The city of Salalah is famous as the jewel of southern Oman. Its beauty really differs from the rest of the Arabian Peninsula. This city is rich in archaeological treasures and attractions like white sand beaches, banana plantations, and above all, its glossy landscapes during the Khareef monsoon.
Salalah is a haven for history lovers as well as nature and beach enthusiasts. In the summer season Aroohas Salalah tour packages from Dubai offers respite from the intense Gulf heat with cooler temperatures. The region also houses warm natural springs, mountain ranges, the Tomb of Prophet Ayub and various other cultural sites, making it feel as if one is escaping from the typical desert setting.
The citizens of Dubai, which is part of the UAE, can travel freely to all GCC countries. This includes Oman, so no visa application is necessary for Salalah travel from Dubai. On the other hand, a non-citizen UAE resident must apply for a visa prior to visiting Oman. Even with a Dubai residence visa, residents are not granted automatic admission and must apply based on the purpose of their visit.
The optimum time to visit Salalah from UAE is in the Khareef season around late June to early September. During this monsoon period, the region transforms into a panoramic oasis with overflowing waterfalls. March to May, and September to November spring and autumn also have easy weather and less tourist footfall. The winter is usually mild too and hence good for sightseeing. If not aiming to visit during Khareef, it is better to steer clear of the peak heat in May.
Travelers who visit Salalah get varied options to choose from in terms of accommodation. Al Baleed Resort by Anantara is a high end resort so it provides direct access to the beach along with luxurious experiences. Salalah Rotana Resort is also popular among families and long stays because of its spacious villas and views. Haffa House and Salalah Gardens Hotel are city hotels and hence good for budget travelers. Most resorts are located near the beach and also close to the mountains and other cultural places.
As residents of Dubai, you can reach Salalah within 2 hours by using the direct flight option. Airlines will operate 3 to 5 weekly flights between Dubai and Salalah. Therefore, you can use: Air Arabia, Fly Dubai, Oman Air.
As we all know, 12 to 16 hours will be needed to reach Salalah from Dubai if you use a bus journey. Usually departing from Deira or Gold Souq Metro Station, with 45-seat air-conditioned buses. Alemarat Express-type companies will operate most of these buses. If you are a budget traveler, you can choose a bus option which makes 30% of UAE to Salalah travel.
Travelers can start their adventure with a direct flight from Dubai to Salalah, which is under two hours. Cabs and rental vehicles are waiting at the airport. The city is small enough that most destinations can be reached on foot. With tour packages, airport transfers, breakfasts are usually included, along with optional guided tours to surrounding places, indulging in effortless organized stays.
Transportation around Salalah is well equipped with taxis, private cars, as well as rented ones. Tourists renting a car are more likely to hire a driver for the day to visit Mughsail Beach, Ayn Khor, and Wadi Darbat. Due to the limited availability of public transport, pre-arranged tours offer the most convenience and flexibility.
Salalah is famous for its lush greenery during the monsoon season, thus making the visit to Wadi Darbat for its waterfalls and boat rides unforgettable. Other sites include Mughsail Beach which has steep cliffs and blowholes, along with the Frankincense Land Museum and Al Baleed, both UNESCO sites. For a more historical experience, visit The Tomb of Prophet Ayub hidden within the hills or explore Ayn Athum which is famous for its serene mountain springs. Spices, frankincense, and Omani handicrafts are available at the local souks which can be bought as souvenirs.
Omani dishes are considered a combination of Arabic, Persian, and Indian cuisines making it delicious. During your UAE to Salalah travel plan make sure to try maqboos, grilled fish, or lentil soups. Refreshing drinks such as coconut water and sugarcane juice are also available. Eating at the beach and looking out into the Arabian Sea is an experience you cannot miss. Shuwa, a dish consisting of marinated meat slow cooked underground served during celebrations, is a unique food to try. Also be sure to grab some wet halwa, an addictive sweet made with rosewater and saffron sold in local sweet shops and markets.
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