Muscat – The reserve is home to nine main islands and spans an area of 203 square kilometres, including both land and surrounding marine areas.

Engineer Salem bin Saeed Al Maskari, Director of the Environment Department in South Al Batinah Governorate, noted that the reserve continues to attract more eco-tourists each year. He explained that the Environment Authority has designated the islands of Jabal Al Kabir and Lajoon for overnight stays and camping for visitors, available from November to April.

He further announced that the Environment Authority plans to activate the reserve’s visitor centre in 2025, which will feature interactive screens designed to promote environmental awareness. This initiative aims to make the reserve a prime destination for students studying various environmental fields, including marine sciences.

It is pertinent to note that the Dimaniyat Islands now house the Underwater Military Equipment Museum, which opened in 2024. The museum aims to enhance biodiversity in the reserve and support ecotourism by offering a unique attraction for tourists and diving enthusiasts. It is the first of its kind in Oman and plays a role in rehabilitating and expanding coral reef areas that have been affected by both natural and human factors. The museum is also expected to foster the growth of a new ecosystem, attracting diverse marine life.

For visitors wishing to explore the Daymaniyat Islands, the Environment Authority has made the process easier by issuing electronic permits. Interested visitors can apply online through the Authority’s portal, providing their details and obtaining permits digitally.