Oman’s Khareef Dhofar Season Sees a Surge in Tourism, Welcoming Over One Million Visitors in 2025

Written By: Ryan Rashid

Ryan Rashid

Ryan Rashid covers the travel and aviation industry with a focus on the disruptions, industry shifts, and operational changes that shape how people actually travel. An English graduate from Calcutta University, he pairs sharp writing instincts with a solid grip on what makes a story travel online. He keeps a close eye on what's trending and what's about to, so stories land while they still matter. Underneath the fast pace, there's always solid research and clean editing holding it together.

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September 13, 2025 04:48 GMT+5:30

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The Khareef Dhofar season in Oman has once again proven to be a major draw for tourists, with more than 1 million visitors arriving by the end of August 2025. This annual festival, known for its lush landscapes, cool weather, and cultural experiences, continues to captivate both local and international visitors. The season, which runs from June to September, has seen a steady rise in visitor numbers, reaffirming Dhofar’s position as a leading tourism destination in the region.

Growth in Visitor Numbers

The National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) recently released data showing a 2% increase in the number of visitors during the Khareef Dhofar season, compared to the previous year. By August 31, 2025, the total number of visitors reached 1,027,255, up from 1,006,635 during the same period in 2024. This growth highlights the increasing appeal of Oman as a prime travel destination, particularly during the Khareef season, when the region’s weather and scenery are at their most attractive.

The season’s popularity is largely driven by Omanis, who made up a significant portion of the visitors. Omani tourists accounted for 734,225 of the total, marking an impressive 71.5% rise. The Khareef season has become an essential event on the national tourism calendar, with residents flocking to Dhofar to experience the unique climate and festivities.

International Visitors and Regional Travel

In addition to local tourists, the Khareef season has also attracted a significant number of visitors from other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Travelers from the GCC made up 179,246 of the total visitors. This trend underscores the growing regional tourism within the GCC, with Dhofar offering a refreshing alternative to the typically hot and dry climate of other parts of the Arabian Peninsula.

International visitors also contributed to the growing numbers, with 113,784 tourists from non-GCC countries making their way to Oman. This diverse mix of tourists speaks to Dhofar’s appeal beyond the region, positioning the area as an international tourist hotspot.

Visitor Arrival Trends

The data also revealed important insights into how visitors are arriving in Dhofar. Of the 1,027,255 visitors recorded by the end of August, 251,064 arrived by air, showcasing the role of Oman’s air travel infrastructure in facilitating tourism. The international airport in Salalah, the capital of Dhofar, continues to serve as a critical gateway for tourists wishing to experience the season’s highlights, including the famous misty mountains and lush landscapes.

The remaining 776,191 visitors entered through Oman’s land borders, arriving via the road network connecting Dhofar to the rest of the country. However, this route saw a slight decline of 1.3% compared to the same period in 2024, indicating a subtle shift towards air travel as the preferred mode of transport for many tourists.

High-Season Traffic Surge

August proved to be a particularly busy month for the region, with 585,155 visitors making their way to Dhofar between August 1 and August 31. The surge in numbers during this period suggests that the Khareef season continues to gain momentum, attracting not only those seeking a respite from the summer heat but also those eager to participate in the cultural and recreational activities that define the season.

During this peak period, the region’s hotels, resorts, and local businesses see significant boosts in activity, contributing to the economic vibrancy of the area. Tourists flock to the picturesque coastal areas, explore the mountains, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural experiences that make Dhofar so unique. This influx of visitors helps stimulate the local economy and reinforces the importance of tourism to Oman’s broader economic goals.

Impact on Tourism Infrastructure

The steady increase in visitor numbers also signals the growing need for more robust tourism infrastructure in Dhofar. As more tourists are drawn to the region each year, there will be a greater emphasis on improving transportation, hospitality services, and entertainment options. The government has already started investing in these areas to ensure that the region remains competitive and capable of meeting the needs of a growing tourist base.

Moreover, the development of sustainable tourism initiatives will be key to preserving the unique environment of Dhofar. With a focus on eco-tourism, Oman’s tourism authorities are working to promote responsible travel that minimizes environmental impact while still offering tourists a memorable experience.

Overview

The Khareef Dhofar season remains one of Oman’s premier tourist attractions, with visitor numbers continuing to rise year on year. The unique combination of cooler weather, lush landscapes, and cultural experiences draws tourists from Oman, the GCC, and beyond. As the region continues to grow in popularity, investments in infrastructure and sustainable tourism will ensure that Dhofar remains a top destination for years to come.