Latest news with #AhmedMohsenAlGhassani
Times of Oman
2 days ago
- General
- Times of Oman
Integration of emotional, artificial intelligence in higher education addressed
Salalah: The third edition of the Summer School for faculty members of higher education institutions in the Sultanate of Oman kicked off on Sunday in Dhofar Governorate. Organised by Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) under the theme 'The Integration of Emotional and Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education," the six-day event is being held at Rotana Salalah Hotel. The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, in the presence of several officials and academic faculty members from higher education institutions. The Summer School is part of Sultan Qaboos University's efforts to support academic development and promote academic tourism during Khareef Dhofar (monsoon) season. It brings together 50 academics and professionals from six higher education institutions across Oman. The Summer School's agenda features interactive workshops, panel discussions, and meetings with local and international experts, aiming to enrich participants' knowledge and raise awareness about fostering future-ready communities through the integration of emotional and artificial intelligence in higher education. Sultan Qaboos University continues to leverage such initiatives to promote a culture of academic excellence and enhance faculty preparedness in adapting to modern educational shifts, aligning with Oman's aspirations for a resilient and integrated higher education system.
Times of Oman
7 days ago
- Business
- Times of Oman
Dhofar Municipality implements internal road projects worth over OMR36 million
Salalah: Dhofar Municipality is implementing a package of projects for the construction and paving of internal and dual carriageways across various wilayats of Dhofar Governorate during 2025, with total lengths estimated at over 300 kilometers and a cost exceeding OMR36 million. These efforts are part of its commitment to enhancing infrastructure and developing the local road network. The projects fall within the framework of the Governorates and Sustainable Cities Development Programme and the developmental projects implemented by Dhofar Municipality, in line with the national priorities of "Oman Vision 2040." They aim to improve the quality of services provided to citizens, residents, and visitors, and to facilitate movement between different residential areas, thereby supporting urban and economic development and enhancing traffic safety. The ongoing and completed works during the current year include the construction and paving of internal roads in the wilayats of Salalah, Taqa, Mirbat, Sadah, Shaleem & Al Hallaniyat Islands, Thumrait, Maqshan, Al Mazyunah, Rakhyut, and Dhalkut, according to a timetable and technical standards that consider public safety requirements and infrastructure sustainability. Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, stated to Oman News Agency (ONA) that the Wilayat of Salalah is witnessing the implementation of internal road totaling approximately 161 kilometers in residential areas within the centre of the wilayat, the plain, and the mountain, at a cost exceeding RO9 million. Additionally, there is a dual carriageway project of Sultan Qaboos Street, with a length of 9 kilometers, which has reached 22 percent completion, at a cost of OMR16.3 million. He added that the municipality will implement a project to pave 40 kilometers of internal roads in the Wilayat of Thumrait, along with a new project to dual Thumrait Street for 4.5 kilometers, including decorative lighting works, with a total cost for both projects reaching over RO 3 million. He also indicated that the municipality has begun implementing a project to pave 32 kilometers of internal roads in the Wilayat of Taqa (in the plain and mountain areas) at a cost of approximately RO 1.7 million, in addition to paving 20 kilometers of roads in the Wilayat of Mirbat at a cost of about RO 995,000, alongside the completion of the Mirbat Street dualization project this year, spanning 3.5 kilometers, at an estimated cost of RO 1.96 million. He pointed out that the municipality has also commenced implementing a project for the construction and paving of 50 kilometers of internal roads distributed across the wilayats of Sadah, Shaleem & Al Hallaniyat Islands, Rakhyut, Dhalkut, and Al Mazyunah, in addition to paving 15 kilometers of internal roads in the Wilayat of Maqshan. Dr. Ahmed affirmed that these projects are part of the government's plan to implement service projects that directly impact the lives of citizens and contribute to achieving balanced urban development covering various wilayats of the governorate, in line with national plans for infrastructure development in the Sultanate of Oman's governorates. It is worth noting that Dhofar Municipality continues to carry out its work in a participatory approach that considers community needs and enhances the efficiency of municipal services and developmental projects in various sectors.
