OTHER ATTRACTIONS OF SALALAH

The capital city of southern Oman’s Dhofar province is renowned for morphing into a tourist magnet from July to September – the famed Khareef season – when the otherwise dry region turns into a streamlaced and waterfall dotted landscape thriving with vegetation. There’s something here for just about every tourist, a long-time Oman resident and a good friend told me.

If you are a lover of history and archaeology, visit the ruins of Samharam. With a history that dates back to 1000 BC, it’s believed to have been a link between Dhofar and the rest of the world. Jars of Omani frankincense bound to the Queen of Sheba were said to have been loaded from Samharam Port. The area is currently called Bokhor Rori.

Looking to pick up some typical Omani souvenirs? Check out the Al Hafah and Al Husn souqs. Frankincense, Omani lanterns, wood carvings – and even the curved dagger that is Oman’s national symbol, can be found in these souqs about three kilometres from Salalah.

Interested in marine life? The seas off Oman, and particularly Dhofar, are home to a variety of whales and dolphins. From the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin and the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin to the common bottlenose dolphins and long-beaked common dolphin, the chances of spotting at least a few varieties are very high. There are plenty of tour operators who can arrange a tour to watch these creatures.

If you’re visiting during the khareef season, don’t miss a trip to Wadi Darbat, near Taqah, off the Tawi-Attir road. Boat lovers have lots of options to choose from. There’s plenty of picnic spots where you can set up a bbq, too.

The romantic type? Go for a walk with your loved one along Ad Dahariz beach. A stretch of white sand with coconut palms fringing the beach adds a novel touch. There’s also the picturesque Ad Dahriz Park next to the beach. Located on the eastern part of Salalah.