Salalah: Al Haffa Beach Market in the Wilayat of Salalah is a popular tourist and heritage destination in the Dhofar Governorate, providing a wide selection of goods and services run by entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises, and local families. With over 356 commercial booths, the market offers Oman-made products, crafts, traditional cuisine, and historic artifacts that represent the country's cultural diversity.
The site has the Frankincense Market, which is governed by the Dhofar Municipality and draws a great number of tourists throughout the Khareef (monsoon) season. Visitors may learn about frankincense harvesting and various applications, as well as see displays of traditional handicrafts, local cuisine, and historical items sold by families and small and medium-sized businesses from throughout the governorate.
Salim Abdullah Fadil, supervisor of the Frankincense Market's family products section, observed that this year's market has witnessed a large increase of tourists, all set against a background of Omani frankincense fragrance, vivid historical exhibitions, and live artistic performances. More than 300 regional families are participating, offering genuine Omani handicrafts, meals, and goods.
He stated that this year has seen logistical and organizational enhancements, such as enlarged exhibit areas, updated facilities and parking, and redesigned stalls inspired by regional traditional architecture—all of which improve the visitor experience while highlighting the region's cultural identity.
The market will be open until the conclusion of the Khareef season, with Omani traditional art groups performing daily from 4 p. m. to midnight. These include heritage-inspired art installations and children's programs, which reinforce the town's position as a popular tourist and heritage attraction while promoting local businesses.
Haitham Mahmoud Jad, Director of Al Haffa Market, said that the market is a must-see destination for visitors during Khareef, providing a diverse range of items to suit all preferences, as well as restaurants, cafés, and banking services. He reaffirmed continued development ambitions to boost the market's status as a leading tourist destination.
Several business owners at the market complimented Dhofar Municipality and market management for their assistance in building the location and increasing its appeal to tourists from throughout Oman and overseas. They also emphasized the necessity for increased parking and stronger marketing activities to bring even more visitors.