Zawya
14-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Dhofar Municipality signs MoU to develop digital infrastructure
Salalah: In a strategic move aimed at supporting digital transformation and strengthening digital infrastructure in Dhofar Governorate, AWASR signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dhofar Municipality on July 10, to collaborate on the study and implementation of several joint technology and service projects. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life and improve the efficiency of public services throughout the governorate. The MoU was signed at the Dhofar Municipality headquarters in Salalah by Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, and Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, Chief Executive Officer of AWASR. Under the MoU, both parties will collaborate on a variety of initiatives, including the provision of managed Wi-Fi services in tourist sites, public parks, and coastal promenades; connecting municipality-owned buildings with high-performance networks; and exploring the application of modern communication technologies and AI-based solutions to enhance the management of municipal operations and services. One of the key components of the MoU is the provision of free, managed public Wi-Fi in strategic public areas. This service will enable residents and visitors to enjoy seamless and secure internet access in high-traffic locations, thereby enriching the digital tourism experience and promoting domestic tourism. The initiative also supports the creation of a robust digital infrastructure that will serve as a foundation for launching interactive, innovative municipal services, in addition to enabling access to educational content and digital information services in parks and tourist areas. Furthermore, the initiative is expected to facilitate integration with e-payment systems, geospatial services, and community awareness applications, reinforcing Dhofar's image as a technologically advanced destination and paving the way toward a future smart city model. Commenting on the MoU, Dr. AhmedMohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, stated: 'This partnership is vital for enhancing municipal services and improving the overall visitor experience. It represents a key step toward achieving the goals of Oman Vision 2040 by building smart infrastructure and balancing urban development with digital progress.' From his side, Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, CEO of AWASR, affirmed: 'This MoU reflects our deep commitment to supporting government entities in advancing their digital capabilities. We are confident that our partnership with Dhofar Municipality will yield impactful projects that benefit citizens, residents, and tourists alike, and contribute to building smart, tech-enabled communities.' Eugen Comendant, Chief Commercial Officer at AWASR, also commented: 'Providing managed Wi-Fi services in parks and tourist destinations is a key step toward improving the user experience in public spaces and unlocking new potential for digital engagement. This initiative not only supports infrastructure development but also enables opportunities for interactive tourism promotion, community involvement, and safe, connected environments.' This partnership is part of AWASR's broader series of initiatives aimed at supporting smart cities and expanding modern connectivity services across Oman, further reinforcing the company's leading role in driving digital transformation nationwide. About AWASR: AWASR is the first specialized high-speed internet service provider in Oman, offering innovative technology solutions tailored to the needs of individuals and businesses. It was the pioneer in launching 1 Gbps internet services for consumers in 2017, followed by its groundbreaking introduction of 10 Gbps speeds for the first time in Oman in 2024. Through its continued commitment to innovation and quality, AWASR remains at the forefront of enhancing digital connectivity in Oman and supporting digital transformation across all sectors. For more information, please visit our website: s Service Salalah: In a strategic move aimed at supporting digital transformation and strengthening digital infrastructure in Dhofar Governorate, AWASR signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dhofar Municipality on July 10, to collaborate on the study and implementation of several joint technology and service projects. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life and improve the efficiency of public services throughout the governorate. The MoU was signed at the Dhofar Municipality headquarters in Salalah by Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, and Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, Chief Executive Officer of AWASR. Under the MoU, both parties will collaborate on a variety of initiatives, including the provision of managed Wi-Fi services in tourist sites, public parks, and coastal promenades; connecting municipality-owned buildings with high-performance networks; and exploring the application of modern communication technologies and AI-based solutions to enhance the management of municipal operations and services. One of the key components of the MoU is the provision of free, managed public Wi-Fi in strategic public areas. This service will enable residents and visitors to enjoy seamless and secure internet access in high-traffic locations, thereby enriching the digital tourism experience and promoting domestic tourism. The initiative also supports the creation of a robust digital infrastructure that will serve as a foundation for launching interactive, innovative municipal services, in addition to enabling access to educational content and digital information services in parks and tourist areas. Furthermore, the initiative is expected to facilitate integration with e-payment systems, geospatial services, and community awareness applications, reinforcing Dhofar's image as a technologically advanced destination and paving the way toward a future smart city model. Commenting