MUSCAT : A protected natural reserve, the Daymaniyat Islands in Oman are known for their breathtaking beaches and vast biodiversity. Daymaniyat is an archipelago of 9 islands off the coast in the state of Seeb, and the boundaries of the reserve include rock and shallow waters that span a total of 302 sq. km. 

Consisting of limestone rocks and coral reefs, the islands have slopes descending towards the sea, extending into the water with a depth ranging from 20 to 25m. Towards the south, there are shallow sand cliffs surrounded by a prominent coral range, including varieties such as cauliflower coral, table coral, loose tree coral, spring flower coral, hedgehog coral, and cerebral coral. The natural reserve has 15 species of wild plants, making it a beautiful settlement for birds. The surrounding waters are home to two different forms of seaweed, that provide nourishment to turtles and a wide variety of sea mammals. 

The islands host numerous exotic birds during the migratory season and see a huge turnout of thousands of birds such as white herons, gray herons, and various species of ducks. The seas are home to an impressive variety of aquatic life as well, including black dolphins, sharks, humpback whales, jellyfish, crabs, and sea horses.

Understandably, the islands have seen rapidly increasing tourism, approximating around 39,000 visitors annually. According to Royal Decree No. 23/96, the islands of Daymaniyat have been declared a nature reserve, ensuring the protection of the flora and fauna along with their habitats, to allow them to reproduce and ensure the regeneration of their natural resources.

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