Diving in Muscat

The al Dimaniyat Islands Nature Reserve is a nationally, regionally, and internationally important conservation area, in which thousands of marine birds nest in summer, creating a wonderful panorama.

Population of following species, which are of special interest nationally and regionally, occurs in the reserve:

Al Dimaniyat Islands support a multitude species of coral reefs in the area, which grow densely because of the abundant and un-polluted substratum of the shallow seas. Coral shoals that grow in these shallow seas protect the island beaches. Coral grows mainly on exposed rocks, forming a multi-meter frame. In addition, there are many coral species that grow on either the rocky plains or the shattered coral reefs. They provide excellent habitat for the abundant reef fishes that provide the bulk of the harvest by fishermen.

At least one or Two species of turtle, the Green Turtle and Hawksbill are frequent visitors in the reserve. From 250-300 Hawksbill Turtles nest annually on the sandy beaches of some of the islands whilst the Green Turtles are feeding in the shallow seas. By providing shelter for these endangered species, the islands acquire international importance, Snorkelers see daily around 5 to 40 turtles on the reef