on the MoU, Dr. AhmedMohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, stated: 'This partnership is vital for enhancing municipal services and improving the overall visitor experience. It represents a key step toward achieving the goals of Oman Vision 2040 by building smart infrastructure and balancing urban development with digital progress.' From his side, Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, CEO of AWASR, affirmed: 'This MoU reflects our deep commitment to supporting government entities in advancing their digital capabilities. We are confident that our partnership with Dhofar Municipality will yield impactful projects that benefit citizens, residents, and tourists alike, and contribute to building smart, tech-enabled communities.' Eugen Comendant, Chief Commercial Officer at AWASR, also commented: 'Providing managed Wi-Fi services in parks and tourist destinations is a key step toward improving the user experience in public spaces and unlocking new potential for digital engagement. This initiative not only supports infrastructure development but also enables opportunities for interactive tourism promotion, community involvement, and safe, connected environments.' This partnership is part of AWASR's broader series of initiatives aimed at supporting smart cities and expanding modern connectivity services across Oman, further reinforcing the company's leading role in driving digital transformation nationwide. About AWASR: AWASR is the first specialized high-speed internet service provider in Oman, offering innovative technology solutions tailored to the needs of individuals and businesses. It was the pioneer in launching 1 Gbps internet services for consumers in 2017, followed by its groundbreaking introduction of 10 Gbps speeds for the first time in Oman in 2024. Through its continued commitment to innovation and quality, AWASR remains at the forefront of enhancing digital connectivity in Oman and supporting digital transformation across all sectors. For more information, please visit our website: In a strategic move aimed at supporting digital transformation and strengthening digital infrastructure in Dhofar Governorate, AWASR signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dhofar Municipality on July 10, to collaborate on the study and implementation of several joint technology and service projects. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life and improve the efficiency of public services throughout the governorate. The MoU was signed at the Dhofar Municipality headquarters in Salalah by Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, and Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, Chief Executive Officer of AWASR. Under the MoU, both parties will collaborate on a variety of initiatives, including the provision of managed Wi-Fi services in tourist sites, public parks, and coastal promenades; connecting municipality-owned buildings with high-performance networks; and exploring the application of modern communication technologies and AI-based solutions to enhance the management of municipal operations and services. One of the key components of the MoU is the provision of free, managed public Wi-Fi in strategic public areas. This service will enable residents and visitors to enjoy seamless and secure internet access in high-traffic locations, thereby enriching the digital tourism experience and promoting domestic tourism. The initiative also supports the creation of a robust digital infrastructure that will serve as a foundation for launching interactive, innovative municipal services, in addition to enabling access to educational content and digital information services in parks and tourist areas. Furthermore, the initiative is expected to facilitate integration with e-payment systems, geospatial services, and community awareness applications, reinforcing Dhofar's image as a technologically advanced destination and paving the way toward a future smart city model. Commenting on the MoU, Dr. AhmedMohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, stated: 'This partnership is vital for enhancing municipal services and improving the overall visitor experience. It represents a key step toward achieving the goals of Oman Vision 2040 by building smart infrastructure and balancing urban development with digital progress.' From his side, Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, CEO of AWASR, affirmed: 'This MoU reflects our deep commitment to supporting government entities in advancing their digital capabilities. We are confident that our partnership with Dhofar Municipality will yield impactful projects that benefit citizens, residents, and tourists alike, and contribute to building smart, tech-enabled communities.' Eugen Comendant, Chief Commercial Officer at AWASR, also commented: 'Providing managed Wi-Fi services in parks and tourist destinations is a key step toward improving the user experience in public spaces and unlocking new potential for digital engagement. This initiative not only supports infrastructure development but also enables opportunities for interactive tourism promotion, community involvement, and safe, connected environments.' This partnership is part of AWASR's broader series of initiatives aimed at supporting smart cities and expanding modern connectivity services across Oman, further reinforcing the company's leading role in driving digital transformation nationwide. About AWASR: AWASR is the first specialized high-speed internet service provider in Oman, offering innovative technology solutions tailored to the needs of individuals and businesses. It was the pioneer in launching 1 Gbps internet services for consumers in 2017, followed by its groundbreaking introduction of 10 Gbps speeds for the first time in Oman in 2024. Through its continued commitment to innovation and quality, AWASR remains at the forefront of enhancing digital connectivity in Oman and supporting digital transformation across all sectors. For more information, please visit our website: © Muscat Media Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Times of Oman
