This is a busy time for hoteliers in Salalah when the whole of the GCC, including northern parts of Oman, reel under intense heat with temperatures ranging between 40-48 degrees Celsius.
The hotels in Salalah have already started preparations for the Dhofar Khareef season, which starts astronomically on June 21.
Keeping in mind the huge demand for Salalah and the rush during the season, the authorities have extended the season activities for three months. So this year the season will start on June 21 and continue till September 21.
This makes hoteliers a happy lot in terms of room occupation, revenue and many other activities like events and conferences.
Mehmet Tunc Mustecaplioglu, Area General Manager of Orascom Hotels Management of Oman, said, “On the books, it looks 50 per cent better than the previous year. The season is rain-related and we are expecting a better season... a lot depends on last-minute bookings.”
Mehmet is right in his observation, as the news of rain spreads all over very quickly and most of the hospitality properties get occupied soon after.
The Orascom GM welcomed the Dhofar Municipality’s decision to extend the season almost by a month giving visitors more time to plan and enjoy the Dhofar Khareef.
“We are well prepared to receive guests in our 1,200 rooms in Hawana Salalah and looking forward to entertaining them in the best possible way,” he said.
Maher Bahsoun, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah, said, “Our property is ready to welcome visitors from near and far for the much-anticipated Khareef season. Our dedicated team has been working tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of our resort is in prime condition, ensuring a memorable stay for all our guests.” “From meticulously-groomed gardens, world-class amenities including our all-new The Villa Wellness & Spa, to personalised services, we are committed to providing an unparalleled experience,” he said.
Hotels in Salalah have already started bookings as smart visitors have started booking in advance to take advantage of pre-booking discounts and avoid the last-minute rush.
“We are already witnessing a significant surge in room bookings for the Khareef season, as travellers from across the Gulf region and beyond seek to escape the scorching summer heat and immerse themselves in the refreshing Salalah monsoon,” said Maher Bahsoun.
The same is the situation with other hotels. Since the destination is greatly in demand, all of the star hotels show ‘fully booked’ all through the season.
According to sources in the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, there is a plan to add 1,000 hotel rooms to the existing 6000 by the end of this year. Thus hotel rooms by the end of this year will reach 7,000.
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