The Salalah Eye observation wheel, currently under construction in Al Haffa, is poised to become a significant addition to Dhofar Governorate’s tourism infrastructure. Rising 55 meters above the waterfront, the attraction will offer panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding cityscape. Situated near the New Haffa Souq, the project is scheduled to open in early July, coinciding with the start of the Khareef season.
The installation of the Salalah Eye forms part of a broader initiative to enhance Salalah’s appeal as a year-round tourist destination and to diversify the visitor experience in the region. Once operational, the observation wheel is expected to serve as a new landmark on Salalah’s waterfront, contributing to increased tourism-related investments and supporting economic activity linked to the hospitality, retail, and entertainment sectors.
The launch of the Salalah Eye comes amid preparations for the upcoming Khareef season, which runs from Sunday through September 21. Government bodies, including the Dhofar Municipality, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Royal Oman Police, Civil Aviation Authority, and Environment Authority, are collaborating with private sector stakeholders to ensure that facilities, entertainment venues, and service centers are fully equipped to welcome both domestic and international tourists.
Dhofar’s tourism sector has experienced steady growth in recent years. Data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information shows that the Khareef season attracted 1,070,738 visitors in 2025, a rise from 1,047,751 in 2024 and 962,196 in 2023. Correspondingly, visitor spending increased to RO 125 million in 2025, up from RO 121 million the previous year and RO 103 million in 2023. This upward trend underscores the season’s expanding impact on accommodation, transport, retail, entertainment, and small businesses throughout the governorate.
The introduction of the Salalah Eye, together with ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and services, aims to strengthen Dhofar’s position as a premier tourist destination in Oman, capitalizing on its unique natural environment and cultural heritage.