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Natural resources

Oman Signs Nine Contracts for Environmental Investment Projects in Seven Nature Reserves

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Sultanate of Oman has made a significant step towards promoting sustainable development and protecting ecosystems by signing nine contracts for environmental investment projects in seven nature reserves in various governorates. The projects, worth over RO 44 million, aim to promote tourism, environmental education, and revenue generation while ensuring the sustainability of natural resources. The signing ceremony was held under the auspices of Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, and marks the opening of the first set of eco-tourism projects in partnership with other parties concerned.

Key Takeaways:

  • The nine contracts were signed in Muscat for the establishment of environmental investment projects in seven nature reserves, including Ras Al Shajar Nature Reserve, Turtle Reserve, Oryx Reserve, and Wetlands Reserve.
  • The projects aim to promote sustainable development, protect ecosystems, promote tourism and environmental education, raise revenue, diversify sources of income, and ensure the sustainability of natural resources.
  • The projects will create environment-friendly accommodation facilities featuring advanced specifications that meet all environmental requirements, and develop, operate, and manage nature reserves in an integrated manner.
  • The Environment Authority has engaged in a programme to secure the sustainability of biodiversity of various species and protect environmental systems and habitats.
  • The Environment Authority has simplified procedures by issuing environmental permits by 96 percent and introduced a 40 percent reduction in the cost of permits fees for various economic environmental activities.
  • The Authority has embarked on a clear path for the Omani economy to become emissions-free and sustainable and environment-friendly by the year 2050, in line with the National Net Zero Strategy.
  • The 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.
  • The Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) is committed to promoting 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.

Statistics:

  • The nine environmental investment projects are worth over RO 44 million.
  • The Environment Authority has issued environmental permits by 96 percent.
  • The Authority has introduced a 40 percent reduction in the cost of permits fees for various economic environmental activities.
  • The projects are expected to create environment-friendly accommodation facilities featuring advanced specifications that meet all environmental requirements.

Sources:

  • Gulf Times
  • Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group)
  • Environment Authority
  • Ministry of Heritage and Tourism
  • Oman News Agency

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