Dhofar’s Digital Shift Accelerates: What the 169,000 Downloads of ‘Sikka’ and ‘Mawasim Dhofar’ Mean for Business Growth in Oman
Salalah — Dhofar Governorate is rapidly advancing its digital transformation, highlighted by the success of two key mobile applications, “Sikka” and “Mawasim Dhofar,” which have gained significant popularity among both residents and visitors since their launch.
“Sikka,” designed to streamline accommodation bookings during the Khareef season, has been downloaded over 38,000 times, with 28,000 downloads from iOS users and 10,000 from Android users. This uptake demonstrates the increasing reliance on digital tools for convenient and efficient travel planning.
Even more impressive is “Mawasim Dhofar,” an all-encompassing tourism guide offering information on events and seasonal activities across the governorate. This app has achieved 131,000 downloads—81,000 on iOS and 50,000 on Android—highlighting a strong preference for integrated, on-the-go access to tourism services.
Beyond tourism, Dhofar is broadening its digital offerings with integrated e-government services aimed at simplifying everyday processes for various community sectors. These include an archival data request system for building permits, a platform for issuing temporary permits, an e-ticketing system, and “Sahala,” an interactive smart chat service designed to provide users with quick, intuitive information access.
During the first half of 2025, these digital platforms facilitated 3,645 building permit transactions, 9,841 lease contracts, issued 686 temporary permits, and processed 479 excavation permits. The volume of online transactions reflects increasing public confidence in digital services and enhanced efficiency in service delivery.
Collectively, these initiatives underscore Dhofar’s strategic commitment to comprehensive digital transformation. The goal is to enhance the quality of life by delivering integrated, efficient, and user-centric public and tourism services, ultimately boosting satisfaction among both residents and visitors.
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Dhofar’s rapid adoption of digital platforms like “Sikka” and “Mawasim Dhofar” underscores a significant shift toward smart, user-centric tourism and e-government services, presenting a huge opportunity for businesses to innovate in hospitality, event management, and digital service delivery. However, the increasing reliance on these platforms also highlights the need for robust cybersecurity and seamless infrastructure to sustain trust and service quality. Smart investors should prioritize tech-enabled ventures and partnerships that enhance digital experiences, while entrepreneurs should focus on integrating AI and data analytics to further personalize and streamline services.