Oman nature reserves have expanded to 32 protected sites, forming a cornerstone of the Sultanate’s environmental strategy as reports revealed major accomplishments quantified through impressive statistics that reflect the country’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development.

Expanding Protected Areas

Oman nature reserves now cover approximately 5.76% of the country’s total area, comprising terrestrial, marine, and integrated sanctuaries that safeguard critical ecosystems ranging from coral reefs and mangrove forests to mountain habitats and desert landscapes. The 32 reserves include 13 terrestrial reserves, 5 marine reserves, and 13 integrated terrestrial-marine sanctuaries, collectively protecting 17,839.57 square kilometers of diverse habitats.

The strategic placement of these reserves ensures protection for key migration corridors, breeding grounds, and endemic species habitats that are found nowhere else on Earth.

Environmental Investment

Environmental investment agreements worth OMR 44 million were signed through nine contracts focused on natural reserve development. These investments are designed to support the green economy while ensuring the long-term sustainability of Oman nature reserves, creating opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainable resource management that generate economic value while preserving biodiversity.

The investment program also includes infrastructure development within reserves, including visitor centers, research stations, and sustainable tourism facilities that enhance the visitor experience while minimizing environmental impact.

Marine Biodiversity Documentation

Comprehensive marine surveys documented 56 species of marine mammals in Omani waters, including multiple dolphin and whale species. The surveys — conducted through 54 sea voyages and 1,000 field surveys — have significantly enriched the scientific database on Oman’s marine biodiversity and informed conservation planning for marine protected areas.

The data collected provides baseline measurements for tracking changes in marine populations over time, enabling scientists to assess the effectiveness of conservation measures and adapt strategies as needed.

Wildlife Reintroduction

Hundreds of wild animals were successfully reintroduced into their natural habitats as part of ongoing conservation programs. This included the release of 290 Arabian oryx, 390 sand gazelles, and 41 Arabian gazelles into protected reserves. Genetic conservation efforts preserved 18 species through DNA extraction from 923 samples, with 557 analyzed and 366 preserved for future scientific research.

Marine Water Quality Excellence

Marine water quality assessments across 21 coastal sites achieved an outstanding average quality rating of 96%, confirming the effectiveness of Oman’s marine pollution control measures. Coral reef rehabilitation projects, including the creation of an underwater museum at the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve using eight specialized installations, further strengthened marine ecosystem protection.

The Red List index for biodiversity improved significantly from 0.89 to 0.98, reflecting the positive impact of conservation efforts across Oman nature reserves and marine protected areas.

A Regional Environmental Leader

These achievements collectively reinforce Oman’s position as an environmental leader in the region, demonstrating that economic development and environmental conservation can advance hand in hand. The network of Oman nature reserves serves as both a national asset and a global model for integrated conservation management in arid and semi-arid environments.

Source: Atheer Online Newspaper
Original Article: https://www.atheer.om/2026/01/08/115627/