Khareef Dhofar 2026 boosts local economy and supports youth projects

The Khareef Dhofar season is drawing to a close after filling Salalah and other parts of Dhofar with more than 300 events, while giving young entrepreneurs and Omani businesses a prominent place in the program.

The season included arts, cultural, entertainment and sports activities, along with heritage events, international performances and global festivals. Ammar Aoubad Ghawas, director of events and awareness at Dhofar Municipality, said organizers sought a renewed format that combined Omani identity with a global outlook. He said the impact extended beyond entertainment into culture, society, tourism, investment and the economy.

The municipality reported that 1,742 small and medium-sized projects benefited from marketing opportunities at event locations. A total of 4,215 job seekers also benefited, according to Ghawas. He said the figures reflected the season’s economic and social reach, as local projects gained opportunities to present themselves in tourism, entertainment and service markets.

Youth initiatives took part at locations including Al Ghareef, Osara, Nova, La Mer Al Mughsail, sites in the city center, Ittin Square and Oudat Al Madhi, as well as venues in Taqah, Sadah and Mirbat. Cultural and heritage activities showcased lifestyles from different parts of Dhofar while supporting productive families, national projects, local products and Omani Women’s Associations.

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The season combined Omani identity with a global vision, creating an impact extending beyond entertainment to culture, society, economy, tourism and investment.