12-07-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Dhofar Municipality signs MoU to develop digital infrastructure
Salalah: In a strategic move aimed at supporting digital transformation and strengthening digital infrastructure in Dhofar Governorate, AWASR signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dhofar Municipality on July 10, to collaborate on the study and implementation of several joint technology and service projects. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life and improve the efficiency of public services throughout the governorate. The MoU was signed at the Dhofar Municipality headquarters in Salalah by Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, and Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, Chief Executive Officer of AWASR. Under the MoU, both parties will collaborate on a variety of initiatives, including the provision of managed Wi-Fi services in tourist sites, public parks, and coastal promenades; connecting municipality-owned buildings with high-performance networks; and exploring the application of modern communication technologies and AI-based solutions to enhance the management of municipal operations and services. One of the key components of the MoU is the provision of free, managed public Wi-Fi in strategic public areas. This service will enable residents and visitors to enjoy seamless and secure internet access in high-traffic locations, thereby enriching the digital tourism experience and promoting domestic tourism. The initiative also supports the creation of a robust digital infrastructure that will serve as a foundation for launching interactive, innovative municipal services, in addition to enabling access to educational content and digital information services in parks and tourist areas. Furthermore, the initiative is expected to facilitate integration with e-payment systems, geospatial services, and community awareness applications, reinforcing Dhofar's image as a technologically advanced destination and paving the way toward a future smart city model. Commenting on the MoU, Dr. AhmedMohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, stated: 'This partnership is vital for enhancing municipal services and improving the overall visitor experience. It represents a key step toward achieving the goals of Oman Vision 2040 by building smart infrastructure and balancing urban development with digital progress.' From his side, Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, CEO of AWASR, affirmed: 'This MoU reflects our deep commitment to supporting government entities in advancing their digital capabilities. We are confident that our partnership with Dhofar Municipality will yield impactful projects that benefit citizens, residents, and tourists alike, and contribute to building smart, tech-enabled communities.' Eugen Comendant, Chief Commercial Officer at AWASR, also commented: 'Providing managed Wi-Fi services in parks and tourist destinations is a key step toward improving the user experience in public spaces and unlocking new potential for digital engagement. This initiative not only supports infrastructure development but also enables opportunities for interactive tourism promotion, community involvement, and safe, connected environments.' This partnership is part of AWASR's broader series of initiatives aimed at supporting smart cities and expanding modern connectivity services across Oman, further reinforcing the company's leading role in driving digital transformation nationwide. About AWASR: AWASR is the first specialized high-speed internet service provider in Oman, offering innovative technology solutions tailored to the needs of individuals and businesses. It was the pioneer in launching 1 Gbps internet services for consumers in 2017, followed by its groundbreaking introduction of 10 Gbps speeds for the first time in Oman in 2024. Through its continued commitment to innovation and quality, AWASR remains at the forefront of enhancing digital connectivity in Oman and supporting digital transformation across all sectors. For more information, please visit our website: s Service Salalah:Times News Service Salalah: In a strategic move aimed at supporting digital transformation and strengthening digital infrastructure in Dhofar Governorate, AWASR signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dhofar Municipality on July 10, to collaborate on the study and implementation of several joint technology and service projects. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life and improve the efficiency of public services throughout the governorate. The MoU was signed at the Dhofar Municipality headquarters in Salalah by Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, and Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, Chief Executive Officer of AWASR. Under the MoU, both parties will collaborate on a variety of initiatives, including the provision of managed Wi-Fi services in tourist sites, public parks, and coastal promenades; connecting municipality-owned buildings with high-performance networks; and exploring the application of modern communication technologies and AI-based solutions to enhance the management of municipal operations and services. One of the key components of the MoU is the provision of free, managed public Wi-Fi in strategic public areas. This service will enable residents and visitors to enjoy seamless and secure internet access in high-traffic locations, thereby enriching the digital tourism experience and promoting domestic tourism. The initiative also supports the creation of a robust digital infrastructure that will serve as a foundation for launching interactive, innovative municipal services, in addition to enabling access to educational content and digital information services in parks and tourist areas. Furthermore, the initiative is expected to facilitate integration with e-payment systems, geospatial services, and community awareness applications, reinforcing Dhofar's image as a technologically advanced