Top 7 Things to Do in Salalah during Khareef Season 2025
If you are looking for a refreshing escape from the summer heat of the Gulf, Salalah in southern Oman offers the perfect getaway – especially during the magical Khareef Season. From mid-June to early September, Salalah transforms into a lush, green paradise thanks to the southwest monsoon. This is the only time of year when the Arabian Peninsula is enveloped in mist, rain, and flowing waterfalls, making it a dream destination for nature lovers, families, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you are planning your journey with a Salalah tour package from Dubai or setting out on a road trip, here are the top 7 things to do in Salalah during Khareef Season 2025.
- Explore Wadi Darbat – The Jewel of Khareef – Wadi Darbat is perhaps the most iconic location during Khareef. The valley comes alive with waterfalls, lakes, and rich greenery unlike anywhere else in the region. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, hiking, picnics, or simply take in the serene surroundings. The famous seasonal waterfall, tumbling over limestone cliffs, is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Oman. If you are taking a Salalah tour package from Dubai, make sure Wadi Darbat is on the itinerary – you don’t want to miss this natural wonder.
- Visit Al Mughsail Beach and Marneef Cave – While many associate beaches with sunbathing and swimming, Al Mughsail Beach during Khareef offers a different experience. The cool, cloudy weather enhances the charm of this scenic coastline. Near the beach lies Marneef Cave, known for its dramatic rock formations and the famous blowholes that spray seawater into the air as waves crash beneath. This is a perfect stop for photography lovers and families looking to experience the raw beauty of Salalah’s coastline.
- Stroll Through the Frankincense Land – Salalah is the historical heart of frankincense production. The Land of Frankincense, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, allows visitors to step back in time and explore the ancient trade routes and ruins of Ubar and Al-Baleed. The Frankincense Museum in Al-Baleed Archaeological Park is a must-visit to understand the region’s historical and cultural significance. This activity is often included in cultural Salalah tour packages from Dubai and offers a unique educational experience alongside natural sightseeing.
- Drive through the Mountains of Jebel Samhan – The drive up Jebel Samhan, one of the highest points in Dhofar, is a surreal experience during the Khareef season. The winding mountain roads are covered in mist, with sudden vistas opening up to sweeping valleys and grazing camels. At the top, you’ll find a viewing platform where you can often look down over the clouds – a breathtaking sight that’s both peaceful and humbling. Adventure seekers and photographers will especially love this journey, and it’s a popular addition to most customized Salalah tour packages.
- Enjoy the Khareef Festival – If you are visiting during peak Khareef, don’t miss the annual Salalah Tourism Festival, also known as the Khareef Festival. This celebration includes cultural shows, live music, traditional Omani food, art exhibitions, and carnival-style activities for children. It is a lively, family-friendly event that gives you a deeper understanding of Omani culture and hospitality. Tour packages often schedule visits to the festival grounds, so booking a Salalah tour package from Dubai during this period ensures you’ll get the full cultural experience.
- Discover the Hidden Beauty of Ayn Khor and Ayn Athum – Salalah is dotted with natural springs and waterfalls during the monsoon, and Ayn Khor and Ayn Athum are two of the most beautiful. These hidden gems come alive in Khareef, with cascading water surrounded by thick vegetation. They are ideal spots for nature lovers looking to escape the crowds and soak in tranquil beauty. Guided tours from Dubai usually include these stops on their Khareef nature excursions, so be sure to check if they’re part of your package.
- Visit the Tomb of Nabi Ayoub (Prophet Job’s Tomb) – For those interested in spiritual sites and religious history, the Tomb of Nabi Ayoub, believed to be the resting place of Prophet Job, is located in the hills above Salalah. The peaceful atmosphere, coupled with the spiritual significance and lush surroundings, makes this an important and reflective stop. Pilgrims and curious travelers alike will appreciate the serenity of this place – especially during the green season when it’s surrounded by fog and blooming flora.
Why Choose a Salalah Tour Package from Dubai?
Traveling from Dubai to Salalah can be done by road or air, but booking a Salalah tour package from Dubai simplifies everything. These packages typically include:
- Round-trip transportation (flights or luxury buses)
- Hotel stays with scenic views
- Guided tours to major attractions
- Cultural experiences and festival visits
- Meals and transportation in Salalah
Opting for a package ensures that your trip is hassle-free and lets you fully enjoy Salalah’s short-lived but unforgettable monsoon magic.
Khareef season in Salalah is more than just a getaway – it’s a chance to experience a side of the Arabian Peninsula that few expect: green hills, cool mist, thundering waterfalls, and vibrant culture. Whether you are an adventurer, a couple on a romantic escape, or a family looking for a refreshing break, Salalah offers something special. And with well-organized Salalah tour packages from Dubai, there is no excuse not to discover this hidden gem in 2025.









