logo
Efforts in full swing to protect tourist sites in Dhofar: EA

Efforts in full swing to protect tourist sites in Dhofar: EA

Observer17-07-2025
SALALAH: As Dhofar welcomes thousands of visitors for the 2025 Khareef season, the Environment Authority has launched a timely initiative aimed at preserving the region's natural beauty.
Under the banner of 'Environmental Protectors', the campaign seeks to strengthen awareness and encourage shared responsibility for protecting the governorate's rich ecosystems during the busy tourism period.
The initiative, spearheaded by the General Directorate of Environment in Dhofar, reflects the growing need to balance tourism growth with environmental preservation.
With the surge in seasonal footfall, particularly in natural and heritage sites, pressure on local ecosystems has intensified.
Engineer Zahran Al Abdulsalam, Acting Director General of Environment in Dhofar Governorate, said the initiative is about more than enforcement — it's about cultivating a culture of environmental respect.
'Khareef is a vital season for Dhofar's economy and identity,' he said. 'But it also brings challenges to the natural environment. The 'Environmental Protectors' initiative was designed to ensure that visitors can enjoy the beauty of Dhofar without compromising its ecological integrity.'
As part of the campaign, four specialised supervisory teams have been assigned to assist existing environmental units in Salalah, Taqah, and Mirbat, as well as other key areas. These teams will patrol major tourist and natural sites, monitor compliance with environmental laws, and raise awareness among the public.
Al Abdulsalam underscored that success depends on collective action. 'Preserving Dhofar's environment is not the sole duty of government institutions. Visitors, residents, civil society groups — all of us must be partners in this mission.'
He added that the initiative supports Oman's wider commitment to sustainable development, as outlined in Vision 2040. By embedding environmental values into tourism practices, the campaign aspires to make sustainability a shared priority — not just for today, but for generations to come.
The 'Environmental Protectors' initiative will run throughout the Khareef season, serving as a model for how environmental responsibility can enhance, rather than hinder, the visitor experience.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Al Wusta Wetlands Reserve gets Ramsar certification
Al Wusta Wetlands Reserve gets Ramsar certification

Muscat Daily

time16 hours ago

  • Muscat Daily

Al Wusta Wetlands Reserve gets Ramsar certification

Muscat – Environment Authority has announced an achievement in environmental conservation. Oman has obtained the official Ramsar Convention accreditation certificate listing Al Wusta Wetlands Reserve in Mahout as a Wetland of International Importance. Prior to this, Qurm Nature Reserve and Al Ansab Wetland were designated as Ramsar Sites in 2013 and 2020 respectively. The new listing came within the framework of activities of the 15th Conference of the Parties to the Ramsar Convention (COP15), currently being held in Zimbabwe till July 31, under the slogan 'Protecting Wetlands for Our Shared Future'. 'This international recognition crowns the efforts of the sultanate in preserving biodiversity and reflects its commitment to implementing international environmental standards to protect fragile ecosystems,' EA stated. The reserve is a vibrant mosaic of ecosystems, boasting rare biological diversity both regionally and globally. This makes it a unique site for biodiversity studies and sustainable wetland utilisation, especially in the intertidal zone. Spread over an area of about 214mn hectares, the reserve houses a plethora of ecosystems exhibiting high environmental sensitivity. From natural marine islands, bays, creeks and coastal dunes to expansive landfills, salt flats, gravel plains and wild grasses, the reserve is a repository of ecological riches. The marine life too is diverse, inclusive of rare entities like the Arabian Sea humpback whale, along with other whales and dolphins. Additionally, the area along the coast of Mahout Island in Ghubbat Hashish showcases the largest undisturbed concentration of mangrove trees in Oman, covering about 162 hectares. The reserve's natural allure has the potential to draw nature enthusiasts, bird watchers and wildlife admirers, which can directly boost eco-tourism – a conduit to bolster the national economy through environmentally sustainable projects and investment opportunities, abiding by local and international laws to ensure the preservation and efficient utilisation of natural resources.

