldwide. In addition, the event seeks to attract global tourists to Dhofar while showcasing its unique cultural heritage.

This year’s edition includes a restaurant corner, pleasure boat rides in Khor Al Baleed, and a children’s theatre, along with a live show depicting historic markets that traded in frankincense. On December 2, a special celebration will commemorate the inclusion of the Frankincense Land sites on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The season will also witness the planting of 100 frankincense trees in Wadi Dokah Reserve.

Statistics from the ministry reveal that, in 2023, the Land of Frankincense sites attracted significant tourist interest. Al Baleed Archaeological Park and the Land of Frankincense Museum received 61,974 visitors, Samharam Archaeological Park welcomed 32,694 visitors, and Wubar Archaeological Site in Thumrait recorded 12,600 visitors.

With its diverse programme, the Frankincense Season continues to enhance Dhofar’s standing as a key cultural and historical destination while supporting tourism development throughout the year.