Oman bans abalone fishing until November 2027

Muscat: The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources has issued a ministerial decision banning the fishing and collection of abalone in Oman until November 1, 2027.

According to Ministerial Decision No. 264/2026, the ban will take effect from the date the decision comes into force and will remain in place until November 1, 2027.

The decision also prohibits the possession, trading or handling of abalone during the ban period, including transportation, buying, selling and exporting.

Furthermore, the possession of abalone harvesting tools and equipment of any kind will be prohibited aboard fishing boats and vessels near coastal areas and fishing grounds throughout the ban period.

However, an exception has been granted for quantities of abalone legally harvested before the decision comes into effect. These quantities may be traded or exported, provided the necessary permits are obtained from the competent authorities.

The decision was issued by Dr Saud bin Hamoud al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, on October 20, 2026.

The regulation will come into force on the day following its publication in the Official Gazette.