For those who are yet to explore Salalah, there is still a unique opportunity to experience the magic of the Khareef season. This is due to the fact that many visitors have returned home with the start of the new school semester, while the season is far from over.
Thanks to the foresight of the Dhofar Municipality, the Khareef season has been officially extended by an extra month. This extension, coupled with the daily morning and evening drizzles offers an ideal window for those looking to visit Salalah now.
Khareef season, as per official calendar, starts on June 21 and ends on August 31. So, one month of extension is in favour of ‘late visitors’.
Visitors arriving at this time can take full advantage of off-season discounts from hotels and other hospitality providers, making it a great time to explore the city without the crowds.
For those who missed out on Salalah during the peak of the Khareef season, there's good news: The unique weather conditions are expected to continue well into September. The "off-season" for Salalah typically begins in early September, but for those willing to stay in furnished apartments scattered across the city, the off-season benefits have already started.
With the reopening of schools and other educational institutions, many domestic tourists have already left. However, the major hotels in Salalah still have high occupancy rates due to several significant events scheduled until mid-September.
After these events, there will be a brief lull before the charter season picks up again, offering an excellent opportunity for tourists who previously avoided Salalah due to high demand and prices.
“For late visitors, there are several advantages: Reduced traffic, lush green landscapes, and vibrant natural springs. The easing of crowds means more freedom to explore and dine at popular city restaurants without waiting,” said Ali who works in Salalah but has his own house on Hajaif mountain.
“Mist and fog continue to envelop the mountains, and the natural springs, replenished by consistent drizzles, are still flowing. This weather even allows visitors to enjoy the fresh air without needing air conditioning, a refreshing change from the heat of other regions,” he says.
A visitor from Muscat aptly compared the weather between Muscat and Salalah, noting, "In Salalah, I don't get tired at all, even after a whole day of walking and exploring. But in Muscat, the heat exhausts me, even when I'm just walking a short distance to the school bus stop." With traffic easing on city roads, even Salalah residents are preparing to enjoy their city once again, with many gearing up for weekend picnics. This period is the perfect time to take advantage of the extended Khareef season and explore Salalah's natural beauty without the peak-season crowds.
Whether you're a latecomer to the Khareef or a local rediscovering the city's charm, now is the time to enjoy the serene beauty and unique weather of Salalah before the season comes to a close.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
