How to travel from the UAE to Salalah during the Khareef season

Dubai: As temperatures in the UAE and across the Gulf soar past 43°C, the thought of misty hills, light rain and green valleys feels almost unreal. But just under two hours away by flight lies Salalah, a coastal city in Oman’s Dhofar region, where the Khareef, the annual monsoon season has transformed the landscape into a lush, cool retreat.

With schools on summer break in a few days, it is the perfect time for a short escape from the heat.

Whether you want to watch waterfalls gush from rocky cliffs, chase waterfalls, explore foggy valleys, or watch waves crash along rocky shores, here’s everything you need to know before heading to Salalah.

 ‘Khareef’ means ‘autumn’ in Arabic, but in Salalah, it refers to the unique monsoon season that brings cooler weather, constant drizzle, and mist-covered landscapes between June and September.

This seasonal shift completely transforms the dry, desert surroundings into rolling green hills, flowing rivers, and fertile valleys. A rare climate event in the Arabian Peninsula and one draws thousands of visitors from across the region every year.

Khareef began on June 21 and typically lasts until September 20. During this period, seasonal monsoon winds and moisture-laden clouds from the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean sweep into southern Oman, bathing the Dhofar region in light rain and cool mist.

Salalah is a favourite summer destination for many Gulf residents, especially from the UAE, thanks to its mild climate, natural beauty, and unique weather. While temperatures in the UAE can hover around 42°C, Salalah enjoys daytime temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C during Khareef.

The lush greenery, fog-covered mountains, hidden caves, and gushing waterfalls turn the region into a tropical wonderland. In 2024 alone, the city welcomed over one million visitors during the Khareef season, a nine per cent rise from the previous year.

Salalah is easily accessible from the UAE by both air and road, offering flexible options for travellers.

Salalah International Airport is served by several airlines operating direct flights from the UAE. These include Emirates, flydubai, Wizz Air, and Air Arabia. Oman’s national carrier Oman Air, along with SalamAir, also offer frequent flights to Salalah.

SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost carrier, offers round-trip fares for under Dh600. FlyDubai’s one-way tickets start at Dh520, while Air Arabia flights from Sharjah typically cost between Dh700 and Dh800 for a round trip.

The flight duration is typically less than two hours, making it ideal for a quick weekend getaway.

For those who prefer to drive, the journey to Salalah from the UAE covers approximately 1,300 kilometres, taking between 14 to 18 hours depending on the chosen route and border crossing. Travellers can cross into Oman via multiple border points, including:

Before driving, travellers must ensure they have valid car insurance that covers Oman, a valid passport and UAE residence visa, and pay an exit fee of Dh35. After entering Oman through the Mezyad border, drivers can follow Route 31 south toward Dhofar.

Several UAE-based travel agencies offer organised bus tours to Salalah, particularly popular during Khareef season. These typically include transportation, hotel accommodation, meals, guided tours, and visa assistance. A standard package for a two-night, three-day trip costs around Dh1,000.

During Khareef, Dhofar’s landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation. Green mountains, misty valleys, and powerful waterfalls become major attractions for visitors.

Wadi Darbat: One of the most visited spots, Wadi Darbat offers incredibly scenic boat rides, captivating flowing waterfalls, and lush, vibrant valleys. Local vendors often sell fresh fruit and delicious snacks, enhancing the experience.

Ain Adh Dhabdhab: Located about 37 kilometers from Salalah’s city center, this perennial spring becomes especially vibrant and full during Khareef. The flowing water and surrounding greenery make it a truly picturesque destination.

Ain Rub Waterfall: Situated at a higher elevation, Ain Rub provides breathtaking panoramic views of waterfalls cutting gracefully through the mountain slopes, offering visitors a serene and unforgettable escape.

Ain Arzat and the Anti-Gravity Road: East of Salalah, Ain Arzat’s natural springs attract many visitors seeking refreshment. Nearby, the famous ‘anti-gravity road’ offers a unique optical illusion where cars appear to roll uphill, creating a truly memorable and fun experience.

Al Mughsail Beach: Known for its dramatic coastline and fascinating natural blowholes, Al Mughsail Beach allows visitors to witness seawater surging powerfully through holes in the rocky cliffs, creating towering jets of water. The beach’s rugged beauty makes it one of Salalah’s most iconic and must-see sights.

Salalah offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

Popular mid-range and family-friendly hotels include Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah, Salalah Rotana Resort, Hilton Salalah, and Millennium Resort Salalah.

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara offers beachfront villas and private pool suites set along pristine coastline. The resort provides direct beach access, spa services, and a peaceful tropical setting ideal for relaxation.

If arriving by air:

Apply in advance for an eVisa via Oman’s official platform: evisa.rop.gov.om. Choose the ‘GCC Resident Visa’, which costs OMR 5 (approx. Dh47.50) and allows you to stay for 30 days.

Residents of GCC countries have the option to obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport, although securing an eVisa beforehand can be more time-efficient. Additionally, Oman offers visa-free entry for up to 14 days to citizens from more than 100 different countries.

If arriving by road:

Most UAE residents can get a visa on arrival, valid for 14 days, stamped at the Omani border. To be eligible, make sure you carry: