Consumer Protection Authority steps up efforts for 2025 Khareef season

Times of Oman

20 hours ago

Muscat: The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) in Dhofar Governorate is intensifying its efforts through a comprehensive field awareness campaign under the slogan 'Your trust is our destination'. The campaign coincides with the 2025 Khareef Tourism Season and aligns with the broader strategy launched by the Dhofar Governor's Office and Oman Vision 2040.
Dr Taie bin Salem Al Junaibi, Acting Director General of Consumer Protection in Dhofar, stated that the Authority is conducting field campaigns to verify suppliers' and vendors' compliance with regulations and controls. It also aims to curb misleading commercial practices that may target visitors or residents during the Khareef season, while strengthening communication channels with consumers to receive and efficiently address reports and complaints.
Dr Al Junaibi explained that the campaign, launching this July, includes various field activities across the governorate — including in shopping malls, tourist sites, community institutions, and the Authority's office in Atin, which will be open to visitors from July until the end of September. The campaign targets a wide audience, with a special focus on visitors, families, and children.
The campaign will feature a range of awareness-raising methods, including interactive booths, workshops, and visual presentations. Additionally, several modern technological tools will be used, such as virtual reality (VR) glasses, interactive screens, and educational tablets to introduce children to the 'Young Consumer' app. Children will also engage with colourable drawings and other interactive activities designed to promote the concepts of conscious consumption and consumer rights, alongside entertainment segments held in open spaces.
A mobile exhibition showcasing prohibited and non-compliant goods will also tour the area, using real-life examples to raise awareness of potential dangers and teach consumers how to verify product safety. Smart stands will be installed at Salalah Airport and the Harit border crossing, offering digital codes that provide direct access to campaign information and the Authority's e-services. Awareness billboards will also be placed along public roads and in major markets.
The Authority will also organise the second Consumer Protection Forum under the theme 'Foundations and rights of tourists and residents'. The forum will explore consumer protection issues specific to the Khareef season, with a focus on the needs and rights of tourists and residents—two key pillars of Dhofar's commercial and tourism activity.
Dr Al Junaibi further stated that inspection visits to markets in Dhofar during the first half of 2025 totalled 19,582, with 14,317 visits made to establishments. The Directorate received 555 consumer complaints during this period, achieving a 97% resolution rate, and 214 reports, with a 99% resolution rate.
The Consumer Protection Authority is committed to fostering collaboration with various public and private entities through coordinated efforts, shared roles, and logistical and informational support. These efforts aim to ensure a successful tourism season and deliver a positive, integrated experience for both visitors and residents.