SALALAH - The fifth Press Forum has officially commenced in the Dhofar Governorate under the organization of the Oman Journalists Association (OJA). Bringing together more than 200 media professionals and journalists from across the Sultanate, the event focuses on the media's vital role in national development, investment, tourism promotion, press freedoms, and the integration of artificial intelligence in journalism.
Hosted in alignment with the goals of Oman Vision 2040, the forum provides a platform to explore the strategic economic and tourism potential of Dhofar. The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of Shaikh Salim bin Mustahail al Maashani, Adviser at the Diwan of Royal Court, and was attended by ministers, dignitaries, members of the State Council and Majlis Ash’shura, and media figures. The inauguration included the "Dhofar from the Sky" photography exhibition, an OJA documentary, and a presentation by Dhofar Municipality showcasing regional development milestones and upcoming projects.
Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak al Araimi, Chairman of the OJA, emphasized that hosting the forum in Dhofar underscores the governorate's historical importance and its expanding status as an economic and investment hub. He expressed gratitude to the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), the event's primary sponsor, along with other supporting public and private entities.
A central highlight of the event was the release of the Press Freedoms in the Sultanate of Oman for 2025 report, presented by the OJA's Press Freedoms Committee. Dr. Khalid bin Rashid al Adawi, Chairman of the committee, stated that the report serves as a professional reference constructed from field data and official records.
According to the report, Oman climbed seven spots in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, securing the 127th position globally, up from 134th in 2024. This advancement is credited to structural and legislative reforms, notably the Media Law enacted under Royal Decree No. 58/2024 and its Executive Regulation issued via Ministerial Decision No. 165/2025. These regulations guarantee freedom of expression, ensure access to information, and prohibit prior censorship.
The report also documented that 69 media and press licenses were granted in 2025. While the count of print press institutions remained steady at six, online visual channels rose from 13 in 2024 to 19 in 2025. Additionally, the OJA facilitated nine local and international training sessions, benefiting 119 media professionals.
During the forum, specialized panel discussions were held. The first session addressed investment prospects in Dhofar's industrial and free zones, featuring insights from the leadership of Al Mazunah Free Zone, Raysut Industrial City, and Thamrait Industrial City. The second panel examined how media and artificial intelligence can propel Oman Vision 2040, featuring experts in the digital economy, civil aviation, and tourism. The forum's itinerary will continue with field visits to key economic, developmental, and tourist landmarks throughout Dhofar.
