Salalah Khareef, Luxury Resorts and the Land of Frankincense

Salalah, capital of the Dhofar region, has two personalities. From late June to early September the khareef monsoon wraps the mountains in mist and light rain, and the hillsides turn emerald green with waterfalls and grazing camels, drawing visitors from across the Gulf. The rest of the year brings sunshine and long empty beaches lined with coconut palms and banana plantations.

This is also the heart of the ancient incense trade. The frankincense trees of Wadi Dawkah and the ruined ports of Al Baleed and Sumhuram are inscribed by UNESCO as the Land of Frankincense; our page on trade routes and the incense road tells the story. For country essentials, see our Oman luxury vacation guide.

The resorts offer Salalah's most polished dining, from lagoon-side terraces to Arabic and Asian restaurants, with Anantara and Alila standing out. In town, try roadside stands selling fresh coconut water and bananas from the plantations, and local restaurants serving Dhofari dishes such as mishkak skewers and fresh fish.