Dhofar’s rich culture and untamed landscapes in the spotlight at ITB Berlin 2025
With its historic wonders and breathtaking natural beauty, the lesser-known Dhofar region is one of the Oman’s secret treasures
For travellers looking to go beyond the beaten path, Dhofar, in the south of Oman, has a wealth of attractions that make it worth the trip.
Even for those familiar with Oman who have already witnessed its natural beauty and rich cultural offerings, the country still has secrets to unveil. The Dhofar region, tucked away in the south almost at the end of the 3,165 km coastline, is one such hidden gem.
Salalah, the largest city in Dhofar, became prosperous in the 13th century thanks to the frankincense trade. Visitors can explore the Museum of the Land of Frankinsence to understand why the Dhofar region is one of the few places on Earth where the frankincense tree (boswelia sacrea) thrives naturally. Salalah is also home to the beautiful Sultan Quaboos mosque, and the bustling Salalah Central Market.
At the UNESCO World Heritage Archaeological Site Al Baleed, visitors can follow in the footsteps of legendary travellers like Marco Polo, Ibn Battuta, and Zheng He. This remarkable site preserves the legacy of an ancient port city that played a pivotal role in the global frankincense trade, connecting Arabia to far-reaching destinations.
Beach lovers will also find plenty to explore in Dhofar. Al Fazayah Beach, nestled along the unspoiled coastline, is a serene escape that captivates with its natural beauty. The soft, white sand stretches along turquoise waters, creating a stunning contrast with the rocky cliffs that frame the beach.
Dhofar also offers an unforgettable desert adventure where travellers can step into one of the world’s most iconic landscapes: the Rub’ al Khali, or Empty Quarter. As the largest continuous sand desert on Earth with dramatic dunes that soar up to 250 metres high, Rub’ al Khali is a timeless, otherworldly landscape visitors can explore by 4×4 or on a camel trek.
Adventure fans will also appreciate the remarkable beauty and ecological significance of Dhofar’s Jabal Samhan, a mountain that rises to over 2,100 meters. As part of a protected nature reserve, Jabal Samhan provides sweeping views of Dhofar’s rugged terrain and the Arabian Sea. This majestic mountain is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including the rare Arabian leopard, Nubian ibex, Arabian wolf, gazelle and lynx. Adventurers can explore its trails, uncovering breathtaking vistas, deep canyons, and hidden caves.
A visit to picturesque Mirbat and its historic 19th-century castle is yet another Dhofar must. Once a key port in the frankincense trade, Mirbat retains its charm today as a historic coastal town. Its narrow streets are lined with traditional Omani houses featuring carved wooden doors, reflecting the town’s rich heritage.
From ancient trade routes to towering peaks, Dhofar is a region of captivating contrasts and timeless allure. This hidden gem in the south of Oman invites travellers to embrace a journey rich in culture, history, and natural beauty.
Hall 2.2 / Stands 201, 205
Lush greenery at Wadi Darbat
Anyone who has visited Oman knows that the country’s wadis are an absolute not-to-be missed highlight that strike a verdant contrast with their surrounding desert scenery. By comparison, the Dhofar region’s Wadi Darbat fits right into its environment during the Khareef monsoon season, making it one of Oman’s most striking natural wonders. From June to September, Wadi Darbat is transformed it into a lush green area with waterfalls that cascade down from high cliffs of some 100 metres where visitors can explore on boat rides or rent their own paddle boats.
Photo: Endless dunes in the Rub al-Khali © Andreas Conrad
