Al Sifa as an ecotourism destination gaining popularity
MUSCAT, APRIL 6
A boat ride through the mangroves at Al Sifa is gaining momentum and popularity.
Al Sifa Beach has different features... one part with flat rocks, another is a white sand beach, and the other with the mangroves.
This is what the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organisation says about mangroves: 'As we navigate the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030), mangroves emerge as emblematic of nature-based solutions to global challenges.'According to FAO, restoring mangrove habitats aligns with the decade's goals of halting biodiversity loss, combating desertification, and addressing climate change impacts.
'Gulf countries are at the forefront of these efforts, demonstrating a strong commitment to protecting and restoring mangrove habitats. By integrating traditional knowledge and leveraging advanced technologies, these countries are setting an example for the world,' FAO stated.
The natural harbour has the fishermen park their boats, and this is also where one can explore this part of Oman's coast with the mangroves on a boat.
The cost of the rides is reasonable, and the area is picturesque.
The Green. Earth explains that mangroves are resilient trees and act as potent carbon sinks, utilising photosynthesis, sediment trapping, slow decomposition, and peat formation to store atmospheric CO2.
'Over the past two years, Oman's efforts have seen the planting of over 3.5 million mangrove seeds, with a record-breaking 2 million trees this year. Coastal areas from Dhofar to Muscat and the Daymaniyat Islands are now reaping the benefits of this green resurgence,' the organisation writes in its report on Oman.
It pointed out that this groundbreaking initiative marks a pivotal step towards Oman's zero-emissions aspirations, estimating significant environmental and economic gains through restoring and preserving the invaluable mangrove ecosystems.
Al Sifa, as a tourist destination, is gaining its prominence, as can be seen with the available amenities. There is a store for renting tents and tenting equipment. There are established facilities, from rooms to caravans. Most importantly, the public restrooms are available right on the roadside.
It is almost a 50-minute drive from Wadi Kabir, but there are options from Muttrah and Al Hamriyah as well.
The scenic route is much admired, and by the time the Wadi Al Rahba and Al Maha petrol station is crossed, one can enjoy the beauty of Al Sifa.
One has to be careful about donkeys and goats on the roadside. But once there, time and mind can be on reset mode, making it an ideal location for ecotourism.
The boat ride operators said Eid holidays saw a busy season. But on the beach sides that are popular for camping, picnickers had left the trash behind. The visitors have to bear in mind each season is important. Currently, the shrubs on the beach with wading rocks are in full bloom, attracting a swarm of white butterflies.
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