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DHOFAR REGION :
This region, a masterpiece of nature's artistry and generosity,
lies in the extreme south of Oman.
Bordered by Al Wusta region in the east, the Arabian Sea to
the south, the Republic of Yemen in the south west and Saudi
Arabia across the "Empty Quarter" of Al Rub Al Khali
in the north west. It covers an area of 100,000 sq. km and Salalah
is the administrative capital, with all modern facilities.
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Dhofar is climatically different from the rest of Oman
due to the effects of the monsoon rains which occur between
June and September. Temperature is moderate, rarely exceeding
30 degrees Celcius. Dhofar divides naturally into three
areas: the coastal plain, the mountains and the desert. |
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Freshwater
wells and natural springs originating in the mountains supply
an abundance of water to the coastal plain enabling agriculture
to thrive. Bananas, coconuts, sugar cane, papaya, cereal and
animal fodder crops are cultivated. Three mountain ranges run
the length of Dhofar.
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the impact of the monsoon the whole area turns into a verdant
paradise. Rub al Khali, the desert, has many treacherous areas
of salt flats, which in turn give way to low dunes eventually
becoming a dune-covered "sand sea." Water and vegetation
is sparse. Buried beneath the sands, old caravan routes and
the "lost city" of Ubar, have recently been discovered. |
The
climate in Dhofar is perfect for the growth of the olibanum/frankincense
tree. History reflects that frankincense was an extremely precious
commodity in ancient times. Transported by vast caravans across
the Arabian peninsula to Iraq and Egypt, it was then taken to
Europe. The Queen of Sheba travelled to the area to harvest
and collect frankincense – it is said that she also made offerings
of this precious commodity to King Solomon. |
The Arabian Sea provides an abundance of fish, including lobster
and sardines. The vast coastline has many lagoons attracting
wildlife, in particular migrant birds. The pristine beaches
offer plenty of scope for watersports. The mountains expose
dramatic scenery and the whole region is rich in archaeological
sites. Accommodation, restaurants and shopping facilities are
very good.
Desert
Discovery Tours :
Providing "that special touch" is our motto - you
are assured of constant, reliable service. |
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REGIONS
:
Map
Musandam
Al
Batinah
Al
Dhahirah
Al
Dakhilya
Muscat
Al
Sharqiya
Al
Wusta
Dhofar |