With the beginning of the winter season, Salalah has started welcoming tourists from European countries. The first charter of the season arrived from the Czech Republic, carrying 183 visitors. This marked the beginning of an influx of tourists, with additional flights from Slovakia and Hungary expected in the coming weeks.
Hotels in Dhofar, particularly those within the Integrated Tourism Complex (ITC), are already reporting high occupancy rates.
Leading properties such as Rotana, Al Fanar, Juwaira and the Club by Fanar are projected to reach 92 per cent occupancy by the third week of October.
"It is a good start to the season. With our 1,204 rooms, we expect full occupancy from a mix of charter and regular tourists," said a senior official from the ITC.
This high demand highlights Salalah’s growing popularity as a winter tourism hub, particularly among European travellers.
There has been growing demand for Dhofar’s natural and cultural attractions.
Salalah’s appeal is not just limited to its luxurious accommodations but also its stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Last season, Dhofar saw a remarkable 18.4 per cent increase in tourists, largely thanks to 239 charter flights from various European countries.
To cater to this growing demand, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has been working on enhancing key tourist sites in the governorate.
Projects like the development of Haywar Cave in Jabal Samhan and upgrades to adventure tourism offerings are aimed at improving the overall tourist experience.
Additionally, the ministry is focusing on promoting local culture by creating opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Riyada cardholders to showcase local crafts and souvenirs at popular tourist spots such as Al Baleed Archaeological Park.
This initiative not only supports the local economy, but also gives visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Dhofar’s rich heritage.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is also implementing a strategic promotional campaign targeting Gulf and international markets. With a combination of luxury resorts, cultural experiences and eco-tourism, Salalah is positioning itself as a premier destination for winter tourism.
The promotional efforts are expected to further boost tourist arrivals, particularly from neighbouring Gulf countries and Europe.
As winter approaches, Salalah is set to enjoy a vibrant season filled with international visitors, bolstered by direct charter flights and high hotel occupancy. With continued investments in infrastructure and tourism development, Dhofar is poised to enhance its reputation as a must-visit destination during the season.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
