The city of Salalah in southern Oman is the second largest in the country. The city is home to the ruins of a fortified town from the early first millennium, and nearby the ruins of a frankincense trading port can also be found. The nearby mountains with their abundant frankincense trees draw many visitors seeking the beauties of the lush countryside.

Despite its close proximity to the Arabian Desert, the area has a tropical climate most of the year, with hot, humid weather in the summer. There is a monsoon season from late June to early September that is known as the khareef season. This period draws many visitors from other parts of the country as well as from across the Persian Gulf, and the city organizes a number of fairs and festivals during this time, which is heavily influenced by and important to the tourist trade.

The area’s climate supports a surprising array of wildlife including leopards and hyenas, and the beaches and coastlines are excellent for diving and bird watching activities.