AGP Executive Report

Wildlife Protection: Oman’s Environment Authority in Dhofar arrested three people for bringing wildlife meat into the country without environmental permits, warning the public to follow the Wildlife Trade Regulation Law. Conservation & Biodiversity: Oman released 60 rare Arabian sand gazelles into Wadi Marir as part of the “Al Reem 2” reintroduction programme, aiming to restore native species and strengthen biodiversity. Housing & Climate-Resilient Cities: UN-Habitat marked World Habitat Day in Muscat under “Adequate Housing for All,” presenting the 2026 Scroll of Honour Awards and stressing housing as a foundation for dignity and climate resilience. Heritage & Tourism: Oman and Italy signed an MoU to boost heritage and museum cooperation, including conservation, restoration, archaeology and expert exchange. Digital Safety & Identity: Sultan Qaboos University launched “Our Values, Our Digital Identity” to promote digital citizenship and protect privacy, warning against cyberbullying, extortion and harmful content. Energy Security Watch: OPEC+ kept November oil output targets unchanged despite Gulf disruptions tied to the Iran war, with Oman among the meeting participants. Maritime Incident Near Oman: A Panamanian-flagged vessel was attacked off Musandam; 10 crew were medically evacuated, with the incident occurring near the Strait of Hormuz.

Wildlife Conservation: Oman’s Environment Authority released 60 rare Arabian sand gazelles into the wild at Wadi Marir, advancing the second phase of “Al Reem 2” to restore native species and boost biodiversity. Wildfire Response: Firefighting continues in Jabal Shams after a wildfire reignited in the Al Hajar West Starlight Reserve; authorities say lightning is the likely cause and teams are monitoring for hotspots and environmental impacts. Marine Safety & Pollution Risk: A Panamanian-flagged commercial vessel was attacked off Oman’s Musandam, with a fire reported and 10 crew evacuated for medical care; officials did not name the attacker. Strait of Hormuz Pressure on Environment: Attacks on tankers around the Strait of Hormuz continue, with UK Maritime Trade Operations reporting multiple projectile strikes and an engine-room fire—no casualties or pollution reported in the latest alerts. Climate Tech Expansion: Oman’s 44.01 is scaling industrial carbon storage, expanding into European markets and working with a Holcim-owned cement plant in Fujairah. Coastal Heritage Development: An agreement signed to transform Port Sultan Qaboos waterfront into an integrated, heritage-respecting tourism destination in Muttrah.

Wildfire Watch in Jabal Shams: Oman’s Environment Authority says teams contained and extinguished a blaze at Al Hajar Al Gharbi Starlight Reserve, likely sparked by lightning, but a separate re-ignition prompted ongoing aerial firefighting and monitoring to protect local vegetation. Marine Safety: The National Emergency Management Committee reviewed efforts to manage a grounded ship off the Hallaniyat Islands, stressing measures to reduce risks to public safety and Oman’s marine environment. Strait of Hormuz Pressure: UKMTO reports multiple tanker attacks and a new engine-room fire after a projectile hit a vessel; crews were safe and no environmental impact was reported, while Iran-linked threats also led one tanker to turn back. World Habitat Day in Muscat: UN-Habitat marked World Habitat Day with the theme “Adequate Housing for All,” presenting the 2026 Scroll of Honour and highlighting housing as key to climate resilience and inclusive cities. Oman’s Green Finance Push: Oman Net Zero Centre says investor interest in the energy transition must translate into bankable projects with credible offtake, emissions data, and revenue models. Shura Council Environmental Law: The Shura Council’s Health and Social Affairs Committee met Environment Authority and ESO specialists to review the Environmental Law bill and propose amendments. Energy Infrastructure Leadership: OETC appointed Eng Zahir Mohammed al Busaidi as CEO to strengthen grid reliability and support Oman’s power transition.

Environmental Law in Oman: The Shura Council’s Health and Social Affairs Committee met Environment Authority and Environment Society of Oman specialists to review the Environmental Law bill and propose amendments aimed at better protecting biodiversity and natural resources. Urban Housing Push: Oman’s Urban October and World Habitat Day events kicked off in Muscat with agreements worth over RO 1 billion, including sustainable housing and urban projects under the theme “Adequate Housing for All.” Coastal Development Plans: Muscat Municipality is set to showcase four seafront investment opportunities at Urban October, including Qurum mangrove waterfront regeneration and new coastal promenades and parks. Climate & Cyclones Research: A new study using Cyclone Shaheen shows warmer seas can intensify cyclones and boost rainfall, while Oman’s terrain can reshape storm tracks and where rain falls. Net-Zero Finance Readiness: Oman Net Zero Centre says investor interest in the energy transition must turn into bankable projects with credible emissions data, offtake and revenue models. Marine & Wildlife Protection: Oman’s spiny lobster season begins with strict rules to protect stocks, and invasive weed control work continues in Salalah against parthenium. Shipping Risk Near Oman: UKMTO reported multiple Strait of Hormuz incidents, including a tanker engine-room fire after a projectile hit, with no casualties or environmental impact reported so far.

