Environment Authority expands nature reserves network to cover over 17,000 square kilometres in Oman

Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman currently features 32 nature reserves spanning approximately 17,839.6 square kilometers, representing 5.76 percent of the country’s total area. Designed to protect marine, wetland, and terrestrial ecosystems, these reserves serve as a cornerstone of Oman's national environmental strategy, ensuring the long-term sustainability of native flora and fauna for future generations.

Zahra bint Khalf Al Shariqi, Head of the Nature Reserves Management Section at the Environment Authority, highlighted that these protected areas go beyond conservation to support scientific research, environmental monitoring, sustainable tourism, and resource regulation. Recent milestones include six new reserves created over the last five years, including the Hallaniyat Islands marine buffer zone, as well as the addition of Al Jabal Al Akhdar and Al Sareen reserves to UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

To safeguard high-priority species like the Arabian leopard, Arabian oryx, and sea turtles, the Environment Authority utilizes advanced technology, camera traps, and regular field assessments. Integrated management plans also aim to build ecosystem resilience against climate change by expanding mangrove restoration, protecting nesting sites, and aligning conservation efforts with the global "30x30" protection targets and UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Beyond ecological protection, the reserve system drives local economic growth by advancing ecotourism and green jobs in environmental guidance and traditional crafts. Strict visitation rules and environmental controls on investment projects allow the Environment Authority to strike a balance between economic development, community engagement, and the preservation of Oman's natural heritage.