destination and paving the way toward a future smart city model. Commenting on the MoU, Dr. AhmedMohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, stated: 'This partnership is vital for enhancing municipal services and improving the overall visitor experience. It represents a key step toward achieving the goals of Oman Vision 2040 by building smart infrastructure and balancing urban development with digital progress.' From his side, Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, CEO of AWASR, affirmed: 'This MoU reflects our deep commitment to supporting government entities in advancing their digital capabilities. We are confident that our partnership with Dhofar Municipality will yield impactful projects that benefit citizens, residents, and tourists alike, and contribute to building smart, tech-enabled communities.' Eugen Comendant, Chief Commercial Officer at AWASR, also commented: 'Providing managed Wi-Fi services in parks and tourist destinations is a key step toward improving the user experience in public spaces and unlocking new potential for digital engagement. This initiative not only supports infrastructure development but also enables opportunities for interactive tourism promotion, community involvement, and safe, connected environments.' This partnership is part of AWASR's broader series of initiatives aimed at supporting smart cities and expanding modern connectivity services across Oman, further reinforcing the company's leading role in driving digital transformation nationwide. About AWASR: AWASR is the first specialized high-speed internet service provider in Oman, offering innovative technology solutions tailored to the needs of individuals and businesses. It was the pioneer in launching 1 Gbps internet services for consumers in 2017, followed by its groundbreaking introduction of 10 Gbps speeds for the first time in Oman in 2024. Through its continued commitment to innovation and quality, AWASR remains at the forefront of enhancing digital connectivity in Oman and supporting digital transformation across all sectors. For more information, please visit our website: In a strategic move aimed at supporting digital transformation and strengthening digital infrastructure in Dhofar Governorate, AWASR signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dhofar Municipality on July 10, to collaborate on the study and implementation of several joint technology and service projects. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life and improve the efficiency of public services throughout the governorate. The MoU was signed at the Dhofar Municipality headquarters in Salalah by Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, and Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, Chief Executive Officer of AWASR. Under the MoU, both parties will collaborate on a variety of initiatives, including the provision of managed Wi-Fi services in tourist sites, public parks, and coastal promenades; connecting municipality-owned buildings with high-performance networks; and exploring the application of modern communication technologies and AI-based solutions to enhance the management of municipal operations and services. One of the key components of the MoU is the provision of free, managed public Wi-Fi in strategic public areas. This service will enable residents and visitors to enjoy seamless and secure internet access in high-traffic locations, thereby enriching the digital tourism experience and promoting domestic tourism. The initiative also supports the creation of a robust digital infrastructure that will serve as a foundation for launching interactive, innovative municipal services, in addition to enabling access to educational content and digital information services in parks and tourist areas. Furthermore, the initiative is expected to facilitate integration with e-payment systems, geospatial services, and community awareness applications, reinforcing Dhofar's image as a technologically advanced destination and paving the way toward a future smart city model. Commenting on the MoU, Dr. AhmedMohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, stated: 'This partnership is vital for enhancing municipal services and improving the overall visitor experience. It represents a key step toward achieving the goals of Oman Vision 2040 by building smart infrastructure and balancing urban development with digital progress.' From his side, Eng. Adnan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, CEO of AWASR, affirmed: 'This MoU reflects our deep commitment to supporting government entities in advancing their digital capabilities. We are confident that our partnership with Dhofar Municipality will yield impactful projects that benefit citizens, residents, and tourists alike, and contribute to building smart, tech-enabled communities.' Eugen Comendant, Chief Commercial Officer at AWASR, also commented: 'Providing managed Wi-Fi services in parks and tourist destinations is a key step toward improving the user experience in public spaces and unlocking new potential for digital engagement. This initiative not only supports infrastructure development but also enables opportunities for interactive tourism promotion, community involvement, and safe, connected environments.' This partnership is part of AWASR's broader series of initiatives aimed at supporting smart cities and expanding modern connectivity services across Oman, further reinforcing the company's leading role in driving digital transformation nationwide. About AWASR: AWASR is the first specialized high-speed internet service provider in Oman, offering innovative technology solutions tailored to the needs of individuals and businesses. It was the pioneer in launching 1 Gbps internet services for consumers in 2017, followed by its groundbreaking introduction of 10 Gbps speeds for the first time in Oman in 2024. Through its continued commitment to innovation and quality, AWASR remains at the forefront of enhancing digital connectivity in Oman and supporting digital transformation across all sectors.