Aviation Security & Environment: A flydubai cockpit attack tied to an Omani co-pilot is still unfolding, with reports saying the plan may have targeted Israel’s Ben Gurion airport—raising fresh questions about cross-border screening and the wider safety risks for the region’s air links. Maritime Risk & Marine Life: A tanker in the Strait of Hormuz was struck by an unknown projectile; UK maritime authorities say the crew was safe and no environmental impact was reported, but the incident adds to ongoing concerns about pollution and ecosystem damage in Persian Gulf waters. Oman Circular Economy: Oman’s Ministry of Economy met the World Bank Group to strengthen technical cooperation on circular economy policy, reviewing a national project roadmap aimed at supporting Oman Vision 2040 and sustainability. Wildlife Protection in Oman: Oman’s Environment Authority and partners removed entangled fishing nets near Jabal Al Sawadi after reports of dead sea turtles, highlighting how abandoned gear continues to harm marine life. Low-Carbon Industry: Holcim UAE and 44.01 commissioned the UAE’s first live-condition carbon capture and mineralisation pilot at a cement plant in Fujairah, capturing about 4–4.5 tonnes of CO2 daily and locking it underground. Energy Storage Push: ROX Capital Group launched a Gulf energy storage platform targeting utility-scale projects in the UAE and Oman, including long-duration options. Tourism & Service Standards: Oman’s tourism sector is stepping up training for operators ahead of the 2026–27 winter season, focusing on the visitor experience after arrival. Conservation Policy: A whale sanctuary bid at the International Whaling Commission fell short by four votes, underscoring how hard it is to secure long-term protection for migratory species.

Marine Wildlife Protection: Oman’s Environment Authority and partners removed about 400kg of entangled fishing nets near Jabal Al Sawadi in Barka after reports of dead sea turtles, highlighting how lost gear harms turtles, fish and other marine life. Public Accountability for Nature: Two Ukrainian tourists were sentenced in Oman to one-month jail terms (suspended) and RO100 fines each for disturbing nesting sea turtles at Ras Al Hadd Turtle Reserve, after footage showed handling turtles and hatchlings. Regional Environmental Risk: A study warns Iran’s attacks in the Persian Gulf are compounding climate and pollution pressures, with oil spills and coastal damage threatening coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds and fisheries. Oman Sustainability & Innovation: A World Bank meeting with Oman’s Ministry of Economy focused on technical cooperation for the circular economy, including measuring progress toward Oman Vision 2040. Space for Environment: Oman Space Conference 2026 discussed using Earth observation and space data to improve government services, including agriculture and marine and environmental management.

Aviation Security in Focus: UAE says the Flydubai co-pilot, identified as Omani national Hamam al-Hammami, carried out a “terrorist act” with a crash axe and tried to seize control of the cockpit on the Dubai–Tel Aviv flight; Oman had reportedly barred him from flying over extremist concerns, while investigators in multiple countries probe whether he acted alone. Maritime Safety: UKMTO reports a crude oil tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile off Oman’s coast near the Strait of Hormuz; all crew were safe and no spill was reported, but ships are urged to stay vigilant. Water & Wildlife Protection: Oman’s Environment Authority took legal action after a viral incident where an influencer sat on a sea turtle at Ras Al Hadd, highlighting wildlife-protection rules. Sustainable Agriculture Research: Oman-backed research explores harvesting water from air using solar-powered greenhouse and hydroponic systems for salt-affected lands. Food & Investment Push: Oman secured RO 97.4m in food-related investment projects and has more opportunities lined up via Invest Oman. Local Industry Growth: Raysut Industrial City localised nine new projects worth over OMR 6.5m in H1 2026, supporting Omanisation and industrial expansion.

Wildlife Protection: A Ukrainian fitness influencer apologized after Oman’s Environment Authority said it took legal action over his viral video of sitting on a sea turtle in Ras Al Hadd, with footage still circulating online despite the post being deleted. Aviation Security & Regional Risk: The UAE says a FlyDubai co-pilot, identified as Omani Hamam al-Hammami, attempted a “terrorist act” using a crash axe in the cockpit during a Dubai–Tel Aviv flight; reports also say he had been barred from flying in Oman over extremism concerns, while authorities investigate motive and links. Maritime Safety: UKMTO reported a crude oil tanker struck by an unidentified projectile off Oman, with crew safe and no environmental damage reported; separate reports also cite attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. Oman Industry & Investment: OPAZ will showcase Oman’s pharmaceutical and medical device cluster plans at Milan Pharmaceuticals Exhibition 2026, aiming to attract investment and strengthen local drug security. Energy Storage Push: ROX Capital Group launched a Gulf Energy Storage Platform to develop battery and long-duration storage projects across the UAE and Oman, including regional assembly and manufacturing opportunities. Business Enablement: Oman updated fee payment on the Oman Business Platform for commercial registry and agency services, letting applicants pay a nominal fee first and settle the rest later. Local Economy: Raysut Industrial City localised nine projects worth over OMR6.5mn in H1 2026, supporting Omanisation and industrial expansion.

