SALALAH: Dhofar is experiencing a thriving tourist season, with large numbers of visitors from both within and outside Oman flocking to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and mild climate.
Salalah attracts the lion’s share of these visitors. However, amidst this great influx, pressing challenges arise that require immediate attention to ensure a sustainable tourist experience.
Traffic congestion in Salalah frustrates visitors and diminishes their tourist experience.
During peak season, cars pile up on the streets, leading to delays in mobility and spoiling the pleasure of exploration.
This situation demands innovative solutions, including improving and expanding the road network, alongside enhancing the public transportation system.
Developing and expanding the road network should be a top priority, in addition to improving accommodation and transport facilities.
Long-term investment in infrastructure will ensure a comfortable and smooth tourist experience, enhancing Dhofar’s capacity to host larger numbers of visitors.
Despite ongoing efforts, some areas in Dhofar still suffer from a lack of infrastructure. Hotels and tourist facilities are under increasing pressure, and visitors need more options for accommodation and transport. Rapid development of this infrastructure is necessary to meet the growing demand.
Public transport suffers from low uptake, exacerbating reliance on private cars and worsening traffic congestion. This situation requires a shift in prevailing culture through awareness campaigns that encourage the use of mass transit and highlight its economic and environmental benefits.
High-quality and reasonably priced public transport services should be offered, with parking facilities provided at tourist sites to encourage visitors to use mass transit. This shift will ease pressure on the roads, reduce traffic congestion, and promote the sustainability of the tourism sector.
Visitors tend to concentrate on Salalah, leading to the neglect of other areas in Dhofar. It is crucial to distribute events and tourist activities more evenly across the governorate to encourage visitors to explore the full diversity and beauty of Dhofar.
Equitably distributing entertainment and cultural events across various areas will attract visitors to new locations.
Designating specific zones for events and connecting them to the public transport network will facilitate access and enhance the diversity of tourist options.
Comprehensive tourism marketing for different areas should be a focus, with promotional campaigns highlighting natural beauty, cultural diversity, and recreational activities.
This diverse marketing will attract a wide range of visitors and strengthen Dhofar’s status as a global tourist destination.
The Governorate of Dhofar possesses unique tourism potential and requires concerted efforts and strategic thinking. By addressing current challenges and implementing the proposed solutions, Dhofar can maintain its allure and achieve sustainable development, becoming a preferred tourist destination globally.
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