In response to social media buzz on civic services, Dhofar Municipality has issued a statement detailing the measures taken to address various concerns raised by residents and visitors. The municipality emphasised its commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment, as well as upholding the cultural values of the region. It confirmed that a campaign has been launched to remove informal camps that sprung up in public areas.
‘Efforts are ongoing to identify and provide suitable alternatives in accordance with local regulations.’ This move follows several citizens voicing concern on social media about the proliferation of unregulated camps, which they felt were defiling the natural beauty of Dhofar while posing potential safety hazards. Frustrated with the unauthorised camps, one took to X.
“These have not been removed,” he wrote, highlighting the need for quicker action. In response to concerns about general hygiene and food safety, the municipality informed that it has taken action against businesses that failed to meet sanitation standards. ‘Any activity in which workers did not adhere to general hygiene requirements were issued violation notices,’ the municipality stated.
Additionally, operations where animals were slaughtered without following health regulations were shut down and offenders were referred for legal action. Public reaction to these measures was mixed. While some residents praised the municipality’s swift response, others raised additional concerns.
One resident specifically called for the removal of expatriates from food preparation roles, particularly in kiosks and carts offering traditional Omani dishes, arguing that such positions should be reserved for Omani citizens. Dhofar Municipality also addressed concerns regarding activities organised by private sector institutions that were seen as conflicting with Omani cultural values. The municipality confirmed that it closely monitors such events and has taken steps to stop activities that violate public morals and the values of Omani society.
Muslim al Shaloli, another X user, thanked the municipality for its efforts but urged the civic body to pay closer attention to the names of event venues and cafes, suggesting that foreign names should be replaced with Arabic ones to preserve national identity. In response to a widely circulated video showing a site of food carts and stalls near Khor al Daharez, the municipality announced plans to develop it in the near future. This announcement follows several residents raising concern about the location and conditions of these food stalls.
Alawi BaOmar suggested relocating the kiosks to a more appropriate site within Al Daharez Park, emphasising the need for better organisation. In a statement, Dhofar Municipality reaffirmed its dedication to improve the quality of life for all residents and visitors to the governorate. The municipality also thanked the public for their feedback and assured them that it remains committed to providing comfort and stability for everyone in the governorate.
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