Muscat: At a cost of more than RO 44 million, nine environmental investment projects are set to be established in seven reserves as the Environment Authority (EA) signed contracts for eco-tourism investment projects in nature reserves at a ceremony held on Monday.
The Environment Authority signed four contracts with the Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) to develop, operate and manage four nature reserves. It also signed two other agreements with the same company to develop and operate the Lajshlion site in the Jabal Samhan Reserve and the Hayur site in the Wilayat of Mirbat.
Additionally, it signed two environmental investment contracts for two sites in the Jabal Shams Starlight Reserve to establish an eco-tourism resort with Madar Resorts Company and a Star Garden project with the Omani Society for Astronomy and Space. The Authority also signed another contract with Al Majal Integrated Establishment to develop the Khor Al Mughsail Reserve in Salalah, Dhofar Governorate.
Dr Abdullah bin Ali al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority, stated, “These agreements will pave the way for eco-tourism in the country and further develop the partnership between the Environment Authority and the private sector. The projects are expected to be completed in two to four years. Some nature reserves already have ongoing activities. Once completed, the projects could bring job opportunities.” He added that the local community will have opportunities for economic activities. “This is also a way to foster a connection between biodiversity, the local community and visitors,” he said.
The official signing ceremony took place under the auspices of Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism. The goal is to promote sustainable development, protect ecosystems, promote tourism and environmental education, increase revenues, diversify sources of income, and ensure the sustainability of natural resources for future generations.
Dr Al Amri explained that these projects include the establishment of eco-tourism resorts, a star park, eco-lodges, eco-tourism camps, visitor centres, interactive exhibitions, restaurants and cafes, viewing trails, safaris, adventure tourism in nature reserves, and an open sea turtle pond and lake. “This investment in eco-tourism aims to protect and preserve the natural heritage in nature reserves and ensure its sustainability for future generations.”
The investment activities and packages in nature reserves were selected according to specific controls, standards and general conditions consistent with their management, operation and development plans. These include: the ability to prepare, implement and manage tourism and environmental activities or projects; attaching the required plans, documents, designs and explanatory maps; and following best practices.
The projects will be implemented in Jabal Samhan Reserve and Hayur site in the Wilayat of Mirbat, Dhofar Governorate, the Ras Al Shajar Nature Reserve in the Wilayat of Qurayat, Muscat Governorate, the Wetlands Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate, the Natural Turtle Reserve in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, and the Arabian Oryx Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate.
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