Be safe as all roads lead to Dhofar
Published: 04:07 PM,Jul 22,2025 | EDITED : 08:07 PM,Jul 22,2025
Be safe as all roads lead to Dhofar
As the Khareef Dhofar Season unfolds, the Dhofar Governorate attracts tourists from both within the Sultanate of Oman and abroad. Travellers should be prepared for the influx of visitors and plan accordingly to fully enjoy the unique atmosphere keeping in mind road safety that requires adherence to traffic rules and avoiding wrong practices to ensure everyone's safety.
Failure to adhere to traffic safety regulations can expose others to serious consequences. General guidelines have been issued that include adhering to the speed limit, leaving sufficient distance between vehicles, wearing a seatbelt and avoiding distractions while using mobile phones while driving. Drivers should also check the condition of their vehicles, the validity of their tyres and lights; and the condition of the road before setting off.
The Royal Oman Police is keen to provide increased security and safety for road users by deploying police patrols and speed control devices to enhance traffic safety, provide assistance and curb behaviours that pose a risk to road users.
The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology also announced the readiness of the roads leading to Dhofar Governorate, following the completion of preventive maintenance and traffic safety work, starting from the border crossings and extending to the various tourist sites in Dhofar Governorate. The Sultanate of Oman's efforts in the field of traffic safety are based on the ongoing pursuit of achieving Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises community safety and providing a safe and sustainable environment. This vision affirms the Sultanate of Oman's ongoing commitment to improving the traffic environment, providing safe roads and developing road infrastructure. It also organises ongoing awareness and educational campaigns for drivers and pedestrians about the dangers of unsafe driving.
Community partnership considers as a fundamental pillar of the success of road safety efforts.
Citizens and residents play a vital role in supporting these efforts by adhering to traffic rules, actively participating in awareness campaigns and sharing responsibility with police officers to spread traffic awareness. It is worth noting that the number of deaths from traffic accidents in the Sultanate of Oman decreased by 35 per cent between 2013 and 2024. Therefore, let us work together to reduce the rate of traffic fatalities.
Fatigue and improper overtaking are among the most significant causes of traffic accidents.
Studies have shown that a driver falling asleep for just two seconds while driving at 100 km/h poses a significant risk, as they cover a distance of 60 metres without any control over the vehicle. Therefore, if a driver feels drowsy, they should immediately pull off the road to get some sleep or rest; and walk around their vehicle for a while to stimulate their blood circulation.
Scientifically proven, this simple break helps energise the driver for a few hours and reduces the risk of fatigue, although it does not completely solve the problem. Improper overtaking is also a major cause of many traffic accidents on two-way roads. Therefore, drivers should follow traffic rules when attempting to overtake and ensure that the driver in front of them does not intend to turn left. Despite the tireless efforts of the competent authorities to monitor and detect traffic violations, particularly those related to exceeding speed limits and committing other violations, some still persist.
'Adherence to traffic regulations reflects your awareness, concern and commitment to keeping roads safe for all', Royal Oman Police stated.
Driving remains an art, custom and a discipline that must be respected. When rights are respected, there is a commitment from everyone, which contributes to avoiding traffic obstruction, allowing everyone to reach their destinations safely and reassured.
Safety tips
- Avoid driving at night and never attempt to drive while tired
- Be aware that camels are frequently known to cross the roads
- Sandstorms, unpredictable weather can lead to fatalities
- It is safer to consider travelling by bus or flight
Failure to adhere to traffic safety regulations can expose others to serious consequences. General guidelines have been issued that include adhering to the speed limit, leaving sufficient distance between vehicles, wearing a seatbelt and avoiding distractions while using mobile phones while driving. Drivers should also check the condition of their vehicles, the validity of their tyres and lights; and the condition of the road before setting off.
The Royal Oman Police is keen to provide increased security and safety for road users by deploying police patrols and speed control devices to enhance traffic safety, provide assistance and curb behaviours that pose a risk to road users.
The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology also announced the readiness of the roads leading to Dhofar Governorate, following the completion of preventive maintenance and traffic safety work, starting from the border crossings and extending to the various tourist sites in Dhofar Governorate. The Sultanate of Oman's efforts in the field of traffic safety are based on the ongoing pursuit of achieving Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises community safety and providing a safe and sustainable environment. This vision affirms the Sultanate of Oman's ongoing commitment to improving the traffic environment, providing safe roads and developing road infrastructure. It also organises ongoing awareness and educational campaigns for drivers and pedestrians about the dangers of unsafe driving.
Community partnership considers as a fundamental pillar of the success of road safety efforts.
Citizens and residents play a vital role in supporting these efforts by adhering to traffic rules, actively participating in awareness campaigns and sharing responsibility with police officers to spread traffic awareness. It is worth noting that the number of deaths from traffic accidents in the Sultanate of Oman decreased by 35 per cent between 2013 and 2024. Therefore, let us work together to reduce the rate of traffic fatalities.
Fatigue and improper overtaking are among the most significant causes of traffic accidents.
Studies have shown that a driver falling asleep for just two seconds while driving at 100 km/h poses a significant risk, as they cover a distance of 60 metres without any control over the vehicle. Therefore, if a driver feels drowsy, they should immediately pull off the road to get some sleep or rest; and walk around their vehicle for a while to stimulate their blood circulation.
Scientifically proven, this simple break helps energise the driver for a few hours and reduces the risk of fatigue, although it does not completely solve the problem. Improper overtaking is also a major cause of many traffic accidents on two-way roads. Therefore, drivers should follow traffic rules when attempting to overtake and ensure that the driver in front of them does not intend to turn left. Despite the tireless efforts of the competent authorities to monitor and detect traffic violations, particularly those related to exceeding speed limits and committing other violations, some still persist.
'Adherence to traffic regulations reflects your awareness, concern and commitment to keeping roads safe for all', Royal Oman Police stated.
Driving remains an art, custom and a discipline that must be respected. When rights are respected, there is a commitment from everyone, which contributes to avoiding traffic obstruction, allowing everyone to reach their destinations safely and reassured.
Safety tips
- Avoid driving at night and never attempt to drive while tired
- Be aware that camels are frequently known to cross the roads
- Sandstorms, unpredictable weather can lead to fatalities
- It is safer to consider travelling by bus or flight