Agreements signed for investment in 7 nature reserves
Muscat: Agreements for investments in seven nature reserves were launched in Muscat on Monday
Agreements were signed for projects that include eco-resorts, lodges and camps, visitor centers, viewing trails, adventure tourism, restaurants, a sea turtle aquarium, and an interactive exhibition.
The agreements worth RO44 million were signed with the Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) and other companies to develop to promote sustainable development, protect ecosystems, promote awareness on education, increase revenues, diversify sources of income, and ensure the sustainability of natural resources.
Omran is investing in four of the seven reserves.
The Environment Authority signed four contracts with the Oman Tourism Development Company, Omran Group, to develop, operate and manage four nature reserves, including (Ras Al Shajar Nature Reserve, Turtle Nature Reserve, and Al Maha Nature Reserve) and signed two other agreements with the same company to develop and operate the Lajshlion site in the Jabal Samhan Reserve and the Hayur site in the Wilayat of Mirbat.
The Authority also signed two environmental investment contracts for two sites in the Jabal Shams Starlight Reserve to establish an eco-tourism resort with Madar Resorts Company and a Star Garden project with the Omani Society for Astronomy and Space.
It also signed another contract with Al Majal Integrated Establishment to develop the Khor Al Mughsail Reserve in Salalah, Dhofar Governorate.
This came during an official ceremony held today under the patronage of Salem bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, at the Mandarin Muscat Hotel.
In his speech, Dr Abdullah bin Ali Al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority, explained that these projects include the establishment of eco-tourism resorts, a star park, eco-lodges, eco-tourism camps, visitor centers, interactive exhibitions, restaurants and cafes, viewing trails, safaris, adventure tourism in nature reserves, and an open sea turtle pond and lake.
Dr Amri said, 'This investment in ecotourism aims to protect and preserve the natural heritage in nature reserves and ensure its sustainability for future generations.'
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