Latest news with #Dhofar
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Major road upgrades underway in Dhofar for khareef 2025
Salalah – In preparation for khareef 2025, Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology is accelerating implementation of strategic road development projects across Dhofar to support tourism, economic growth and public mobility. The ministry confirmed that major upgrades and maintenance works are in progress throughout the governorate, aimed at enhancing road connectivity and traffic flow. Among the flagship projects is the Attin Tunnel in Salalah, which has reached 93% completion – well ahead of schedule. The tunnel is expected to significantly ease congestion during peak tourist months. Work is also advancing on dualisation of key roads in Salalah. Sultan Taimur Street (6.8km) is 40% complete, while 45% of work on Al Farouq Street (7.6km) has been finalised. In Mughsail, 20% of work has been completed on a new road project that includes a 12m-high bridge, pedestrian paths, lighting and an underpass connecting tourist sites. The 33km Raysut-Mughsail Road is also being dualised, with six interchanges and a 5.5km extension to 18th November Road. The Al Shuwaimiya Ascent Improvement Project in Shalim and Hallaniyat Islands has been awarded. The 2.5km stretch includes new drainage systems, safety barriers and road signage. According to Said bin Mohammed Tabuk, Director General of Road and Land Transport in Dhofar, the third, fourth and fifth phases of Sultan Said bin Taimur Road dualisation – spanning 400km – has commenced. The total investment in the project exceeds RO258mn. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Times of Oman
3 days ago
- Health
- Times of Oman
'A Nation Free from Drugs" awareness campaign held in Salalah
Salalah: The Ministry of Social Development, in Dhofar Governorate, organised on Wednesday a community event titled 'A Nation Free from Drugs" to raise awareness about the dangers of narcotics and psychotropic substances. The initiative aimed to educate the public on the threat of drug abuse, its societal risks, and the importance of collective prevention while fostering health, social and cultural awareness. The event featured a panel discussion titled 'A Nation Free from Drugs," where experts addressed the societal impacts of addiction and strategies for prevention and treatment.
Times of Oman
3 days ago
- Times of Oman
Development projects upgrade road network in Dhofar Governorate
Salalah: The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology is intensifying efforts to implement and maintain a series of developmental road projects in Dhofar Governorate. These initiatives aim to enhance infrastructure efficiency and prepare for the upcoming Khareef (monsoon season), facilitating smoother tourist, economic, and social mobility. The ongoing works include road dual-carriageway, development, paving, maintenance, and connectivity projects linking various wilayats of Dhofar. Eng. Said Mohammed Tabook, Director General of Roads and Land Transport in Dhofar, stated that the Ateen Tunnel project in Salalah has achieved significant progress, with completion reaching 93%—23% ahead of schedule. This is expected to alleviate traffic congestion during the Khareef season. Meanwhile, the dual-carriageway of Sultan Taimour Street (6.8 km) in Al Saada area is 40% complete, and Al Farooq Street dual-carriageway (7.6 km) has reached 45%. He added that the Ministry is implementing the Mughsail Road and Bridge project in Salalah (20% complete), featuring a 12-meter-high concrete bridge, parking areas, a pedestrian walkway with lighting, and a ground crossing serving tourist sites. The Raysut-Mughsail dual-carriageway road (33 km) includes six overpasses/underpasses, roundabouts, and animal crossings, alongside linking the 18 November Road to the dual-carriageway section (5.5 km). In the Wilayat of Al Mazyunah, the Harweeb-Al Mazyunah-Maitin road project (210 km) is approximately 65% complete, divided into four main segments. Additionally, the Andat-Habrut road (10 km) is underway. In the Wilayat of Maqshin, the asphalt network project (170 km) is 58% complete, connecting Marsudid, Al Manadir, Mandar Al Dhabyan, and Al Mashash areas, with completion targeted for June 2026. The Ministry is also progressing on the Seeh Al Kheerat-Shisr road in Thumrait (46 km), in collaboration with the Najd Agricultural Area Development Office. This vital route passes through key agricultural zones and is slated for completion by October 2026. Additionally, the tender for improving Al Shuwaimiyah Pass on the Shaleem-Al Shuwaimiyah road (2.5 km) in Shaleem and Halaniyat Islands has been awarded, featuring drainage channels, protective barriers, and road signage. He noted that construction has begun on the third, fourth, and fifth phases of Sultan Said bin Taimour dual-carriageway road (nearly 400 km), with a total cost exceeding RO 258 million. Last month, the new Arqut-Sarfait Mountain Road (13.5 km) was inaugurated, enhancing connectivity between the wilayats of Rakhyut and Dhalkut and extending to the Sarfait border crossing with Yemen.
