Muscat – The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has issued an advisory prohibiting the establishment of any economic, tourism or other development projects in Bandar al Khairan without prior approval from the ministry and full compliance with approved environmental standards.

The ministry said Bandar al Khairan was designated an environmental tourism zone under Royal Decree No 45/2007, placing it under a special regulatory framework aimed at safeguarding its natural character.

According to the advisory, all activities within the designated zone are subject to regulation by MHT to ensure the protection of marine and coastal ecosystems and the conservation of biodiversity, while supporting sustainable and responsible eco-tourism.

The decision also places Bandar Al Khairan under the direct management and administration of the ministry, which will oversee facilities and development proposals to ensure adherence to environmental requirements and long-term conservation objectives.