Oman introduces new diving regulations

Oman has introduced strict diving regulations under which no one can indulge in diving activities without acquiring prior permits, according to Thurya Bint Said Al Sariri, Director of Marine Conservation Department at the Ministry of Environment and Climate.

“A ministerial decree has been issued to regularise diving activities in the marine environment outside of marine protected areas in Oman,” Al Sariri told Gulf News yesterday.

“The marine environment encompasses Oman’s beaches, sea ports and wharfs, territorial waters and adjacent locations, the Exclusive Economic Zone, its seabed, all its components, living and non-living resources, and all constructions and projects thereupon, be those stationary or mobile,” pointed out the senior marine department official.

“Diving in the marine environment, outside the Parameters of Marine Protected Areas is strictly prohibited without obtaining a permit from the Ministry,” she stressed.

According to her diving is already prohibited in locations that have security considerations.

For diving activities, diving clubs/companies are required to have a highly qualified, experienced and physically fit diving crew to accompany divers during the activities. Both the diving instructor and the crew need to have experience in first aid and rescue operations.

The annual permit fee for diving clubs/companies is fixed at 200 Omani Riyals, while individuals are will be charged 25 riyals annually.

“For tourist and visitors from neighbouring countries, day-long permits would be issued for three riyals,” Al Sariri revealed, adding that diving clubs are authorised to issue such daylong permits to tourists as well as other visitors.

These fees, however, will not be applicable to the government authorities or agencies and individuals conducting diving activities for scientific or research purposes, as well as diving crews in clubs/companies registered with the ministry while conducting diving activities on behalf of such authorities/agencies.

She also said that the fine could range from 200 to 2000 riyals for those indulging in diving activities without acquiring prior permits for such activities. And, those who fail to renew their existing permits will get one-month grace period and then they would be fined. “For non-renewal of permits individuals would be charged 10 riyals and clubs/companies 50 riyals,” she added.

She also urged divers to avoid diving in locations used by professional fishermen.

“Spear-guns are strictly prohibited during diving activities," Al Sariri reiterated.

The diving clubs/companies in Oman have been asked to co-ordinate with the Coast Guard and the Ministry for night dives, in order to identify diving locations and dates.