Muscat – Environment Authority (EA) has invited bids for development of Khor al Qurm al Kabeer Reserve and Khor Taqah Reserve in Dhofar to attract investments and stimulate tourism in the governorate.

An EA official said, “As part of our efforts to support the national economy and benefit from the natural reserves in the country, the authority has floated a tender for management and development of the Khor al Qurm al Kabeer Reserve and Khor Taqah Reserve.”

Khor al Qurm can be accessed via the road connecting Salalah to Raysut. It has a unique collection of diverse flora.

Khor Taqah Reserve is a suitable environment for many living organisms. It includes diverse flora – freshwater and brackish water plants, plants of the sickle family and reed plants. It also has Ghaf and ornamental trees, besides more than 200 species of birds and about 20 species of fish in the khor.

Interested companies must submit a report on how they propose to develop the two reserves and an action plan for the management of the sites. Investors must adhere to the principles of sustainable tourism development, preserve natural and cultural heritage, and refrain from engaging in any activity that adversely affects the environmental and cultural values of the two sites.

“Oman has 26 nature reserves, through which the authority aims to preserve the sultanate’s biological diversity and promote it in the world of ecotourism,” the EA official said.

Nature reserves in Oman are a major tourist attraction, offering scenic nature, camping and diving facilities to enjoy coral reefs and other underwater treasures.

The last date for submission of bids is May 18.