Tag Archives: Dhofar

Oman’s southernmost gem, with a tropical climate and a monsoon season, known as the Khareef, Dhofar is unlike any other region of Oman. The region’s lush green landscape from June to September when the mists and rains of the Khareef descend, offers indelible sight to the visitors. Steeped in history and full of fascinating places to visit year-round, Dhofar is one of the hidden secrets of the Gulf. Perched on ancient ruins, Mirbat Castle offers a captivating interactive exhibition, showcasing its storied past, Dhofar’s rich environment, and the unique culture of Mirbat’s people. Nearby, Jebel Samham—the region’s highest peak—hosts the rare Dracaena cinnabari, known as the Dragon’s Blood tree for its striking red sap. For thrill-seekers, Ras Hanani, Dhofar’s prime snorkelling and diving spot near Salalah, teems with marine wonders. Glide alongside majestic manta rays and spot eerie moray eels lurking in coral crevices. Dhofar is one of the world’s few places where you can marvel at brain and table corals amid vibrant schools of fish.

Explore nature’s true wonders at Al Hashman, Dhofar. The drive beyond the Lost City of Ubar takes the adventurous visitor further into the Empty Quarter desert of Oman and on to the Al Hashman sand dunes. The first stretch of the journey traverses a giant empty plain where the land is flat and parched with scant signs of life save for the occasional tree and shrub that somehow manages to cling to life. It is incredible to think of the resilient Bedouin making their trek across ancient trading routes and the faithful on their three-month journey by camel train to Mecca, routes long since replaced by planes and off-road vehicles. Head to the top of a sand dune to grasp the enormity of what is surely one of the natural wonders of the world.