The Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) in Oman has increased its operational readiness to manage the influx of residents and tourists during the annual Khareef Dhofar monsoon season. The authority has implemented a detailed field response plan aimed at enhancing safety across the Dhofar governorate, which experiences significant increases in visitor numbers during this period.
As part of the plan, emergency response points have been strategically established along the main route to Dhofar, stretching from Hamra Al Duru to Salalah, as well as along the coastal road. This network is intended to reduce emergency response times and ensure swift intervention in case of accidents or other incidents.
The CDAA has also boosted staffing at its civil defence centres throughout the governorate, supplementing personnel and equipping them with specialized firefighting, rescue, and ambulance vehicles. Advanced response units have been stationed at key locations such as Wadi Harit and Shaabat Saeed—areas known for high visitor traffic during the Khareef season—to provide rapid access and support.
In addition to fixed locations, mobile patrol units have been deployed to major tourist attractions and zones with heavy pedestrian activity. These patrols are staffed by specialists trained in water rescue and first aid, enabling immediate responses to emergencies that might arise at natural and recreational sites.
The authority’s preventive efforts include a comprehensive inspection programme managed by the Public Protection and Safety Department. This programme assesses hotels, resorts, tourist facilities, and entertainment venues for compliance with fire safety standards and other preventive measures critical to maintaining a safe environment throughout the season.
Lieutenant Yousef bin Salim al Mashykhi, an officer at the Awqad CDAA, highlighted that the enhanced preparedness is a response to the sharp rise in visitors during Khareef. He emphasized that while Dhofar’s cool climate and unique landscapes attract thousands of tourists annually, the season also poses natural hazards requiring heightened public vigilance. These hazards include rough sea conditions with waves often reaching four to five meters, strong rip currents, slippery cliffs, and waterfall basins that become especially hazardous during rainfall and persistent drizzle.
The CDAA’s comprehensive approach aims to mitigate risks and ensure that residents and visitors can safely enjoy the distinctive environment of Dhofar throughout the monsoon season.