Monday 12 / May / 2025
Muscat--- Nine contracts were signed in Muscat today for the establishment of environmental investment projects in seven nature reserves. The projects aim to promote sustainable development, protect ecosystems, promote tourism and environmental education, raise the volume of revenues, diversify sources of income and ensure the sustainability of natural resources. The projects cost more than RO 44 million.
The signing ceremony was held under the auspices of Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism.
The agreements included the development, operation and management of Ras Al Shajar Nature Reserve, Turtle Reserve, Oryx Reserve, and Wetlands Reserve. They also provide for the development, operation and management of "Lagashlion" site in Jabal Samhan Reserve, the "Hayur" site in the Wilayat of Mirbat and Khor Al Mughsail Reserve in the Wilayat of Salalah. This is in addition to the establishment of an eco-tourism resort and Al Nujoom park in Al Jabal Al Gharbi Starlight Reserve.
In a speech at the ceremony, Dr. Abdullah bin Ali Al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority, said that the ceremony marks the opening of the first set of eco-tourism projects in partnership with other parties concerned with the prime aim of achieving a sustainable green economy.
Al Amri added that the Environment Authority engaged earlier in a programme to secure the sustainability of biodiversity of various species and the protection of environmental systems and habitats.
Al Amri pointed out that the Environment Authority has simplified procedures by issuing environmental permits by 96 percent and that it introduced a 40 percent reduction in the cost of permits fees for various economic environmental activities.
Within the context of the National Net Zero Strategy, the Environment Authority has embarked to chart out a clear path for the Omani economy to become emissions-free and sustainable and environment-friendly by the year 2050, Al Amri affirmed.
“Partnership with the private sector in the field of ecotourism takes shape through investment in nine projects within reserves in the Governorate of Muscat, the Governorate of South A’Sharqiyah, the Governorate of Al Wusta, the Governorate of A’Dakhiliyah and the Governorate of Dhofar,” said Al Amri.
He explained that the projects benefit the private sector which, he said, is entrusted to establish environment-friendly accommodation facilities featuring advanced specifications that meet all environmental requirements, in addition to the development, operation and management of nature reserves in an integrated manner.
For his part, Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group), said that the signing of the contracts reflects Omran Group's commitment to promote sustainable ecotourism through the establishment of development projects that enhance the Sultanate of Oman's position as a leading destination for attracting enthusiasts of nature and sustainable tourism.
He added that these projects will help enrich tourism experiences that strike a balance between environmental protection and sustainable economic development in line with the goals of Oman Vision 2040. “Through this strategic partnership, we are working to implement an integrated model for developing tourism destinations based on preserving natural resources and creating added value,” Al Mahrouqi explained.
--- Ends/Bishara/KH
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