Muscat – Dhahirah governorate is forging ahead with an array of developmental projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

Under the guidance of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the governorate is witnessing a rapid transformation, aligning with the Oman Vision 2040 objectives.

Governor Najeeb bin Ali al Rawas underlined the commitment of all parties to elevate the service levels across all sectors, with a specific focus on infrastructure and community projects. The collaboration between government bodies and the local community is pivotal, as it shapes the roadmap for the governorate’s future advancements.

A significant leap in Dhahirah’s infrastructure is marked by the inauguration of the water supply project from Sohar to Ibri, ensuring water sustainability and supporting groundwater reserves.

The much-anticipated dual road project from Ibri to Tanam, along with other road maintenance and communication network enhancements, underlines the strategic focus on connectivity and accessibility.

The governorate is not just building roads, but also pathways to cultural and recreational enrichment. Plans are set for an entertainment festival in Ibri and improvements in commercial zones, promising a boost in both commerce and tourism.

In the field of digital transformation, Dhahirah is streamlining services, reflecting the national drive towards e-governance.

Partnerships with oil companies are yielding community projects like walkways and public parks, contributing to the environmental and social fabric of the region.

In tandem, health services are scaling up, with initiatives like the child-friendly hospital and mental health programmes, reinforcing a commitment to the wellbeing of its citizens.

The education sector is also in the spotlight, with 83 schools educating over 44,000 students, a testament to the region’s investment in its future generations.

In the heritage and tourism landscape of Dhahirah, progress has been witnessed in investment within the hospitality sector. The governorate now boasts 35 hotel and tourism properties, including hotels, guesthouses, and eco-friendly inns – a significant leap from 20 establishments in 2021, marking a growth of 75%.

Guest occupancy in these establishments rose to 12,814 by the end of 2022. Visitor engagement with the region’s historical treasures – its castles and forts – also grew, drawing 4,543 visitors, marking a 38% rise in tourism.

Tourist attractions in total greeted 17,357 visitors. As of the end of August this year, hotel establishments have already hosted 18,000 guests, signaling a continued upward trend in visitor numbers.

The private sector, spearheaded by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is nurturing entrepreneurship, with a focus on innovative projects and skill development.

On the investment front, Ibri Industrial City stands as a beacon of industrial growth, with investments surpassing RO1.35bn.

The housing sector is distributing land and supporting food security projects, reflecting a holistic approach to development.

The agricultural sector is thriving with efforts to bolster food security through sustainable practices and support for wheat cultivation, while focusing on pest management to protect the vital date palm industry.

The governorate’s wheat cultivation has rise with 474 farmers managing 245 acres, yielding over 250 tonnes of grain.

With an output of approximately 2.77 tonnes per acre, the agricultural directorate has introduced new, sophisticated machinery to streamline the harvesting process.

Social welfare programmes have been robust, with over 3,000 social studies conducted to tailor assistance to those in need, while environmental initiatives aim to combat desertification and preserve biodiversity.

Dhahirah governorate is charting a course of comprehensive development, reflecting Oman’s aspirations for a prosperous future that balances progress with cultural and environmental preservation.