Muscat: The agreement aims to strengthen the safety framework of Oman’s growing adventure tourism sector by developing specialised rescue and ambulance capabilities, improving risk management practices, and preparing national personnel to handle emergencies in mountainous environments.

The programme was signed by His Excellency Azzan bin Qasim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, and Brigadier General Engineer Ali bin Saif Al Muqbali, Deputy Chairman of the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority, in the presence of officials and specialists from both entities.

The initiative reflects ongoing cooperation between the two authorities to support the development of adventure tourism in Oman and enhance the ability of specialised companies and service providers to respond effectively to different emergency situations.

Under the programme, national human resources working in adventure tourism will receive specialised training in first aid, mountain rescue, emergency response and safety procedures in line with international best practices.

Speaking on the occasion, His Excellency Al Busaidi said the programme would enhance preparedness and strengthen safety protocols in adventure tourism activities, keeping pace with the rapid growth of the sector in Oman.

He highlighted that the initiative focuses on empowering Omani professionals through advanced training in first aid, mountain rescue and emergency management, which will improve response times and operational efficiency in challenging environments.

He added that strengthening the safety system is a key pillar in ensuring the sustainability of adventure tourism, enhancing visitors’ confidence and supporting Oman’s position as a safe and competitive regional and international tourism destination.

Brigadier General Engineer Ali bin Saif Al Muqbali said the programme represents an institutional partnership aimed at improving the readiness of national teams involved in adventure tourism through specialised skills in ambulance services, rescue operations and risk management.

He noted that the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority would contribute its expertise, technical capabilities and training resources to qualify workers in mountain rescue, first aid and emergency response.
The programme includes specialised courses covering first aid and safety on mountain trails, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and risk assessment for mountain adventure activities.
It also includes cooperation in spreading awareness materials on first aid guidelines, mountain climbing safety, adventure activity precautions and emergency procedures.

The initiative is expected to support the development of Oman’s adventure tourism sector, strengthen national capabilities and reinforce the Sultanate’s reputation as a safe destination for sustainable adventure experiences.