Latest news with #AhmedbinMohsinalGhassani
Observer
a day ago
- Business
- Observer
Dhofar Municipality implements internal road projects worth over RO 36 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 kilometres and a cost exceeding RO 36 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, Taqah, Mirbat, Sadah, Shaleem and Al Hallaniyat Islands, Thamrait, Maqshin, Al Mazyouna, Rakhyout and Dhalkout, according to a timetable and technical standards that consider public safety requirements and infrastructure sustainability. Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, stated to Oman News Agency (ONA) that the Wilayat of Salalah is witnessing the implementation of internal road totalling approximately 161 kilometres in residential areas within the centre of the wilayat, the plain and the mountain, at a cost exceeding RO 9 million. Additionally, there is a dual carriageway project of Sultan Qaboos Street, with a length of 9 kilometres, which has reached 22 per cent completion, at a cost of RO 16.3 million. He added that the municipality will implement a project to pave 40 kilometres of internal roads in the Wilayat of Thamrait, along with a new project to dual Thamrait Street for 4.5 kilometres, 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 kilometres of internal roads in the Wilayat of Taqah (in the plain and mountain areas) at a cost of approximately RO 1.7 million, in addition to paving 20 kilometres of roads in the Wilayat of Mirbat at a cost of about RO 995,000, alongside the completion of the Mirbat Street dualisation project this year, spanning 3.5 kilometres, 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 kilometres of internal roads distributed across the wilayats of Sadah, Shaleem and Al Hallaniyat Islands, Rakhyout, Dhalkout and Al Mazyouna, in addition to paving 15 kilometres of internal roads in the Wilayat of Maqshin. 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. - ONA
Observer
a day ago
- Business
- Observer
New branding strategy to elevate Khareef experience
SALALAH, JULY 15 Dhofar has introduced a new dual branding strategy that highlights the governorate's multi-faceted attributes, on the one hand, and tourism and investment-driven appeal, on the other, this was revealed by Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, during his appearance on Oman TV's 'People and Khareef' programme on Tuesday. The temporary campaign 'Dhofar: Land of Glad Tidings' has been launched in parallel with a comprehensive development strategy composed of six pillars: human capital, environment, economy, society, culture and urban planning. The governorate's commercial identity is represented by the 'Frankincense Route', a long-term brand rooted in Dhofar's historical and cultural legacy. It is intended to guide both tourism and investment marketing initiatives across local and international platforms. Dr Al Ghassani explained that Dhofar Municipality initiates planning for the next khareef immediately after the previous season concludes. A dedicated evaluation team from the Youth Committee of Dhofar Governorate, established two years ago, conducts field visits to key tourist locations, engages with visitors and residents, and compiles opinion surveys. The findings are submitted in a detailed report to the Governor of Dhofar, in coordination with stakeholders from all sectors, to inform next season's planning. He noted that recent years have seen the implementation of several critical road projects — not only within Salalah, but across the wilayats of Rakhyout, Taqah, Mirbat and Dhalkout. While some projects have been completed, others are under construction and scheduled for delivery ahead of the season's peak. He also highlighted a number of high-impact initiatives, including road enhancements, traffic flow improvements and the development of new seafronts. Notable among them are: the waterfront at Dahariz and the seafront at Awqad. Some contracts have already been awarded, while others are nearing final signature stages. Additional upgrades are planned for long-overlooked tourist sites, with a strong focus on maintaining Dhofar's ecological character. Dr Al Ghassani reaffirmed the municipality's commitment to sustainable development. 'We do not pursue construction projects that compromise the environment,' he stated. 'Our vision is to adapt the natural environment to serve people while preserving it for future generations.' A national task force was formed to address seasonal environmental concerns, such as mosquito proliferation and heavy fog. The task force includes representatives from government agencies and universities. Initial pilot trials have yielded promising results, with ongoing assessments to ensure safety and scalability. To better understand visitor motivations, Dhofar Municipality launched a social media campaign. The interactive initiative has generated widespread public engagement. According to Dr Al Ghassani, early responses highlight three recurring themes: nature, the people and the community. He explained that this initiative is part of a broader strategy led by the Office of the Governor of Dhofar, in line with the Royal Directives of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik — issued after visitor numbers exceeded one million during last year's khareef. The overarching goal is to improve service delivery by listening directly to visitor aspirations. Dr Al Ghassani emphasised Dhofar Municipality's renewed focus on local content and youth entrepreneurship. For khareef 2025, commercial and event spaces were allocated directly to Omani youth-led enterprises, bypassing traditional bidding processes to ensure local impact. 'We have successfully engaged Omani entrepreneurs at key locations,' he said. 'They offer high-quality local products spanning food, crafts and family entertainment. These young Omanis are building success stories that we hope will expand into national and international franchises.'