Maritime Security in the Gulf: UKMTO says a crude oil tanker was hit by an unknown projectile about four nautical miles east of Oman; all crew were safe and no environmental impact was reported, with authorities investigating. Hormuz Shipping Threats: A British maritime agency also reported two tanker attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, including a small fire and blackout on one vessel; again, no casualties or environmental damage were reported. Research Funding for Oman: The Research and Innovation Authority allocated OMR2.2 million for 467 research proposals under the 2026 cycle, spanning fields from environmental and biological resources to energy, health, and urban planning. Consumer Protection Push: Oman’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion stepped up field inspections across governorates to enforce standards, tackle counterfeit goods, and protect consumers and investors. Wildlife Protection Backlash: A viral incident in Oman involving tourists “riding” a sea turtle sparked outrage and legal action, highlighting strict rules at turtle nesting reserves. Aviation Incident Fallout: Reports say an Omani flydubai co-pilot accused in a cockpit attack had previously been barred from flying over extremist concerns, as investigations continue.

Wildlife Protection & Enforcement: A Ukrainian influencer viralized “riding” an adult sea turtle while it tried to lay eggs at Oman’s Ras al Hadd Turtle Reserve, sparking outrage and legal action as Oman’s Environment Authority said it is taking steps against those involved. Marine Science: New genetic work supports classifying Arabian Sea humpback whales as a distinct fourth subspecies, Megaptera novaeangliae indica, highlighting how unique Oman-area wildlife may need tailored conservation. Desertification & Land Restoration: The Council of Arab Ministers Responsible for the Environment backed Algeria’s Green Dam project, urging Arab-level review and wider adoption to fight desertification and land degradation. Regional Environment Recognition: Amman was named Arab Environmental Capital, with Oman’s Salalah receiving a certificate of appreciation for environmental efforts. Oman Environment & Tourism Context: Oman’s turtle reserve rules and visitor responsibilities are again in the spotlight after the turtle-handling backlash, while tourism coverage notes Oman’s appeal beyond regional conflict.

Maritime Safety in Focus: A tanker was struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz, triggering a fire; the crew was reported safe, but any environmental impact is still unclear. Oman’s Environment & Wildlife: Oman referred a Ukrainian influencer to prosecutors after viral footage showed him entering Ras Al Jinz at night without a permit and riding/mishandling an endangered sea turtle; officials said an apology doesn’t undo the wildlife violations. Marine Science: New genetic research led by WCS and Oman partners suggests Arabian Sea humpback whales are a distinct fourth subspecies, strengthening the case for targeted conservation. Green Hydrogen & Resilience: Oman’s Environment Authority joined Arab environment talks in Cairo, stressing rangeland protection as a resilience strategy against climate change, drought and land degradation. Aviation & Tech (Oman): MTCIT and CAA launched Oman’s Strategic Programme for Advanced Air Mobility demonstrations and live trials, with a Dec 2026 regulatory sandbox for future aviation and services. Digital Skills: Ericsson’s Digital Lab programme expanded Oman’s hands-on training for AI, robotics, coding and electronics, supporting Vision 2040 workforce goals.

Wildlife Protection: Oman’s Environment Authority says it has taken legal measures after a Ukrainian influencer video showed him sitting on a nesting sea turtle at Ras Al Jinz/Ras Al Hadd, sparking global backlash and renewed calls to follow reserve rules. Fisheries Management: Oman’s spiny lobster “sharkha” season opened today (until Nov. 30) with strict regulations aimed at protecting stocks; 2025 production hit about 645 tonnes worth roughly OMR 4.255m. Marine Conservation Research: New research reports Arabian Sea humpback whales off Oman haven’t grown in 20 years and may represent a distinct fourth subspecies, with threats including vessel strikes and fishing gear entanglement. Coastline Cleanup: Authorities in Salalah returned about 135 tonnes of treated, oil-polluted sand to Awqad Beach after a multi-month cleanup and lab testing. Energy & Climate Tech: Trinasolar says grid-scale storage for the region’s solar and green hydrogen buildout depends on reliable, bankable energy storage systems as utilities scale up. Governance & Skills: Oman’s Labour Ministry urges a shift toward a capability economy, focusing on continuous skills development rather than one-time education.

