Muscat: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has issued a directive to all adventure tourism companies and operators, underscoring the need for strict adherence to approved safety guidelines as adventure tourism continues to grow across the Sultanate of Oman.

The ministry stressed that compliance with these regulations is mandatory and legally binding. Any operator found violating the approved guidelines may face legal action under laws governing tourism activities and environmental protection.

The directive aims to ensure that adventure tourism activities such as canyoning, rock climbing, hiking and other outdoor experiences are conducted in a safe and responsible manner, while safeguarding participants and protecting Oman’s natural environment.

In a recent notice, the ministry outlined key requirements for service providers. Operators must obtain prior written approval from the relevant authorities before conducting any adventure activity on private land or government property. They are also required to ensure that all safety and adventure equipment, including ropes, zip line installations, climbing gear and descent systems, are inspected and approved by the competent authorities before use.

The ministry further warned that altering, damaging or tampering with existing safety equipment at adventure sites is strictly prohibited, as such actions could endanger visitors and compromise overall safety.