Khareef Season
Khareef is Salalah's magical monsoon season that transforms Oman's southern region into a lush green paradise from June to September. While the rest of the Arabian Peninsula experiences scorching summer heat, Salalah enjoys cool misty weather, cascading waterfalls, and temperatures between 20-27°C. Over one million visitors flock to Dhofar each year to witness this natural wonder – making it the best time to visit Salalah.
During Khareef, dry mountains turn emerald green, hidden waterfalls come alive, and fog blankets the valleys creating breathtaking landscapes. The annual Khareef Festival (July 15 – August 31) adds cultural celebrations, local food, traditional music, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're escaping the Gulf summer heat or seeking unique natural beauty, Khareef season offers an unforgettable Salalah experience.
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Learn more about Khareef
What is Khareef Season? Khareef is the Arabic word for autumn, but in Salalah it refers to the annual monsoon season that sweeps across Oman's Dhofar region. Unlike heavy Asian monsoons, Salalah's Khareef brings gentle drizzles, cool mist, and refreshing breezes that transform the arid landscape into a tropical paradise. When is Khareef Season in Salalah? Khareef season officially runs from June 21 to September 20 each year. The peak months are July and August when the greenery is at its best and the famous Khareef Festival takes place. Most tourists visit between mid-July and late August to experience Salalah at its most vibrant. Khareef Season Weather During Khareef, Salalah enjoys the coolest temperatures in the entire Arabian Peninsula. Expect daytime temperatures between 20°C to 27°C, light rainfall, misty mornings, and overcast skies. The humidity is high but the cool breeze makes outdoor exploration comfortable. Pack light rain gear and a jacket for mountain visits. Why Visit Salalah During Khareef? Millions of tourists from UAE, Saudi Arabia, and beyond escape the extreme Gulf summer to enjoy Salalah's unique monsoon climate. Here's what makes Khareef special: Lush Green Landscapes – Dry brown mountains transform into emerald green valleys covered in vegetation. Seasonal Waterfalls – Hidden waterfalls like Ayn Athum and Wadi Darbat come alive during monsoon. Cool Weather – Escape 45°C+ Gulf temperatures and enjoy pleasant 20-27°C climate. Khareef Festival – Annual cultural celebration with food stalls, music, entertainment, and family activities. Unique Experience – Witness a rare natural phenomenon found nowhere else in Arabia. Khareef Festival 2025 The Salalah Khareef Festival runs from July 15 to August 31, 2025 at Ittin Plain. The festival features: Traditional Omani music and dance performances Local food stalls serving authentic Dhofari cuisine Handicraft markets and frankincense souks Carnival rides and family entertainment Drone shows and cultural exhibitions Top Places to Visit During Khareef AttractionWhy VisitWadi DarbatStunning waterfalls, boat rides & lush valleysAyn AthumSpectacular seasonal waterfallJebel SamhanMisty mountain views & cloud-level viewpointsIttin PlainKhareef Festival location & green meadowsMughsail BeachDramatic blowholes & crashing waves Khareef Season Travel Tips Book Early – Hotels fill up fast. Reserve accommodation 2-3 months in advance. Rent a Car – Essential for exploring mountain roads and waterfalls. Drive Carefully – Fog and slippery roads are common. Use headlights and drive slow. Dress in Layers – Mornings are cool and misty, afternoons can be humid. Expect Crowds – Peak season means busy attractions, especially on weekends. Check Flight Prices – Airlines increase flights but prices rise during July-August. Best Time to Visit Salalah PeriodExperienceMid-JuneEarly greenery, fewer crowdsJulyPeak monsoon, festival beginsAugustLushest landscapes, most crowdedSeptemberPost-monsoon, green but clearingOctober-NovemberPost-Khareef glow, fewer tourists, lower prices Frequently Asked Questions Is Khareef season the best time to visit Salalah? Yes, Khareef (June-September) is the peak tourist season when Salalah transforms into a green paradise with cool weather and waterfalls. What is the Khareef Festival? An annual celebration from July 15 to August 31 featuring cultural performances, local food, handicrafts, and family entertainment at Ittin Plain. Is it safe to drive during Khareef? Yes, but exercise caution. Mountain roads can be foggy and slippery. Use headlights and drive slowly, especially in the evenings. How many tourists visit during Khareef? Over one million visitors travel to Salalah during Khareef season, with 70% being Omani residents and GCC tourists. What should I pack for Khareef season? Light rain jacket, layers for cool mornings, comfortable walking shoes, and waterproof bag for electronics.