Observer
4 days ago
- Business
- Observer
Awasr, Dhofar Municipality partner to boost smart infrastructure
SALALAH: In a strategic move to accelerate digital transformation and strengthen digital infrastructure in Dhofar Governorate, Awasr has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dhofar Municipality on July 10. The agreement outlines joint efforts to study and implement a range of advanced technology and service projects designed to enhance quality of life and improve public service efficiency across the region. The MoU was formalised at Dhofar Municipality headquarters in Salalah by Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality and Eng Adnan bin Mohammed al Alawi, Chief Executive Officer of Awasr. Under this partnership, Awasr and Dhofar Municipality will collaborate on several initiatives, including the provision of managed Wi-Fi services at tourist sites, public parks and coastal promenades; the connection of municipal buildings with high-performance networks; and the introduction of modern communication and AI-based solutions to optimise municipal operations and services. A key highlight of the MoU is the provision of free, managed public Wi-Fi in prominent public spaces. This service aims to provide residents and visitors with seamless and secure internet access in high-traffic areas, enriching the digital tourism experience and supporting domestic tourism. The initiative also serves as a foundation for developing interactive municipal services, offering access to educational content and promoting digital engagement in parks and tourist locations. Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani and Eng Adnan bin Mohammed al Alawi Moreover, the partnership will enable integration with e-payment systems, geospatial services and community awareness applications, reinforcing Dhofar's image as a technologically advanced and visitor-friendly destination; and moving closer to a future smart city model. Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani, commented: 'This partnership is pivotal for enhancing municipal services and improving the overall visitor experience. It represents a crucial step towards realising Oman Vision 2040, building smart infrastructure and achieving balanced urban and digital development'. Eng Adnan bin Mohammed al Alawi, CEO of Awasr, added: 'This MoU underscores our strong commitment to supporting government entities in advancing their digital capabilities. We are confident that this collaboration will yield transformative projects benefitting citizens, residents and tourists, while fostering smart, tech-enabled communities'. Eugen Comendant, Chief Commercial Officer at Awasr, also noted: 'Providing managed Wi-Fi in parks and tourist destinations is a significant step in elevating the user experience in public spaces and creating new opportunities for digital engagement. This initiative not only supports infrastructure growth but also fosters interactive tourism promotion and safe, connected environments'. The agreement forms part of Awasr's wider efforts to support smart city initiatives and expand advanced connectivity services throughout Oman, reinforcing its leadership in driving the nation's digital transformation.
Observer
26-05-2025
- General
- Observer
Dhofar Governorate celebrates Quran competition winners
SALALAH: The Directorate-General of Awqaf and Religious Affairs in Dhofar Governorate on Monday celebrated the conclusion of the "Harvest of Quran Schools" competitions for the 1446 AH, 2025 at the Sultan Qaboos Youth Complex for Culture and Entertainment in Salalah. The ceremony featured a visual presentation showcasing Quran schools in Dhofar and the stages of the competitions, along with performances by students, including Quranic recitations and religious hymns. The competitions aimed to develop students' skills in Quran recitation, memorisation and lessons from the Prophet's Sunnah, while instilling Islamic values in youth. Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, honoured 200 outstanding male and female winners. These included participants from the seventh edition of the "Harvest of Quran Schools" competition and the third edition of the "Nibras Al Huda" competition for memorising Hadiths, as well as distinguished achievers from Quran study circles in mosques and Quran schools across the governorate. - ONA
Observer
04-05-2025
- General
- Observer
CEO TALK: From hands-on work to high office
MUSCAT, MAY 4 In the southern city of Salalah, long before titles and accolades, a young boy sat behind the counter of his father's shop, textbooks open, mind focused, and hands occasionally fixing bicycles. That boy — now Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality — would rise to become one of Oman's most respected public servants. His journey, grounded in discipline and shaped by learning, is more than a success story — it is a case study in leadership, perseverance, and national vision. From an early age, Dr Al Ghassani learned the realities of responsibility. By the fourth grade, he was working after school in his family's shop — a small but formative environment. There, he developed the habits that would stay with him for life: structure, reliability, and respect for effort. By the sixth grade, he