Times of Oman
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Times of Oman
Khareef Dhofar 2025 to kick off on 21 june with diverse tourism, cultural experience
Dubai — During a press conference on the sidelines of its participation at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, the Sultanate of Oman unveiled the activities and events of 'Kareef Dhofar 2025' season, featuring a variety of tourism and cultural experiences. The season will coincide with the astronomical start of autumn on 21 June and run until 20 September each year. Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality stated that this year's main and accompanying events will be distributed across both existing sites undergoing continuous development and new locations, offering visitors exceptional experiences. He explained that the "Return of the Past" activities in this edition will feature a new approach reflecting Omani authenticity and traditional life from across the Sultanate of Oman's governorates. These will include folk art performances, heritage markets, and handicraft displays. He noted that last year's event achieved significant success and widespread acclaim from visitors and participants. He added that the event's site has undergone comprehensive upgrades to enhance its heritage character, blending the charm of the past with the spirit of the present. Further developments are planned in the coming years to establish it as a leading heritage destination. He affirmed that 'Ateen Square' will be a hub for major entertainment events and performances, building on the remarkable success of previous editions that attracted large audiences. The site will serve as a global events center, featuring an integrated shopping area, an open-air theater, a modern games zone, new light and laser shows, and contemporary dining facilities—solidifying its position as a premier cultural and entertainment destination. Dr. Al Ghassani pointed out that Awqad Park will be a family entertainment center with activities tailored for children and parents, featuring a distinct theme this year. Meanwhile, 'Up Town' in Ateen Plain will debut with diverse events catering to all age groups. He noted that Salalah Public Park will host various sports activities throughout the autumn season, with broad participation from all age groups and people with disabilities. 'Al Murooj Theater' will be dedicated to cultural events, featuring local, Gulf, and Arab theatrical performances. The municipality is expanding events to include coastal Wilayats affected by the autumn season, with diverse cultural, sports, and commercial activities. Development projects—such as enhancing natural viewpoints, tourist sites, road paving, and urban beautification—have been implemented in collaboration with government and private entities to improve visitor experiences and tourism infrastructure, he further added. On his turn, Azzan Qasim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, affirmed the ministry's readiness to promote 'Khareef Dhofar 2025' through various programs under a coordinated plan with relevant authorities. He added that several new tourism and hotel facilities will open this year in Dhofar, where 83 licensed hotels—offering 6,537 rooms—are already prepared to welcome visitors. The ministry has launched promotional campaigns for the season, starting with its participation at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, including a press conference to announce key events. Marketing efforts include media campaigns, social media promotions, direct outreach in Gulf and regional markets, digital ads, and familiarization trips for travel agencies, media delegations, and influencers, he pointed out. He explained that special tourism packages have been designed in collaboration with local and international travel companies to enhance visitor experiences and boost inbound tourism by connecting Omani tourism entities with global markets. Government and private entities prepare annually to receive tourists during Khareef Dhofar, providing necessary services and facilities. According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information, visitor numbers to Dhofar during the 2024 khareef season rose by 9%, reaching approximately 1.048 million tourists. Notably, Dhofar is also distinguished by two other seasons—Al-Sarb and winter—which attract nearly half a million visitors from various world countries.
