Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve attracts eco-tourists
Published: 02:12 PM,Dec 02,2024 | EDITED : 06:12 PM,Dec 02,2024
2852268
SUR, DEC 2
Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve on Oman’s east coast has emerged as a premier eco-tourism destination, attracting over 24,000 visitors as of October-end 2024. This figure underscores its global reputation as a sanctuary for endangered sea turtles and a hub for sustainable tourism.
The reserve recorded peak visitation in January and August, coinciding with holiday seasons and optimal turtle nesting periods. While foreign tourists constituted the majority, a substantial number of Omani visitors reflected the growing local appreciation for preserving the nation’s natural heritage.
In 2023, the reserve welcomed 12,192 visitors, with 5,764 Omanis showcasing strong domestic interest. However, international tourists made up the bulk of visitors, with 39,511 individuals traveling from abroad to witness the extraordinary sight of turtles nesting and hatching. Additional demographic highlights included 788 visitors from GCC countries, 1,482 from other Arab nations, and 1,791 students participating in educational tours.
The upward trend has continued into 2024, with 23,137 visitors recorded by October. Foreign tourists accounted for 57.3 per cent of total arrivals, Omanis comprised 33.2 per cent, and notable contributions came from GCC nations (1,748 visitors), other Arab countries (790), and student groups (658).
Visitor numbers mirror Oman’s seasonal and climatic conditions. In 2023, November led with 8,280 visitors, followed by October (6,951) and February (6,179), as cooler weather and tourism-friendly conditions prevailed. Similarly, in 2024, January (4,112) and August (3,731) were the most popular months, correlating with vacation periods and heightened turtle nesting activity. Conversely, summer months like May and June recorded lower attendance due to high temperatures.
Nasser bin Mohammed al-Ghilani, Director of Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, emphasized the reserve’s commitment to sustainability, highlighting the delicate balance between tourism and conservation. “Our foremost responsibility is to safeguard the nesting habitats of endangered turtles. Achieving this requires strict management practices and eco-friendly tourism initiatives,” he stated.
To minimize environmental impact, the reserve enforces restricted access to sensitive nesting areas and offers guided tours led by trained experts. Education is also a cornerstone of its mission, with programs designed to inspire awareness and environmental stewardship among visitors, particularly younger generations.
Ras Al Jinz plays a critical role in supporting Oman’s Vision 2040, which prioritizes sustainability and environmental preservation as pillars of national development. “By fostering eco-tourism, the reserve not only aids conservation efforts but also contributes to Oman’s economic diversification goals,” Al-Ghilani noted.
The reserve exemplifies how natural heritage can drive tourism while adhering to sustainable practices. It demonstrates that ecological preservation and visitor engagement can coexist, creating a lasting impact on both the environment and the economy.
Looking ahead, the reserve aims to expand its educational programmes, enhance eco-friendly facilities, and elevate the visitor experience. “Our mission extends beyond drawing tourists; we strive to instill a deeper understanding of the vital connection between tourism and conservation,” Al-Ghilani explained.
With its growing international recognition and steadfast commitment to sustainability, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve is set to remain a cornerstone of Oman’s eco-tourism strategy. It stands as a shining example of how a nation can balance environmental protection with economic development, leaving a legacy of conservation for future generations.
Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve on Oman’s east coast has emerged as a premier eco-tourism destination, attracting over 24,000 visitors as of October-end 2024. This figure underscores its global reputation as a sanctuary for endangered sea turtles and a hub for sustainable tourism.
The reserve recorded peak visitation in January and August, coinciding with holiday seasons and optimal turtle nesting periods. While foreign tourists constituted the majority, a substantial number of Omani visitors reflected the growing local appreciation for preserving the nation’s natural heritage.
In 2023, the reserve welcomed 12,192 visitors, with 5,764 Omanis showcasing strong domestic interest. However, international tourists made up the bulk of visitors, with 39,511 individuals traveling from abroad to witness the extraordinary sight of turtles nesting and hatching. Additional demographic highlights included 788 visitors from GCC countries, 1,482 from other Arab nations, and 1,791 students participating in educational tours.
The upward trend has continued into 2024, with 23,137 visitors recorded by October. Foreign tourists accounted for 57.3 per cent of total arrivals, Omanis comprised 33.2 per cent, and notable contributions came from GCC nations (1,748 visitors), other Arab countries (790), and student groups (658).
Visitor numbers mirror Oman’s seasonal and climatic conditions. In 2023, November led with 8,280 visitors, followed by October (6,951) and February (6,179), as cooler weather and tourism-friendly conditions prevailed. Similarly, in 2024, January (4,112) and August (3,731) were the most popular months, correlating with vacation periods and heightened turtle nesting activity. Conversely, summer months like May and June recorded lower attendance due to high temperatures.
Nasser bin Mohammed al-Ghilani, Director of Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, emphasized the reserve’s commitment to sustainability, highlighting the delicate balance between tourism and conservation. “Our foremost responsibility is to safeguard the nesting habitats of endangered turtles. Achieving this requires strict management practices and eco-friendly tourism initiatives,” he stated.
To minimize environmental impact, the reserve enforces restricted access to sensitive nesting areas and offers guided tours led by trained experts. Education is also a cornerstone of its mission, with programs designed to inspire awareness and environmental stewardship among visitors, particularly younger generations.
Ras Al Jinz plays a critical role in supporting Oman’s Vision 2040, which prioritizes sustainability and environmental preservation as pillars of national development. “By fostering eco-tourism, the reserve not only aids conservation efforts but also contributes to Oman’s economic diversification goals,” Al-Ghilani noted.
The reserve exemplifies how natural heritage can drive tourism while adhering to sustainable practices. It demonstrates that ecological preservation and visitor engagement can coexist, creating a lasting impact on both the environment and the economy.
Looking ahead, the reserve aims to expand its educational programmes, enhance eco-friendly facilities, and elevate the visitor experience. “Our mission extends beyond drawing tourists; we strive to instill a deeper understanding of the vital connection between tourism and conservation,” Al-Ghilani explained.
With its growing international recognition and steadfast commitment to sustainability, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve is set to remain a cornerstone of Oman’s eco-tourism strategy. It stands as a shining example of how a nation can balance environmental protection with economic development, leaving a legacy of conservation for future generations.