MUSCAT — The decision outlines rules for all activities within the reserve, specifying which require prior permits, fees, exemptions, and administrative fines for violators. Key activities requiring permits include visiting or diving in the reserve, photography for films or promotion, scientific studies and research, fishing, and mooring vessels (except in emergencies).

Fishing is limited to island residents, with net use strictly prohibited. Activities such as well drilling, construction, investment projects, and fish farming require special approval from the authority.
Certain groups are exempt from permit requirements, including military and security agencies on duty, official employees and researchers, students on educational trips, residents of the reserve and their relatives, and official delegations.

The decision also imposes strict prohibitions, including fishing by non-residents, polluting water, using weapons or poisons, introducing invasive species, tampering with facilities or antiquities, and discarding fishing equipment.

Fees for reserve entry and diving vary: Omanis pay RO 1 for entry and RO 3 for diving, while non-Omanis pay RO 3 for entry and RO 6 for diving; children under 18 are charged 100 Baisa.

Administrative fines are applied to violations, including RO 50 for entry without a permit, RO 100–150 for illegal fishing, RO 50 for water pollution, RO 300 for boat mooring without a permit, and up to RO 250 for unapproved projects.

The Environment Authority stressed that these regulations aim to strengthen conservation efforts, safeguard wildlife, and manage sustainable human activities in one of Oman’s most ecologically important marine reserves.