Thursday, March 28, 2024 | Ramadan 17, 1445 H
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EDITOR IN CHIEF- ABDULLAH BIN SALIM AL SHUEILI

Deem, a jewel in the mist

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Dhalkout: During Khareef, the clouds hang over the Sarfeet Mountains overlooking the village of Deem in the Wilayat of Dhalkout in the Governorate of Dhofar. The mountains are covered with mist creating a fascinating view that attracts many visitors, photographers and painters. Deem or ‘Ghudo Deem’ is the last Omani village in the Wilayat of Dhalkout. It is one of the villages of Khadhrafi, which is adjacent to the Yemen. It is 150 kilometres far from Salalah. Located on the road linking the Sultanate to Yemen, near the border port of Sarfeet, Deem is distinguished by its unique strategic location. Most of the villagers are either traders and farmers, who rear cattle or grow grass for livestock.


They breed camels, cows and goats and provide good care for them as they represent a source of income for the villagers.


“The villagers have different types of livestock, such as camels, cattle and goats. They are source of livelihood and trade for them,” said Shaikh Issa bin Tarshum Habis.


He said the villagers cultivate various types of seasonal agricultural crops, mainly maize, and cowpea, known locally as Al Dogur. The cowpea of Deem is characterised by large size and free of pests. Deem is known for its beautiful pastures, the variety of its plants, and the natural mountain honey, which is the source of income for many honey collectors. They collect the honey from caves and valleys or from hives on the trees. The season of natural honey starts in October each year.


Deem is blessed with many springs including Deem, Thableel, Sarfeet, Qahood and Akoub

There are also many old caves that were frequented in the past by the inhabitants which protected them from rain and cold. These caves include Dherbait, Howsam, Thrarout and Manaarait.


Many families still retain their old houses made of logs and grasses. The heritage houses reflect the life of ancient Oman and draw many tourists.


Salim bin Ahmed Raafait, Deputy Wali of Dhalkout, said, “Like all other villages and towns in the Sultanate, Deem has enjoyed the fruits of prosperity of the auspicious era of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, in various sectors, such as electricity, communications, education, health and transportation. Deem is linked to all the neighbouring villages by paved roads.”


The Ministry of Education has also built a school with three floors for the students of the village and nearby communities. It is provided with all the necessary educational requirements. — ONA


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