The 2nd annual Dhofar Forum, which took place in Salalah, focused on the prospects of institutional integration, partnership, and economic development in Dhofar Governorate. Organized by the business world magazine “Alam Al-Iqtisad,” in cooperation with government institutions and private sector establishments, the forum aimed to bring together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for transforming the region. The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of HH Sayyid Marwan Turki Al Said, Governor of Dhofar, and featured speeches from prominent figures in the region, including Dhofar Municipality Chairman Dr. Ahmed Mohsin Al Ghassani.
Dr. Al Ghassani highlighted recent developments and efforts made to promote tourism in Dhofar Governorate. He noted that the region received about 1.5 million tourists in 2023, with a significant portion arriving during the Khareef (monsoon) season. Tourism spending during this time amounted to OMR103 million, demonstrating the potential for economic growth in the region. Additionally, charter flights brought in more tourism spending worth OMR23 million during the same year, further boosting the local economy. These numbers underscore the importance of developing the tourism sector as a key driver of economic development in Dhofar Governorate.
Said Masoud Al-Ma’ashani, speaking on behalf of the forum’s organizing committee, emphasized the need to capitalize on Dhofar Governorate’s comparative advantages and align economic activities to achieve the goals of Oman Vision 2040. By focusing on sustainable economic development and fostering collaboration between the government sector, private sector, and civil society institutions, the forum aimed to lay the groundwork for future growth and prosperity in the region. Abdullah Mohammed Al Abri, Director General of the Partnership and Privatization Unit at the Ministry of Finance, presented a working paper outlining key areas of cooperation to support economic development initiatives in Dhofar Governorate.
A dialogue session at the forum entitled “The Importance of Partnership and Integration in Supporting Economic Development in Dhofar Governorate” underscored the critical role that all sectors play in enhancing the region’s competitiveness. By fostering partnerships and collaboration among stakeholders, Dhofar Governorate can leverage its unique strengths and unlock new opportunities for growth. The forum also featured visual presentations and working papers on sustainable economic development, providing attendees with valuable insights and strategies for advancing economic progress in the region.
Overall, the 2nd annual Dhofar Forum in Salalah served as a platform for stakeholders to come together and discuss ways to drive economic development and integration in Dhofar Governorate. Through a series of speeches, presentations, and dialogue sessions, attendees explored strategies for leveraging the region’s comparative advantages, promoting tourism growth, and fostering collaboration across sectors. By aligning economic activities with the goals of Oman Vision 2040 and emphasizing sustainable development practices, the forum aimed to set a roadmap for future prosperity and growth in Dhofar Governorate. With a focus on partnership and integration, the forum highlighted the importance of collective action in supporting the region’s economic development goals.
