Oman opens world’s largest inflatable amusement park in Salalah

Dubai: Oman officially launched the 2025 Dhofar Khareef season with the opening of Ateen Square in Salalah, a sprawling cultural and entertainment hub that now houses the world’s largest inflatable amusement park.

Designed to serve as the main venue for the Governorate’s seasonal festivities, Ateen Square is set to run until August 31, offering a mix of tourism, heritage, and family-friendly programming tailored to both residents and international visitors.

This year’s edition features a striking redesign, combining traditional elements with interactive attractions that underscore Oman’s ambitions as a regional cultural destination.

Ateen Square has been outfitted with upgraded infrastructure, including a new central stage inspired by Dhofar’s rugged mountain ranges and equipped with laser projections, digital screens, and artificial waterfalls that serve as a dynamic backdrop for nightly performances.

At the heart of the venue is the record-breaking inflatable amusement park, a sprawling complex of bounce zones, obstacle courses, and slides under close supervision, providing children with a safe and stimulating environment.

Adjacent to the play area, small businesses led by Omani women offer artisanal perfumes, garments, and incense, a nod to the region’s entrepreneurial spirit and its deep-rooted cultural heritage.

Programming at Ateen Square has been expanded to include international participation and thematic entertainment with standout acts including Galaxy Show, a performance blending acrobatics with immersive lighting and space-age costumes; and the Emoji Show, where 20 digital-era characters come to life in a high-energy performance for younger audiences. Other acts include eco-friendly fireworks, drone light displays, and a Got Talent-inspired stunt show that weaves together sport and artistry.

A European carnival ensemble, a traditional Mexican troupe, and UNESCO-curated folklore acts contribute to the global atmosphere, while themed events like the Balloon Carnival and Peter Carnival showcase imaginative costuming and choreographed parades.

One of the most anticipated features this year is the new Culture and Literature Street, an open space dedicated to poetry readings, live painting, and writing workshops. Organisers describe it as a platform for cultural exchange and creativity, offering visitors a chance to interact with Omani artists and authors in real time.