Muscat – Environment Authority (EA) conducted its first coral reef cleanup campaign of 2025 recently, clearing 140kg of abandoned fishing nets and iron debris from the Dimaniyat Islands, a protected marine reserve off the coast of Barka.

The campaign in South Batinah began with an underwater cleanup at Lumiyh Island, one of several islands in the Dimaniyat archipelago. Specialised divers removed entangled ghost nets and rusted metal fragments from the reef, which marine experts say pose serious threats to coral ecosystems and marine species.

‘This campaign reflects our commitment to safeguarding Oman’s marine biodiversity and underscores the urgent need to address pollution threats in ecologically sensitive areas,’ EA stated.

The Dimaniyat Islands, part of nature reserve named after it, are Oman’s first marine sanctuary and are listed on Unesco’s tentative list of World Heritage sites. The area attracts local and international visitors for diving, snorkelling and wildlife observation, and is home to coral reefs, nesting sea turtles and migratory birds.

Marine scientists warn that ghost nets can persist for many years in the ocean, trapping fish and turtles while damaging coral structures. Iron debris, once corroded, release harmful substances that degrade the marine environment.

EA stated that this operation was part of a broader effort to promote environmental awareness and sustainable marine tourism. The authority plans several cleanup dives this year in cooperation with local diving teams, volunteers and environmental organisations.

“This is just the beginning,” an EA official said. “Through collaborative efforts and continued monitoring, we aim to restore the health of our reefs.”