Overview
Dhofar Governorate is Oman’s tourism and trade hub — Oman’s second-largest governorate — home to Salalah (second city), the Khareef monsoon season, UNESCO frankincense sites, and the Port of Salalah.
Population: Approximately 0.4mn
Key economic assets:
- Port of Salalah (major transhipment hub)
- Salalah Free Zone
- Khareef tourism
- UNESCO World Heritage sites
Vision 2040 Role
Vision 2040’s well-being and regional balance priority targets ensuring that economic development benefits reach all governorates — not just the Muscat capital region. Dhofar Governorate’s development is tracked as part of the ‘complete neighbourhood’ infrastructure programme and regional economic development initiatives.
Strategic Significance
Understanding Dhofar Governorate’s economic geography is essential for investors targeting Oman’s Vision 2040 opportunities — particularly in sectors where the governorate has specific competitive advantages.
For detailed analysis, see the geographic deep dives and investment intelligence sections.