Monday 04 / August / 2025
Muscat: The Dhofar Governorate Police Command is playing a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and security of visitors during the Dhofar Khareef season. The command is intensifying its security presence and deploying patrols across key tourist sites to maintain public order and provide a rapid, professional response to all incidents.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Akif Al Rawas, Director of Operations at the Dhofar Governorate Police, the governorate's operations center is active around the clock. It receives and responds to a wide range of reports, from traffic accidents to requests for assistance, and coordinates closely with relevant civil sectors.
Al Rawas noted that traffic accidents constitute the largest proportion of reports during the Khareef season. He attributed this to some visitors' lack of familiarity with driving in mountainous areas, which are often shrouded in fog. To address this, the Dhofar Governorate Police Command has activated three temporary police centers at locations that see a high influx of visitors: Al Mughsail Beach, Itin Plain, and Wadi Darbat.
Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed bin Saeed Ghawas, Assistant Director of Dhofar Traffic, detailed a comprehensive traffic plan. This plan includes deploying patrols on main roads, roundabouts, and at event locations to regulate traffic flow and ease potential congestion. Ghawas also mentioned the inauguration of the seventh edition of the Traffic Awareness Exhibition at Salalah Gardens Mall, an initiative designed to promote traffic safety culture and discipline among the public.
However, Ghawas also highlighted several observed negative behaviors, such as reckless driving, stunt driving, driving on green areas, children leaning out of vehicle windows, and using mobile phones while driving. He emphasized that the department is taking firm action against these violations and will intensify patrols to curb such actions. He urged visitors to ensure their vehicles are in good condition, get adequate rest, adhere to speed limits, maintain safe distances, and use heavy gear when descending slopes.
The Coast Guard Police is also an integral part of the safety plan. Major Alawi bin Hafiz Al Haddad, Assistant Commander of the Coast Guard Police in Dhofar Governorate, confirmed the deployment of marine rescue patrols to popular beaches to enhance field presence and ensure a rapid response to incidents. Despite their ongoing awareness campaigns, which warn of high waves and strong currents, some visitors are still observed swimming in dangerous conditions or standing on the edge of rocky cliffs for photos. Al Haddad cautioned fishermen as well, noting the dangers posed by high waves and the failure to follow safety instructions. He confirmed that the Coast Guard has a dedicated rescue team with trained personnel and modern equipment ready to respond to emergencies.
Furthermore, the Special Tasks Unit has intensified its security deployment at various tourist sites and festivals, as stated by Major Khalifa bin Jumaa Al Quwaiti, Assistant Commander. This unit provides crucial support to other police formations and ensures rapid intervention when necessary. The Mounted Police are also actively involved, using their unique mobility to reach locations like Atin Plain and Al Dahariz Beach that are difficult for vehicles to access, providing assistance and addressing violations.
At Salalah Airport, the General Directorate of Airport Security has stepped up its efforts to manage the increased passenger flow. First Lieutenant Khalid bin Omar Al-Humairi confirmed that teams are working to facilitate entry and exit procedures to accommodate the rising number of visitors efficiently.
In conclusion, the Royal Oman Police reiterated that the success of the Khareef season is a collective responsibility. They emphasized the importance of public cooperation and adherence to laws to ensure a safe and memorable tourist experience for everyone.
