New Developments from Oman News Agency: Key Insights for Investors and Entrepreneurs Navigating the Omani Market
Muscat, July 13 – The Sultanate of Oman places significant importance on marine environmental protection و sustainability. The country has implemented a range of initiatives and policies aimed at preserving its marine environment.
With coastlines stretching approximately 3,165 kilometers, Oman is home to rich biodiversity, including coral reefs, seabirds, fish, and endangered species such as sea turtles and certain types of whales and dolphins.
ال Environment Authority is developing strategies and plans aimed specifically at protecting the coasts and the marine environment, conducting scientific research to address environmental challenges such as pollution, overfishing، و تغير المناخ in alignment with Oman’s Environmental Strategy و Vision 2040.
Engineer Ahmed bin Said Al-Shuqaily, Director of the Marine Environment Conservation Department, stated that Oman has initiated various projects, notably the “Artificial Reefs” project, which aims to rehabilitate damaged coral reefs, enhance biodiversity, support sustainable fishing, and protect coastal areas.
Oman has also established several marine reserves, including the Turtle Reserve، ال Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve، و Khor reserves in Dhofar Governorate, providing safe habitats for endangered marine species.
The Sultanate emphasizes international collaboration in marine environmental protection, participating in global agreements such as the Biodiversity Convention, which focuses on conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable use.
In line with its commitment to international agreements, Oman fulfills its obligations by submitting national reports for regional and global agreements, including the CITES for international trade in endangered species, the Ramsar Convention on wetlands, and the Memorandum of Understanding for the protection of sea turtles in the Indian Ocean. The authority also enhances community awareness through educational campaigns and workshops, educating citizens and residents on the importance of marine conservation.
ال Environment Authority’s national efforts target the protection of endangered marine species through environmental laws, including the Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Law و ال Natural Reserve and Wildlife Conservation Law. These laws help safeguard beaches, marine life, and sensitive ecosystems like coral reefs and mangroves while regulating waste disposal into coastal and marine environments.
The Authority engages in projects to rehabilitate coral reefs in collaboration with national entities. This includes sinking military equipment and deploying concrete blocks to create favorable conditions for coral growth and marine species reproduction. Furthermore, the Authority conducts annual pollution monitoring projects along the Omani coastline from Musandam to Dhofar to assess pollution levels, particularly in industrial port areas.
The Authority utilizes modern technologies to monitor marine species, especially whales and sea turtles, attaching tracking devices to study their behavior and feeding areas. This year, a final phase of a whale and dolphin survey in Musandam will inform a national management plan to protect marine mammals.
Dr. Amer bin Nasser Al-Muta’ani, President of the Omani Environment Association, highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the Association and the Environment Authority on various research and conservation projects since the Association’s establishment in 2004. The Association is implementing four key projects focused on conserving marine environments, including studies on whales, dolphins, and coral reefs, along with awareness initiatives regarding the importance of the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve.
The Association performs substantial outreach and educational activities designed to raise awareness of marine environmental issues among all community segments. It provides research results to the Environment Authority to assist in the development of conservation laws and initiatives.
There are numerous threats to Oman’s marine environment, including natural events like storms and climate change, as well as challenges related to overfishing, bycatch, plastic pollution, oil spills, and irresponsible tourism activities.
The primary role of the Omani Environment Association is to promote environmental awareness across communities, emphasizing the importance of protecting ecosystems and biodiversity for future generations. The Association aims to launch initiatives for community engagement and education to foster a conservation-focused mentality.
Oman’s waters are home to many rare marine species, several of which are endangered. The environment association conducts studies on critical marine habitats and endangered species, aiming to provide applicable recommendations for conservation efforts. Initiatives targeting changes in daily behaviors and practices in coastal regions are also underway.
In closing, the Omani Environment Association is committed to a variety of awareness and educational programs targeting diverse community segments. These initiatives promote the responsibility of all individuals to protect their environment and resources for their and their children’s future.
The Sultanate of Oman is enhancing its management of marine reserves, recognizing their fundamental role in ensuring marine environmental protection and biodiversity conservation, especially in light of increasing threats from climate change, pollution, and overfishing. The Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve is highlighted as a vital habitat for sea turtles and coral reefs, also serving as an essential stopover for migratory seabirds.
تحليل خاص من عمانت | تصفح سوق عُمان
The recent emphasis on marine environmental protection in Oman presents unique opportunities for businesses, particularly in sustainable tourism and eco-friendly products. Investors should consider aligning their strategies with the country’s commitment to biodiversity and environmental stewardship, as these areas are likely to see significant growth and support from both government initiatives and public interest. However, the risks associated with increasing regulations on fishing and coastal development require careful navigation and proactive compliance strategies.
المصدر: أخبار عُمان
Arabic 
English 
Persian