Oman Showcases Underwater Military Museum To Boost Eco-Tourism
The Sultanate of Oman has unveiled a new underwater 'military museum' designed to attract scuba divers from across the globe, set to welcome tourists in July of this year. This innovative attraction comprises seven MAN Atlas trucks and a Skyvan aircraft, strategically submerged in the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve, located in the governorate of South Batinah, roughly 50km northwest of Muscat, Oman's capital. The museum aims to offer a distinctive experience compared to other Middle-Eastern underwater projects in Jordan and Egypt by focusing on a different set of submerged objects.
Oman is renowned for its vast 3000km coastline, which remains largely pristine and is a haven for a plethora of marine life. The region's coral reefs are teeming with biodiversity, housing everything from the usual coral reef inhabitants seen in the Red Sea to larger pelagic species such as whale sharks. The Environmental Agency's decision to place the museum near Daymaniyat Island leverages the area's ecological significance, aiming to promote coral growth around the submerged vehicles. This initiative is expected not only to enhance the diving experience but also to support local artisanal fishermen by creating an artificial reef that alleviates pressure on natural ones.
Hamad Al-Ruzaiqi, the head of the Coastal Areas Department at the Environment Authority, highlighted the project's dual purpose of boosting eco-tourism while adding a unique spot to Oman's tourism map. "This initiative seeks to bolster eco-tourism by establishing a unique tourist attraction catered to diving enthusiasts, thereby enhancing Oman's tourism sector," Al-Ruzaiqi stated. He also expressed optimism about the positive environmental impact of the museum, foreseeing the flourishing of coral reefs within the vicinity in the upcoming six months.
The Omani government is keen to capitalize on the recent surge in the country's tourism, hoping that the underwater museum will become a major attraction. Unlike Jordan and Egypt, which have previously sunk tanks and armoured vehicles to create similar attractions, Oman's museum offers a different set of exhibits, aiming to stand out in the regional competition for attracting diving enthusiasts. With the museum's opening scheduled for July, Oman is set to offer a unique blend of military history and marine conservation, promising an enriching experience for divers and eco-tourists alike.
Sign in with Google