Khareef season in Oman's Salalah huge hit with Bahraini tourists

TDT | Manama                       

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Reported by Zahra Ayaz

Bahrainis are flocking to Salalah in Oman during the Khareef season to escape the severe heat in their home country. While summer temperatures in the Middle East average around 43°C, the south of Oman has the Khareef season, which lasts from late June to September and brings monsoon rain.

During these months, the dried-out terrain of Dhofar Governorate comes to life, turning its valleys and mountains into a vibrant green landscape. Springs and waterfalls begin flowing into the mountains during this period of time as rains shower the region.

Meanwhile, Oman is increasingly a preferred vacation destination for people in Bahrain, and several travel agencies have noticed a surge in Bahrainis booking their flights there. The city’s natural green environment, enticing Khareef season, and rich cultural events have attracted tourists worldwide.

There are a lot of reservations and queries for Salalah during Khareef. Sources claim that as travel to Oman has become more popular, hotel prices have climbed by 300 percent. It has been noted that travel agencies and airlines are profiting from this, driving up costs for travel and accommodations during peak seasons like the Khareef.

Speaking to The Daily Tribune, Fatima Ahmed, Managing Director of Ibn Firnas Travel & Tourism, said: "As summer heat is gearing up in Bahrain and other neighbouring GCC countries, we seek solutions for all potential passengers to find a nice destination within the reach of their budgets and cool weather during the hot months of July and August."

She explained that Salam Air has announced non-stop flights between Bahrain and Salalah. This new service, which commenced on July 5, 2023, will be supporting the Khareef season in Oman as well as giving potential passengers a non-stop flight to a beautiful destination with cool weather, a variety of natural inhabitants, lots of green mountains, flat hills, a dashing sea, and the most delicious fresh fruits you can think of.

"Many people prefer to travel to Salalah during Khareef season," said Sajeev Kumar, director of Travel Knits, in a talk with The Daily Tribune. "Especially this year, more flight options are available."

Kumar further said, "Oman always has some specific tourist demands; however, I believe Turkey still remains one of the most attractive tourist destinations for everyone. Typically, demand for travel in Oman begins at the end of June and lasts through the end of August, which is also the time when schools are out of session."