Oman Airports records 2% growth in passenger traffic
This growth is attributed to the ongoing efforts of Oman Airports, in cooperation with relevant authorities, to enhance the Sultanate's position as an attractive year-round tourist destination by providing quality facilities at airports and improving the traveler experience from the moment of arrival until departure.
Oman Airports said that the start of the Dhofar Khareef season is an additional factor in attracting visitors, given the Governorate's stunning nature and unique atmosphere during this season.
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Times of Oman
a day ago
- Times of Oman
ROP deploys comprehensive security plan for Dhofar's Khareef season
Muscat: The Dhofar Governorate Police Command is playing a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and security of visitors during the Dhofar Khareef season. The command is intensifying its security presence and deploying patrols across key tourist sites to maintain public order and provide a rapid, professional response to all incidents. According to Lieutenant Colonel Akif Al Rawas, Director of Operations at the Dhofar Governorate Police, the governorate's operations center is active around the clock. It receives and responds to a wide range of reports, from traffic accidents to requests for assistance, and coordinates closely with relevant civil sectors. Al Rawas noted that traffic accidents constitute the largest proportion of reports during the Khareef season. He attributed this to some visitors' lack of familiarity with driving in mountainous areas, which are often shrouded in fog. To address this, the Dhofar Governorate Police Command has activated three temporary police centers at locations that see a high influx of visitors: Al Mughsail Beach, Itin Plain, and Wadi Darbat. Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed bin Saeed Ghawas, Assistant Director of Dhofar Traffic, detailed a comprehensive traffic plan. This plan includes deploying patrols on main roads, roundabouts, and at event locations to regulate traffic flow and ease potential congestion. Ghawas also mentioned the inauguration of the seventh edition of the Traffic Awareness Exhibition at Salalah Gardens Mall, an initiative designed to promote traffic safety culture and discipline among the public. However, Ghawas also highlighted several observed negative behaviors, such as reckless driving, stunt driving, driving on green areas, children leaning out of vehicle windows, and using mobile phones while driving. He emphasized that the department is taking firm action against these violations and will intensify patrols to curb such actions. He urged visitors to ensure their vehicles are in good condition, get adequate rest, adhere to speed limits, maintain safe distances, and use heavy gear when descending slopes. The Coast Guard Police is also an integral part of the safety plan. Major Alawi bin Hafiz Al Haddad, Assistant Commander of the Coast Guard Police in Dhofar Governorate, confirmed the deployment of marine rescue patrols to popular beaches to enhance field presence and ensure a rapid response to incidents. Despite their ongoing awareness campaigns, which warn of high waves and strong currents, some visitors are still observed swimming in dangerous conditions or standing on the edge of rocky cliffs for photos. Al Haddad cautioned fishermen as well, noting the dangers posed by high waves and the failure to follow safety instructions. He confirmed that the Coast Guard has a dedicated rescue team with trained personnel and modern equipment ready to respond to emergencies. Furthermore, the Special Tasks Unit has intensified its security deployment at various tourist sites and festivals, as stated by Major Khalifa bin Jumaa Al Quwaiti, Assistant Commander. This unit provides crucial support to other police formations and ensures rapid intervention when necessary. The Mounted Police are also actively involved, using their unique mobility to reach locations like Atin Plain and Al Dahariz Beach that are difficult for vehicles to access, providing assistance and addressing violations. At Salalah Airport, the General Directorate of Airport Security has stepped up its efforts to manage the increased passenger flow. First Lieutenant Khalid bin Omar Al-Humairi confirmed that teams are working to facilitate entry and exit procedures to accommodate the rising number of visitors efficiently.
Observer
6 days ago
- Observer
Oman Airports expands drive to boost aviation logistics hub
MUSCAT: Oman Airports has signed a new lease agreement to develop a specialised facility for aircraft tyre and brake repairs at Muscat International Airport, reinforcing its strategic vision to transform airport land into a vibrant economic and logistics ecosystem. The agreement was signed by Ahmed bin Said al Amri, Chief Executive Officer of Oman Airports, and Hussein bin Abdullah al Haddad, Chairman of the Board of Directors of United Summit Business Company. The project will be established on a 7,274-square-metre plot within the second phase of the Air Cargo Gateway – Logistics Area, with an estimated investment of RO 5 million. Mach Aerospace International will operate the facility, which will offer inspection, repair and rehabilitation services for wheels and brakes of Airbus A320 and Boeing 787 aircraft, in line with global technical and operational standards. The workshop is expected to enhance operational efficiency and safety at the airport. Al Amri said the agreement marks the beginning of Oman Airports' recently launched investment strategy for land development around Muscat International Airport. 'We have developed an integrated master plan to fully leverage the area's potential by developing quality projects aligned with our long-term vision,' he stated. He added that the initiative aims to enhance the airport's commercial profile by expanding hospitality, entertainment and service offerings — thus increasing the land's investment value and boosting returns from joint and direct ventures. 'The agreement forms part of a broader strategy to turn airport lands into dynamic economic and logistics platforms, supporting Oman's economic diversification and positioning the Sultanate of Oman as a key regional aviation and services hub,' Al Amri noted. For his part, Al Haddad described the agreement as a milestone in public-private partnership efforts to unlock the investment potential of Muscat International Airport City. 'This facility responds to the rising demand for technical support due to the surge in passenger and flight numbers. Its presence within the airport will help reduce turnaround delays during technical emergencies,' he said. — ONA
Muscat Daily
29-07-2025
- Muscat Daily
Frankincense Market in Salalah highlights Dhofar's heritage
Salalah – The Frankincense Market for artisanal families at Al Hafa Beach in Salalah held as part of 2025 Dhofar Khareef festivities is attracting a large number of visitors. Organised by Dhofar Municipality, the market supports over 300 artisanal families and small businesses from across Oman. It features a variety of handicrafts, traditional Omani foods and locally produced goods, offering visitors a glimpse into the cultural and social fabric of Dhofar. This year, the event has seen several upgrades – expanded display areas, improved public facilities and redesigned stalls modelled on traditional architecture. The enhancements aim to improve visitor experience and enhance the market's role in preserving and promoting heritage. Salem bin Abdullah Fadhel, supervisor of the market, said the scale and diversity of participation this year reflect the support extended by Dhofar Municipality. 'This is not just a market, but a cultural platform that showcases Dhofar's heritage,' he said. Products on display include handmade palm-frond items, incense burners, frankincense products and a variety of traditional Omani foods prepared by local families. Daily performances are staged from 4pm to midnight, featuring folk arts such as Al Habut, Al Bar'ah and Al Madima, as well as children's shows and musical sessions by Omani performers. The market will remain open till the end of the khareef season, reinforcing its role as a cultural and tourism destination while contributing to the local economy and supporting community-based enterprises.
