Thrifty enhances service as Dhofar region prepares for increased tourist traffic

Thrifty Car Rental has opted to capitalize on this era of growth and development in the Sultanate by actively participating in a number of events organized by the government to highlight Oman's natural beauty and tremendous potential as the cultural capital of the Middle East.

This summer, the car rental company will be offering enhanced services to the influx of visitors expected from across the GCC to Salalah and other cities in Dhofar during the annual 'Khareef' festival, which occurs between July and August, and celebrates the cultural heritage of Oman.

Thanks to Thrifty's significant presence across the Middle East, visitors can make prior arrangements at any Thrifty outlet in the region including booking a car for use in Oman, organizing drop-offs, pick-up's and other related services.

"Studies have shown that the car rental industry is an integral part of the hospitality sector here in the Middle East. Thrifty's 24-hour presence, personalized service and quality vehicles have enabled us to become the car rental company of choice for visitors to Oman during peak seasons like the very popular Khareef festival," said Murtadha Jaffer, chairman and managing director, Thrifty Oman.

The 'Khareef' festival is named after the monsoon winds that sweep across Dhofar from June to September cooling the blazing summer temperatures to a pleasant 25 degrees celsius and turning the arid landscape into a lush, green oasis making it the ideal getaway destination for GCC residents looking for a break from the scorching summer heat.

Salalah, a centre of tradition and art, is the capital of Dhofar, the most southerly of Oman's provinces. Several important archaeological sites are to be found there and the area's abundant ecology attracts anglers, bird watchers and hikers throughout the year. This part of Oman benefits from the warm turquoise seas of the Indian Ocean and the beaches here are relatively quiet and unspoilt.

During the month-long festival, Dhofar plays host to a wide variety of family events focused on sports, art, music, and shopping. Archeological sites, the Frankincense trail and traditional souqs are some of the other attractions. For nature lovers, there are mist-soaked mountains, green-cloaked valleys, freshwater springs and waterfalls to enjoy.

"Thrifty Car Rental has recently added to its collection of reliable, efficient sport-utility vehicles. With considerable storage space for luggage and holiday packages, these are a great rental option for families visiting the Dhofar region this summer," added Jaffer.

One of the fastest-growing organizations within the Dollar Thrifty Middle East franchise network, Thrifty Oman maintains a large inventory of quality vehicles in Oman, as well as 4 conveniently located outlets, to meet the automotive rental needs of tourists, business travelers, and residents. These can be found at Salalah airport, Muscat airport and at downtown locations in both cities.

Globally, Thrifty serves more than 1,000 locations in Africa; Asia; the Caribbean; Europe; the Middle East; North, Central and South America and the Pacific.