A Saudi tourist has died after a fatal fall in Oman’s Jabal Samhan mountains, located in the Dhofar Governorate, authorities confirmed on Monday. The man, identified as Saud bin Maadi Al-Qahtani, was an avid traveler and mountain climbing enthusiast.
According to a statement by the Saudi Embassy in Muscat, Al-Qahtani slipped from a steep slope while exploring the mountainous area in the Wilayat of Mirbat.
The embassy added that it is working closely with Omani authorities to finalize the procedures for transferring the deceased’s body back to the Kingdom.
The Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority in Dhofar Governorate said rescue teams, supported by local citizens, were immediately dispatched to the site of the accident.
Despite their quick response and attempts to save the tourist, the injuries sustained from the fall proved fatal. Paramedics later pronounced him dead at the scene.
The embassy expressed its condolences to Al-Qahtani’s family and urged Saudi citizens and residents to exercise caution when visiting Oman’s mountain regions.
This tragic incident has once again drawn attention to the dangers associated with mountain climbing in Oman, particularly during the Khareef season.
From late June to September, Dhofar undergoes a seasonal monsoon transformation, turning the landscape into lush green valleys and mist-covered peaks.
While the scenery attracts thousands of tourists annually, the wet conditions also make trails slippery and hazardous.
Omani authorities have repeatedly issued warnings to both locals and visitors to exercise caution during this season.
The Civil Defence stressed the importance of following preventive guidelines, avoiding dangerous areas, and ensuring adequate preparation before attempting hikes or climbs.
“Mountain regions in Dhofar are beautiful but demand extra care,” an official from the Civil Defence said. “The Khareef rains make the slopes unstable, and a small misstep can lead to a serious or fatal accident.”
Jabal Samhan, one of Oman’s most famous natural landmarks, is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic views overlooking the Arabian Sea.
It is a popular attraction for hikers, adventurers, and tourists during the monsoon season. However, its rugged terrain poses significant risks, particularly for inexperienced climbers.
The tragic death of Al-Qahtani serves as a sobering reminder of these dangers.
In recent years, Oman has invested in strengthening its emergency response systems in mountainous regions, but officials stress that personal responsibility and caution remain key to preventing such incidents.
Tourism in Dhofar continues to flourish during Khareef, with visitors from the GCC and beyond drawn to the cooler climate and lush landscapes.
Authorities, however, are urging travelers to balance adventure with safety by adhering to official guidance and avoiding high-risk areas.
As Al-Qahtani’s body is repatriated to Saudi Arabia, his passing underscores the importance of safety awareness in adventure tourism.
Both Omani officials and the Saudi Embassy emphasized that while the mountains remain a breathtaking attraction, they also demand respect and vigilance from all who visit.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members