Salalah is the capital city of Oman's southern Dhofar region. It is the second largest city in the Sultanate, and has the distinction of being the Sultan Qaboos' birthplace. For most visitors, Salalah is the gateway to Oman’s most southerly governate of Dhofar – a historically independent, and culturally and ecologically unique region.
Photos: Wikimedia Commons contributors.
As the traditional regional capital, the city’s history stretches back two millennia, when, thanks to its strategic location, it was an important stop on the frankincense and silk trading routes. In the 19th century the region was incorporated into the Sultanate of Muscat and Oman, and Salalah served as the country’s capital from 1932 until the accession of Sultan Qaboos in 1970, who relocated the capital to Muscat.
It is possible to explore parts of Salalah on foot, as most places of interest are close to each other. During warmer times of year, though, walking may not be the best idea. The usual unmetered Omani taxis operate here. Negotiate the price before getting in. In 2021, a ride within the city was 1 rial. Most of the time, regular taxis were cheaper than the ride-hailing app Otaxi, but the app can be used to estimate a price. If you hire a car, 2WD cars are adequate for most sights within Salalah itself. Outside of Salalah, however, many places of tourist interest lie off road, and SUVs are recommended particularly during the khareef season because of slippery terrain.
The old city is confined to the area called Al Haffa (Hafah), on the seafront. 1 Al Baleed Archeological Park, As Sultan Qaboos St, ☏ +968 23 303577, incense@omantel.net.om. Sa-W 9AM-2PM, 4PM-8PM; Th-F 4PM-8PM. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these extensive ruins were once the 12th-century trading port of Zafar, visited by Marco Polo in 1285. RO 2 (only accepts credit card, includes admission to the Frankincense Museum). 2 Museum of Frankincense Land, As Sultan Qaboos St (on the grounds of the Al Baleed Archeological Park), ☏ +968 23 303577. Sa-W 8AM-2PM, 4PM-8PM; Th-F 4PM-8PM. This excellent museum has displays on the history of the port and of the region.
Salalah Tourism Festival (Salalah Festival / Khareef Festival). Jul-Aug. Held annually during the khareef period, this festival celebrates Dhofari culture and traditions with food, music, and entertainment. 1 Khawr Salalah (As Sultan Qaboos St and Al Khawr St). Nov-Apr. Avid birdwatchers can find many species of birds within the city itself, as this lagoon is noted for attracting flamingos, ospreys, and many migratory birds. Bring your binoculars. Free. Extra Divers Salalah (in the Crowne Plaza Resort), ☏ +968 92 873560, salalah@extradivers.info. 4PM-6PM. Organizes guided tours for diving and snorkeling, and conducts a full range of PADI courses.
If you decide to visit places outside Salalah city (good advice for traveling anywhere in Oman), remember to carry some food packed for emergencies (fruits, fruit juices, sandwiches recommended) as there are few restaurants outside the city. Always carry several bottles of drinking water since you may not find any store on the highways. There is, however, a delightful ocean-side cafe on the way to Mughsayl and the tidal geyser there. Al Kutaini Restaurant, 23 July St, ☏ +968 23 294179. Offers a wide range of continental dishes but specialize in Pakistani cuisine. 1 Annapoorna Restaurant (Al-Saf Saf), Al Ferdows St (off of 23 July St).
Alcohol for non-Muslim visitors is available at high end hotels like Oasis Club near the port, as well as at the bars in the Crowne Plaza, Hilton, and Juweira Boutique hotels. For a refreshing drink, stop at any of the many roadside vendors selling fresh coconut. They will lop the top off a green coconut for you for 200-300 baizas.
Salalah is a very safe place. However, the Salalah (Arab) way of driving might need some getting used to for non-Arabs. Don't go swimming in the sea or permit toddlers/children to wander off at beaches. The sea has very strong ocean currents and the seabed has a steep drop off, making it very unsafe for swimmers, experienced or beginner.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
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In Jul, Salalah typically sees ~30°C daytime highs and 7 rainy days.
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