Crowne Plaza Salalah gears up for tourist boom during Khareef season

In an exclusive interview with Gulf News, Maher Bahsoun, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah, shares his insights on the unique significance of the Khareef season and how the resort prepares to deliver exceptional experiences during this transformative time of year.

What makes the Khareef season such a unique and important time of year for Salalah, and how does it influence regional tourism?
Khareef is unlike anything else in the region. From July to September, Salalah transforms into a lush, misty paradise with green hills, cascading waterfalls, and cool temperatures — a striking contrast to the intense summer heat experienced elsewhere in the Gulf. This natural phenomenon draws thousands of visitors from across Oman, the GCC, and beyond. For tourism, Khareef is more than just a peak season; it’s a deeply immersive and memorable experience that positions Salalah as one of the region’s most refreshing and unexpected destinations.

Why is the Khareef season a strategic focus for Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah, and how has it shaped your planning and operations?
Khareef is at the heart of our annual strategy at Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah. It’s the time when the region is at its most beautiful, and our resort is ideally located to welcome guests eager to explore its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Planning begins months in advance across all departments—from curating themed dining experiences to enhancing our wellness offerings and organizing excursions that showcase the season’s unique beauty. A key focus is creating a family-friendly environment that embraces the spirit of Khareef.

We align our guest experience with the cultural and natural offerings of the season, including access to the Salalah Tourism Festival, traditional Omani music and dance, local markets, and regional cuisine. One highlight is Al Luban (frankincense), which holds deep historical and therapeutic significance and has become a highly sought-after souvenir. Whether guests come to learn about its legacy, purchase it, or simply enjoy its calming effects, frankincense is a key draw. Seasonal activities like guided tours of Wadi Darbat and Al Mughsail Beach, along with wellness treatments inspired by local ingredients, ensure a truly immersive and memorable stay.

How many guests will be visiting this season in your expectations?
While exact numbers are difficult to predict, we anticipate a strong influx of regional travelers, especially from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other GCC countries. Based on current booking trends and steady year-on-year growth, we are preparing for high demand throughout the Khareef season, with occupancy expected to peak in July and August. In 2024, the Khareef season in Dhofar attracted 1,048,000 visitors — a 9 per cent increase from 2023. This upward trend underscores Salalah’s growing status as a premier seasonal destination in the region.

Have you introduced any new services or experiences at the resort this year specifically tailored for Khareef visitors?
Absolutely. This year, we’ve introduced enhanced weekend dining events that capture the essence of Khareef through both taste and ambiance. Dining venues like Ocean Blue Beach House and Dolphin Terrazza offer seasonal menus and scenic settings that reflect the season’s charm. Our Villa Wellness & Spa now features treatments tailored to the cool, misty weather. Additionally, we’ve launched our new Jungle Gym concept — an innovative indoor-outdoor fitness space designed with families in mind.

How do you balance increased operational demands during the season while maintaining service excellence and sustainability?
It comes down to thoughtful planning, strong team cohesion, and purpose-driven leadership. Our service culture is rooted in genuine care—for our guests, our people, and the environment. During Khareef, we enhance efficiency by optimizing energy and water use, reducing single-use plastics, and sourcing ingredients from local, sustainable suppliers. We implement waste reduction strategies and actively participate in community initiatives focused on environmental stewardship. Our team is trained not only to manage increased demand but to embrace it — upholding high standards while contributing positively to long-term ecological and social impact. Sustainability isn’t a sideline — it’s embedded in everything we do.

How do you lead your team to manage the seasonal demands and maintain high performance during such a critical period?
Meeting the demands of Khareef and beyond requires a leadership style centered on empowerment. I believe in giving each team member the confidence and autonomy to take ownership of their roles. Being present, adaptable, and supportive during this intense period is crucial. We foster a strong sense of pride in our work, and when the team feels empowered and trusted, they bring energy and initiative that directly enhance the guest experience. By leading by example, I aim to create an environment where everyone feels motivated and valued—energy that naturally extends to our guests, making each stay unforgettable.

How do you see the resort evolving to remain the top Khareef destination in Oman and the wider region?
We’re committed to a holistic approach that extends beyond the seasonal appeal of Khareef. Our goal is to consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences that blend Dhofar’s rich cultural heritage with world-class hospitality. Our strategy is anchored on three core pillars: Innovation, Sustainability, and People. We continuously upgrade our facilities and refine services. Our commitment to sustainability ensures we preserve the region’s natural beauty while building meaningful partnerships within the local community. Equally important is our investment in talent development—ensuring our team is well-equipped and inspired to offer authentic, heartfelt service. By evolving thoughtfully while staying true to our unique identity, we aim to set a new standard of excellence year-round.