was assembling bicycles, not as a pastime but out of necessity. His evenings were devoted to studies at the shop, often until 9 pm, forming a routine of resilience that quietly defined his future. His secondary education years were a masterclass in commitment. His day began with regular school and continued with intensive sessions at the British Council and the French Institute. After dusk, he attended Quran memorisation classes until 10 pm. This intense schedule led many around him to assume he would eventually collapse from exhaustion — but instead, he rose. In his final year, he made the strategic decision to pause language studies and focus entirely on the General Secondary Certificate, securing a place on the prestigious Sultan Qaboos Scholarship Programme to study civil engineering abroad. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Sultan Qaboos University in 1993. However, academic achievement was never his endpoint — it was his platform. In 1998, he left for the UK to pursue advanced studies. He obtained a Master's degree in Structural Engineering from the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST) in 1999. Determined to deepen his expertise, he continued to Loughborough University, earning a PhD in Construction Management in 2003. His doctoral research focused on the integration of knowledge management into structural design processes — a pioneering approach for its time. Returning to Oman, Dr Al Ghassani chose not to enter administrative roles immediately. He instead resumed teaching in the department he helped establish at Salalah Technical College. His belief in the power of education led him to stay close to students, listen to their challenges, and shape an academic culture rooted in openness and inclusion. Over time, he would serve in various senior academic positions, including Dean of the Higher College of Technology, and later at the College of Banking and Financial Studies, where he aligned academic offerings with real-world market needs, championed student innovation, and ensured graduates were job-ready. In 2018, Dr Al Ghassani was appointed CEO of the Public Authority for Small and Medium Enterprise Development (Riyada). It was a pivotal period — Oman was seeking new engines for economic diversification, and youth entrepreneurship was a central pillar. At Riyada, he led with clarity and decisiveness: reworking the institutional structure, introducing targeted funding and support mechanisms, and fostering a startup ecosystem driven by Omani talent. His leadership reasserted a simple truth: a single idea, when nurtured, can evolve into a national asset. In October 2019, Dr Al Ghassani was appointed Chairman of Dhofar Municipality. The transition from academic reformer to urban executive was significant, yet seamless. In Dhofar — a region of rich culture and growing infrastructure needs — he faced the challenge of balancing development with preservation. He led projects that included the revitalisation of traditional markets, the redevelopment of coastal promenades, modern flood prevention infrastructure, and enhanced wastewater systems. His administration adopted a development model that was as strategic as it was sensitive — combining modern urban planning with cultural and environmental stewardship. His leadership came into national focus in 2024, when he achieved three major distinctions: • Best Leader in Government Digital Excellence — a title awarded in the inaugural edition of Oman's national digital performance awards. • Best Digital Transformation Team — won by Dhofar Municipality under his chairmanship, recognising the integration of digital tools in public service delivery. • 'Excellent' Rating in Institutional Performance Evaluation — the highest recognition in the national governance review for that year. Yet Dr Al-Ghassani is quick to redirect praise. 'These are not individual achievements,' he often says. 'They reflect teamwork, accountability, and a shared culture of results.' Across all his roles, four core values stand out in his leadership approach:1. A relentless commitment to lifelong learning — both personal and institutional. 2. Community engagement — ensuring planning is informed by those it serves. 3. Cultural realism — blending progress with respect for heritage. 4. Results-focused governance — where policies are measured not by announcements but by public impact. Perhaps most importantly, Dr Al Ghassani has never lost sight of the next generation. In speeches and interviews, he consistently addresses young Omanis with conviction: 'Opportunities do not come by accident. They are built through intention and hard work. Every young person must believe that the country is counting on them. The future begins the moment you choose to develop yourself.' His story — from the back room of a shop to the forefront of urban transformation — is not defined by luck or shortcuts. It is a testament to structure, vision, and commitment over time. In an era that often favours visibility over value, Dr Ahmed Al-Ghassani's life is a reminder that leadership is not found in noise, but in quiet, consistent service. For young Omanis, his path is both a mirror and a map: a reflection of what is possible — and a direction toward what can still be achieved.
