Latest news with #SALALAH
Observer
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Observer
Arab presenters to join Khareef Dhofar media coverage for first time
SALALAH: For the first time, presenters from Arab countries outside the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) will participate in the live media coverage of Khareef Dhofar Season. The initiative is part of a wider effort by the Ministry of Information to broaden regional engagement and strengthen the cultural identity of the monsoon season. Dr Mohammed al Sheshai, Director-General, Information Department in Dhofar Governorate, confirmed in an exclusive interview with the Observer that the ministry is fully prepared to deliver a multi-platform media campaign for Khareef Dhofar 2025. The plan includes daily live coverage across television, radio, print and digital platforms. One of the season's flagship programmes is Al Nas Wal Khareef (The People and the Monsoon), which will be broadcast live every afternoon from 2:30 pm to 4 pm. The show will be produced from a mobile studio that travels across Dhofar's natural sites. It will feature presenters from the GCC and, for the first time, presenters from other Arab countries. This expansion reflects the ministry's aim to give the season a wider Arab media profile. Another key programme is Layali Al Khareef (Monsoon Nights), which will air every evening from 9 pm to 10 pm from the cultural venue Awdat Al Madi (Return to the Past). This show will highlight the evening events taking place across the governorate, especially those connected to Dhofar's heritage and tourism appeal. Radio coverage has also been expanded. The programme Atheer Al Khareef will air daily from 5 pm to 7 pm between August 15 and 31. It will be broadcast from the dedicated radio studio at Awdat Al Madi and will focus on cultural and recreational content. In addition, the general radio service will provide continuous festival coverage, while Al Khareef Wal Shabab (The Monsoon and Youth) will be dedicated to youth voices and highlight initiatives by young Omanis and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Dr Al Sheshai also confirmed that the media plan was developed in coordination with other stakeholders. A high-level meeting was recently held between Dr Abdullah bin Nasser al Harrasi, Minister of Information, and Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, to finalise the media strategy and ensure alignment across all platforms. He noted that all event zones have been renamed in Arabic as part of a broader effort to reinforce national identity. This year's coverage will also include real-time updates across newspapers, radio, TV, Oman News Agency and social media platforms. The strategy is designed to deliver a unified media message that reflects the essence of Khareef Dhofar. Khareef Dhofar 2025 is expected to mark a new chapter in how Oman presents its most important tourism season. With wider Arab participation, refreshed media content and a fully integrated communication strategy, the Ministry of Information aims to elevate Dhofar's visibility across the region and reinforce its status as a leading cultural and natural destination.
Observer
26-03-2025
- Science
- Observer
Frankincense trees in good numbers in Dhofar: Study
SALALAH: A scientific study on frankincense trees in Dhofar Governorate has shown that they are present in good numbers in their natural environments, in addition to monitoring a promising plant succession in terms of the presence of new seedlings of the species Boswellia sacra. The study, conducted by the Environment Authority in cooperation with the Environment Society of Oman, covered the geographical and numerical distribution and condition of trees and the main challenges they currently face in Dhofar Governorate. The study revealed that the most prominent threats facing frankincense trees are overgrazing, unsustainable harvesting, mining activities, insect pests and erosion during floods. It is worth mentioning that the Environment Authority and the Environment Society of Oman have been implementing a cooperation programme since 2022 to establish a classification for the species at the national and global levels, in coordination with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Surveys in this field continue annually. - ONA
Observer
02-03-2025
- Observer
Dhofar enhances adventure tourism with new trails
SALALAH: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has taken a significant step towards enhancing adventure tourism in Dhofar Governorate by commissioning the development of three key mountain trails. Local companies specialising in adventure tourism have been entrusted with these projects, which are expected to improve visitor experiences and attract more nature enthusiasts to the governorate. As part of the initiative, the ministry has introduced a high-wire (Via Ferrata) track at Jabal Samhan, a thrilling adventure activity that allows climbers to navigate iron tracks set along steep mountain slopes. This addition is set to elevate Dhofar's reputation as a destination for extreme outdoor activities. Furthermore, key hiking trails in Ain Hasheer, the Tabaldi tree area and Ain Ghaydh have been upgraded with new directional signage to assist visitors, while international trail markers have been repainted for better navigation. Sections of these trails have also been paved to enhance accessibility, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for hikers exploring Dhofar's rich natural beauty. Dhofar has gained prominence as a sought-after destination for adventure seekers The governorate's diverse topography makes it a prime location for adventure tourism, with over 40 recognised mountain trails offering a mix of challenging and scenic routes. Caves, freshwater springs and rugged terrains provide an ideal environment for trekking groups and outdoor enthusiasts. These latest developments aim to support sustainable tourism growth while preserving Dhofar's unique landscapes. In recent years, Dhofar has gained prominence as a sought-after destination for adventure seekers, particularly during the khareef season. The ongoing efforts to enhance trekking routes align with the broader vision of promoting eco-tourism and responsible travel in Oman. By improving infrastructure and safety measures on these trails, the ministry hopes to encourage both local and international visitors to explore Dhofar's untapped adventure tourism potential. Dhofar enhances adventure tourism with new trails Additionally, community engagement plays a vital role in the success of these initiatives. By involving local businesses and experts in adventure tourism development, the ministry aims to create economic opportunities for residents while ensuring that tourism growth remains environmentally sustainable. The improvements in mountain trails not only provide thrilling experiences for hikers, but also contribute to positioning Oman as a key player in the global adventure tourism sector. As Dhofar continues to develop its tourism offerings, these enhancements signal a strong commitment to making the governorate an attractive destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. With ongoing investment in infrastructure and adventure tourism facilities, Dhofar is set to emerge as a premier hub for outdoor activities, drawing explorers from around the world. - ONA
