09-07-2025
CDAA ramps up Khareef Dhofar preparedness
SALALAH: As Dhofar enters the height of the khareef season, the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) has activated a full-scale emergency response plan to safeguard residents and the growing influx of visitors drawn to Salalah's lush landscapes.
Speaking on national television, Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Al Bakheet Kashoob, Director of Civil Defence and Ambulance in Dhofar, said the authority began early preparations with a comprehensive risk assessment and on-ground mapping of high-traffic areas.
'Each year, after the season ends, we analyse incidents and visitor patterns to better allocate teams and equipment,' he said. 'This year, we have deployed specialised teams across more than 15 key tourist locations including Wadi Darbat, Al Mughsail Beach, and natural springs like Ain Athum and Ain Razat.' Khareef Dhofar Season — spanning late June to early September — transforms the typically arid terrain into a misty green haven, attracting tourists from across the Gulf and beyond. With waterfalls, flowing wadis and temperatures averaging 23–25°C, the season is one of Oman's most important tourism windows, offering significant economic stimulus to the local economy.
Lieutenant Colonel Kashoob noted that several new sites popularised on social media have drawn large crowds this year, many of which pose unforeseen safety hazards such as slippery soil, unstable cliffs, or lack of access to rescue services.
'These are not regulated tourism sites,' he warned. 'We are working with other agencies to monitor these locations, place caution signs and deploy trained staff where needed.' The CDAA's plan is not working in isolation. The response strategy is coordinated with Dhofar Municipality, the Office of the Governor of Dhofar and the Environment Authority, ensuring a unified effort that covers everything from environmental monitoring to regulating access to natural springs and beaches.
Specialised private contractors have also been brought in to supervise water bodies, monitor tide conditions, and ensure signage and awareness boards are in place. Tourist accommodations are being inspected to ensure they comply with civil defence safety codes.
'Our goal is to protect lives and property,' Kashoob said. 'This means not only being ready to respond, but also working proactively to reduce risks.' The seasonal surge in visitors during khareef brings a positive economic impact to Dhofar's tourism, hospitality, transport and retail sectors. But it also underscores the importance of crisis preparedness, environmental stewardship and institutional coordination — pillars that align with Oman Vision 2040's sustainable tourism and disaster resilience objectives.
With teams on standby 24/7, equipped with all-terrain vehicles, rescue boats and advanced communications systems, Dhofar's civil defence forces are operating on high alert.
Kashoob concluded with a message to tourists: 'Your safety is our priority, but it's a shared responsibility. Please follow instructions, avoid risky locations and cooperate with emergency personnel. We want everyone to enjoy khareef safely.'