IHG Hotels & Resorts announces first voco hotel in Oman
IHG Hotels & Resorts announces first voco hotel in Oman

Observer

timea day ago

  • Observer

IHG Hotels & Resorts announces first voco hotel in Oman

IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of a management agreement for voco Muscat Al Mouj, a 251-key beachfront hotel set to open in Q4 2025. Alongside Golden Group Holding, the deal marks the first signing of the voco brand in the Sultanate of Oman, further expanding IHG's premium portfolio across the Middle East. The new hotel will cater to both leisure and business travellers. Its prime location offers easy access to Muscat International Airport and proximity to the city's cultural landmarks, making it a strategic addition to Oman's evolving hospitality landscape. Launched in 2018, voco is IHG's fastest-growing premium brand, already making its mark with openings and signings across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Known for its bold identity and thoughtful touches, the brand blends the character of individual hotels with the benefits of a trusted global name, offering guests a reliably different experience. Upon opening, voco Muscat Al Mouj will join the brand's growing portfolio of more than 100 open hotels globally and a robust pipeline of more than 95 properties. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, India, Middle East & Africa, said: "We are delighted to bring the voco brand to Oman in partnership with Golden Group Holding. Al Mouj Muscat is one of the region's most exciting lifestyle destinations, and we believe voco's distinctive charm and premium hospitality offering makes it a perfect fit for the destination. This signing reflects our commitment to supporting Oman Vision 2040 by contributing to the country's tourism and economic diversification strategy." Sheikh Salem Al Ghazal, Chairman, Golden Group Holding, said, 'Partnering with IHG to introduce voco to Oman is a significant milestone in our journey to enhance Muscat's hospitality offering. voco's blend of informal charm and global quality perfectly complements the dynamic spirit of Al Mouj. We look forward to delivering a hotel that embodies excellence, reflects Omani hospitality, and attracts travellers from across the globe." When it opens later this year, voco Muscat Al Mouj will offer 251 designed rooms and suites, along with five distinct dining experiences, including an all-day dining venue, specialty restaurant, and lobby lounge. The hotel will feature three meeting rooms, a spa, swimming pool, fitness centre, business centre, ample parking, and a barber shop – providing guests with a well-rounded premium stay experience. IHG currently operates 9 hotels across five brands in Oman, including: Six Senses, InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, and Holiday Inn, with 3 hotels in the development pipeline set to open within the next three to five years.

SalamAir reconnects Muscat and Beirut with direct flights
SalamAir reconnects Muscat and Beirut with direct flights

Muscat Daily

time6 days ago

  • Muscat Daily

SalamAir reconnects Muscat and Beirut with direct flights

SalamAir, Oman's low-cost airline, proudly announces the return of Beirut, Lebanon, to its flight schedule, with direct flights operating twice a week starting December 3rd, 2025. This move comes as part of SalamAir's broader strategy to expand its regional network and enhance air connectivity across the Middle East and beyond. The reintroduction of Beirut marks a key milestone in the airline's continued growth and commitment to offering affordable, flexible and various travel options to its customers. Beirut is a cultural and historical gem offering stunning Mediterranean coastlines, world-class cuisine, and a rich blend of ancient and modern heritage. The city attracts tourists year-round, and its significance as a regional hub for business and leisure makes it a highly desirable destination for travelers from Oman and beyond. Adrian Hamilton-Manns, Chief Executive Officer of SalamAir, commented: 'Bringing Beirut back to our network reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening air connectivity and enhancing travel options for our guests. There is a significant Lebanese population in Oman, and currently, there are no direct flights between the two countries. Our new service aims to fill that gap, offering greater convenience and supporting increased tourism, trade, and business opportunities. This move also aligns with the broader objectives of Oman Vision 2040, particularly in advancing the tourism and logistics sectors and driving economic diversification. As always, we continue to expand with competitive Lite Fares and easy add-ons to ensure real value for our guests.' H E Albert Samaha, Ambassador of Lebanon to Oman, welcomed the resumption, stating: 'These long-awaited flights serve as a vital link for the Lebanese community residing in Oman and facilitate easier access to their homeland. It also paves the way for enhanced tourism, cultural interaction, and bilateral cooperation between our two nations. We sincerely thank the Civil Aviation Authority of Oman and SalamAir for realizing this shared vision.' This addition affirms SalamAir`s role as one of the region's fastest-growing low-cost carriers and a key contributor to Oman's Vision 2040 goals of enhancing tourism, connectivity, and economic diversification. Passengers can book their tickets via SalamAir's website and the mobile app.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store