Oman is looking to strengthen marine tourism as part of its wider tourism and economic diversification efforts, drawing on its coastline, maritime heritage and protected marine environments.
From the fjords of Musandam and the waters around Muscat to the Daymaniyat Islands and the seasonal seas of Dhofar, Oman offers a range of marine experiences, including diving, sailing, dolphin watching, wildlife observation, fishing and coastal exploration.
Marine tourism also has the potential to support a wider tourism value chain. Boat operators, guides, marinas, hotels, restaurants, equipment providers, booking platforms, safety services and conservation initiatives can all contribute to the sector, creating opportunities for businesses and coastal communities.
The Daymaniyat Islands provide an example of how marine tourism can be developed alongside conservation. The islands are known for clear waters, coral reefs, marine life and turtle habitats. Controlled access, permits, visitor limits and trained operators can help manage tourism activity while protecting the environment.
Musandam offers a different marine experience, with its cliffs, khors, traditional dhows, dolphins and diving sites. In Dhofar, reefs, fishing communities, bays and birdlife provide opportunities to complement Salalah’s established tourism appeal, particularly during the khareef season.
Marine tourism can cater to different visitor segments, from families and leisure travellers to divers, photographers, sailing enthusiasts and visitors interested in marine ecosystems and local culture.
Sustainability will remain central to the sector’s development. Marine tourism requires effective management of coral reefs, turtle nesting areas and other sensitive habitats. Responsible boating, waste management, visitor controls and clear environmental guidelines can help reduce the impact of tourism activity.
Training will also be important as the sector develops. Boat captains, marine guides, dive professionals, rescue teams and marine interpreters can help improve both visitor safety and the quality of experiences. Environmental briefings and responsible tourism practices can become standard components of marine activities.
Oman’s maritime heritage provides an additional foundation for the sector. The country’s sailors historically connected the Arabian Peninsula with East Africa, India and other parts of the Indian Ocean. Marine tourism can build on this history while contributing to a modern blue economy.
The private sector can support this development through marina-based hospitality, eco-certified marine operators, diving centres, seafood experiences, sailing schools, coastal festivals and marine photography tours. Universities and research institutions can also contribute through programmes focused on reefs, turtles, marine biodiversity and marine debris.
Government policy will play an important role in establishing clear licensing, safety and environmental standards. Capacity management, data collection and effective protected-area management can help ensure that tourism growth remains aligned with conservation objectives. Coastal communities can also play a greater role as operators, business owners and partners in marine tourism development.
Growing interest in nature-based travel provides an opportunity for Oman to position its coastline around experiences that emphasise natural environments, local knowledge and maritime heritage rather than high-volume tourism.
This approach also aligns with the broader principles of ESG. Environmental measures can support the protection of reefs, turtles and marine ecosystems; social measures can create income and participation opportunities for coastal communities; and governance can provide clear standards for safety, permits, capacity and accountability.
With a combination of marine assets, maritime heritage, conservation areas and opportunities for private-sector participation, marine tourism can become an important part of Oman’s tourism strategy. A focus on quality, responsible access and long-term environmental management can allow the sector to grow while protecting the coastal resources on which it depends.