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Dhofar eyes sustainable tourism boost with new investments and eco-projects
Salalah – In preparation for khareef 2025, Dhofar Municipal Council held its sixth meeting of the year on Tuesday, chaired by H H Sayyid Marwan bin Turki al Said, Governor of Dhofar. The session focused on a wide range of development, tourism, environmental and service initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and the visitor experience during the monsoon season. Key topics of discussion included updates following recent field visits to Al Shurooq and Dhahreez, where ongoing urban planning projects were assessed. Officials from the Directorate General of Housing and Urban Planning presented progress of the 'Future City' concept, which aims to modernise local infrastructure and consolidate Dhofar's reputation as a sustainable tourism destination. In support of Oman's digital transformation goals, the council reviewed plans to instal smart digital signage across the governorate. These signs will provide visitors with real-time updates on attractions, facilities and services, improving navigation and visitor engagement during the peak tourism period. An environmental briefing outlined progress on the 'Green Belt' project, which aims to expand vegetation, limit desertification and enhance air quality. The project covers urban and industrial areas and is part of broader efforts to promote eco-tourism and environmental sustainability. The council also discussed expanding afforestation initiatives by using treated wastewater for irrigation and working with local nurseries to add greenery to public spaces, residential neighbourhoods and recreational areas. These steps are expected to enrich domestic tourism and improve living standards. Economic development was another priority with the council reviewing investment opportunities in Raysut Industrial City. Attracting private sector participation in industrial, commercial and service activities is seen as vital for diversifying Dhofar's economy and supporting year-round tourism. Infrastructure and public services were also addressed, including reports from Nama Water Services on water quality in schools in mountain and desert areas. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
3 days ago
- General
- Zawya
Oman: 2nd Taqah Agricultural Forum to promote food security and rural development
TAQAH: The Wilayat of Taqah in Dhofar Governorate hosted the second edition of the Agricultural Forum on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, bringing together farmers, agricultural experts, government officials, and private sector partners to promote sustainable agriculture and support national food security efforts. The two-day forum, organised by the Office of the Wali of Taqah in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, aims to strengthen local farming practices, improve productivity, and expand rural economic opportunities. In his opening remarks, the Wali of Taqah affirmed that hosting the forum reflects the region's commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture as a cornerstone of food security and economic resilience. The Office of the Wali described the event as a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and practical solutions to agricultural challenges, particularly in light of climate change and economic transitions. The Wali's Office also praised the collaborative efforts of farmers, government institutions, and private stakeholders, calling for sustained coordination and strategic planning to develop productive projects that enhance rural livelihoods and ensure national food security. Experts participating in the forum highlighted Dhofar's unique environmental advantage—its annual monsoon season, known locally as Khareef. The seasonal rains, which transform the Dhofar landscape from June to September, offer a valuable opportunity to revive traditional farming cycles and expand crop production. 'Historically, families in the Dhofar highlands have relied on Khareef as the beginning of their agricultural year,' said one agricultural expert. 'It provided rain-fed soil conditions ideal for growing crops and supporting livestock. Revitalising this seasonal pattern using modern techniques could enhance food security in a climate-resilient way.' One local farmer from the rural highlands of Dhofar spoke about the untapped potential of mountain agriculture. 'The highlands are fertile and suitable for cultivation, but they require effort and sustained support,' he said. 'Agricultural knowledge plays a major role in improving yields. We hope the government will allocate more land in mountainous areas to help farmers expand cultivation and increase productivity.' Throughout the day, attendees took part in technical sessions and working papers covering a range of topics, including pest control strategies, genetic improvements in livestock, and methods to enhance the value of local agricultural products. Other presentations explored how home-based farms and rural entrepreneurs can contribute to economic diversification and social development. The forum also included an agricultural exhibition showcasing local produce, agri-tech solutions, and services from public and private entities. Participating organisations included the Ministry of Agriculture, Dhofar Municipality, the SME Development Authority, and private agricultural suppliers. Farmers displayed a wide variety of high-quality products such as organic fruits and vegetables, natural honey, dairy goods, and livestock. Experts praised these goods for their quality and potential competitiveness in both domestic and regional markets. Participants agreed that Oman's agricultural sector is gaining momentum, supported by targeted policies, local innovations, and strategic investment. Stakeholders stressed the need for modern farming technologies, access to finance, and increased awareness of climate-smart agriculture. By linking local knowledge with advanced practices, events like this forum help position agriculture not only as a source of food but as a key pillar of economic diversification, rural employment, and national resilience. The forum will continue on June 25 with further panel discussions, capacity-building workshops, and policy dialogue. Sessions will address water management, market access, sustainable supply chains, and agricultural entrepreneurship for young Omanis. As Dhofar enters its monsoon season, the timing of this forum underscores a deeper message: Oman's future food security may well depend on how it integrates tradition, innovation, and environmental stewardship in its farming policies.
