Muscat: The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) in Dhofar Governorate is ramping up its efforts with a thorough field awareness campaign themed "Your trust is our destination." The campaign coincides with the 2025 Khareef Tourism Season and fits with the broader strategy announced by the Dhofar Governor's Office and Oman Vision 2040.
Dr. Taie bin Salem Al Junaibi, Acting Director General of Consumer Protection in Dhofar, stated that the Authority is conducting field campaigns to ensure that suppliers and vendors comply with the rules and regulations. It also seeks to prevent fraudulent commercial practices that may affect visitors or residents throughout the Khareef season, as well as improve communication channels with consumers to receive and effectively address reports and complaints.
Dr. Al Junaibi clarified that the effort, which begins this July, involves a variety of field activities throughout the governorate, such as shopping malls, tourist attractions, community organizations, and the Authority's office in Atin, which will be accessible to visitors from July through the end of September. The campaign has a broad audience, with a particular emphasis on visitors, families, and children.
The effort will use a variety of awarenessraising techniques, such as interactive booths, workshops, and visual displays. Furthermore, modern technological tools such as virtual reality (VR) glasses, interactive screens, and educational tablets will be utilized to familiarize youngsters with the “Young Consumer” application. Children will also participate in colourable drawings and other interactive activities intended to teach them about mindful consumption and consumer rights, in addition to entertainment segments held in outdoor areas.
A mobile exhibition displaying banned and noncompliant items will also travel the region, utilizing reallife examples to raise awareness of prospective dangers and instruct consumers on how to check product safety. Smart stands will be placed at Salalah Airport and the Harit border crossing, providing digital codes for direct access to campaign information and the Authority's e-services. Awareness billboards will also be installed along public highways and in key cities.
The Authority will also host the second Consumer Protection Forum, themed "Foundations and Rights of Tourists and Residents. " The forum will address consumer protection concerns particular to the Khareef season, with a focus on the needs and rights of visitors and residents—two critical components of Dhofar's commercial and tourism sectors.
Dr. Al Junaibi went on to say that inspection trips to markets in Dhofar during the first half of 2025 reached 19,582, with 14,317 visits to institutions. During this time, the Directorate obtained 555 consumer complaints, achieving a 97% resolution rate, and 214 reports, with a 99% resolution rate.
The Consumer Protection Authority aims to promote collaboration with different public and private organisations via coordinated activities, shared responsibilities, and logistical and informational assistance. These initiatives are intended to guarantee a successful tourism season and to provide a pleasant, integrated experience for both visitors and inhabitants.
