Dhofar action plan unveiled ahead of Khareef

BUSINESS REPORTER

MUSCAT, JUNE 3

Dhofar Governorate has recorded significant economic development in the first quarter of this year, underpinned by strong momentum in commercial and industrial licensing activities, alongside clear growth in the construction and services sectors. This reflects the vitality of the investment environment and the continued flow of economic activities across the governorate’s various wilayats, according to statistical data published by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP).

Mohammed bin Khalifa al Badrani, Director General of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion in Dhofar Governorate, said the Directorate has developed an integrated field action plan ahead of the Khareef season. The plan aims to intensify monitoring and inspection activities to ensure establishments comply with applicable regulations, monitor the availability of strategic food stock reserves, and ensure the readiness of fuel stations and essential services. These efforts contribute to market stability, enhance the quality of services provided to visitors and residents, and support the governorate’s comprehensive development objectives, he noted.

The indicators showed the registration of around 1,059 new commercial registrations (CRs), with Salalah leading economic activity with 924 CRs, followed by Taqah with 29 CRs, Mirbat (26), and Dhalkut recording notable growth of 275%. As a result, commercial registrations in the governorate increased to 70,195 by the end of the first quarter, reflecting the continued expansion of the commercial base.

With regard to commercial licences, the governorate recorded advanced levels of efficiency in processing transactions, with 7,448 commercial licences completed during the same period, bringing the total to 73,052 licences. Licences automatically issued also saw significant growth as part of efforts to facilitate the business environment, reaching 8,656 licences during the first quarter and bringing the total to 113,368 licences. Construction and contracting activities emerged as one of the key drivers of economic growth.

In the industrial sector, 645 industrial licences were completed during the first quarter, raising the total across the governorate to 9,201 licences. Salalah accounted for the largest share with 514 licences, followed by Taqah with 37 licences, Mirbat with 27 licences, and Shalim & Hallaniyat Islands with 24 licences.

In terms of attracting foreign investment, Dhofar Governorate recorded 70 new foreign investment registrations during Q1, bringing the total to 15,996 registrations. Most of the new registrations were concentrated in Salalah, which recorded 69 new registrations. The figures indicate continued expansion in investments and diversification of investment opportunities, strengthening the governorate’s ability to attract quality projects that support economic growth.

As part of preparations for the Khareef season, the Directorate carried out metrological verification of fuel pumps and scales used by precious metals and jewellery shops to ensure compliance with approved standards and stamps. The Directorate also inspected the readiness of fuel stations and the cleanliness of their facilities to serve visitors.

In addition, the Directorate continues its regulatory role through the issuance and monitoring of exhibition licences and the supervision of gas filling plants and gas distributors across the governorate, ensuring the smooth delivery of services and the availability of essential goods at high quality standards that reflect the importance of the Khareef tourism season.