Wildlife Protection in Oman: A viral incident at Ras al Hadd has triggered outrage after a Ukrainian influencer couple filmed themselves riding and posing on a sea turtle while it was allegedly trying to lay eggs; Oman’s Environment Authority says the behaviour violated wildlife protection rules and that “legal action” was taken, while the influencer later apologized. Sea Turtle Nesting Records: Separate reporting highlights record sea-turtle nesting counts in Florida, Texas and Georgia, underscoring how sensitive nesting seasons are worldwide. Maritime Security & Hormuz: US and Iran messaging around the Strait of Hormuz continues, with reports of a crude oil tanker hit in the strait and renewed debate over shipping safety and regional stability. Oman’s Conservation Tourism Rules: Coverage also points visitors to turtle-reserve guidelines—what to do, what not to do, and why getting too close can harm nesting. Agriculture & Biodiversity: Oman registered the “Razat” banana variety with UPOV after technical tests, adding a protected local crop to the country’s agricultural innovation pipeline.

Sea Turtle Protection in Ras Al Hadd: Oman’s Environment Authority took legal action after a viral video showed a Ukrainian influencer sitting on a protected sea turtle during nesting at Ras Al Hadd, with authorities reiterating strict rules: don’t touch, approach or disturb nesting turtles. Wildlife Enforcement: The EA also moved against another tourist over social media posts tied to disturbing sea turtles at Ras Al Hadd, warning it will not tolerate harm to wildlife or habitats. Marine Monitoring Upgrade: Ecocoast and Xylem partnered to integrate Xylem sensing into Ecocoast’s GCC buoy platforms, enabling real-time water-quality and ocean monitoring for early spill detection across Oman and the region. Green Hydrogen Push: Oman plans green hydrogen exports by 2030 and is seeking deeper renewable-energy cooperation with India, including SAF and green fuels. Innovation Boost: Oman advanced 8 places in the Global Innovation Index 2026 innovation inputs pillar, reaching 47th globally. Oil Spill Cleanup in Salalah: 135 tonnes of treated sand were returned to Auqad Beach after clearing oil derivatives as part of environmental rehabilitation. Arctic Shipping Warning: A report highlights rising risks on Russia’s Northern Sea Route as more shadow-fleet vessels transit in harsher conditions.

Sea Turtle Protection: Oman’s Environment Authority has launched legal action after a viral incident in Ras Al Hadd where a Ukrainian influencer and partner were filmed sitting on a nesting sea turtle and handling hatchlings, sparking international backlash and renewed calls for visitors to keep distance during nesting season. Marine Science: New genetic research confirms Arabian Sea humpback whales are a distinct subspecies, highlighting limited gene flow and the population’s vulnerability to entanglement, noise, pollution and disease. Oil Spill Cleanup: In Salalah, 135 tonnes of treated sand were returned to Auqad Beach after clearance of oil derivatives as part of natural rehabilitation following oil pollution. Green Hydrogen Push: Oman plans to export green hydrogen by 2030 and is seeking deeper renewable-energy cooperation with India, including policy work for cleaner aviation fuels. Innovation Ranking: Oman advanced 8 places to 47th in the Global Innovation Index 2026 innovation inputs pillar, with gains across key policy and investment indicators. Green Industry: Work is progressing on Oman’s high-purity graphite refinery project in Al Buraimi, aimed at battery and energy-storage supply chains. Smart Tourism: A GCC tourism report urges data sharing and AI-driven services to support smarter, more personalized tourism across the region. Diplomacy & Shipping Risk: Indirect US-Iran talks continue via Qatar as tensions keep Strait of Hormuz shipping under pressure, with reports of incidents near the route.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: A merchant vessel was hit and caught fire while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, with crew condition and cargo details still unclear, as Iran and the US trade claims about attacks and warship positioning. Marine Life & Wildlife Protection: A Ukrainian couple in Oman faced backlash after a video appeared to show them sitting on a sea turtle; conservation groups said wild turtles shouldn’t be touched or used as photo props, and the tourist later apologised. Oman Research & Heritage: Omani researchers won first place at the Sharjah International Award for Cultural Heritage for work on the Sidr tree, linking scientific and traditional knowledge to preserve and expand cultivation. GCC Marine Monitoring Upgrade: Ecocoast partnered with Xylem to integrate real-time sensing into marine monitoring buoys across the GCC, including Oman, to speed up detection of oil spills and other emergencies. Climate Finance Push: Oman’s finance minister urged scaling up climate finance for resilient growth, stressing policy foundations, risk-sharing and more private-sector mobilisation. Green Hydrogen Outlook: Oman’s ambassador to India said Oman aims to export green hydrogen by 2030 and is seeking collaboration with India. Arab Agriculture Day: Oman highlighted sustainable rangeland management, warning that climate change, water scarcity and land degradation demand better monitoring and restoration. New Soil Science for Farming: Researchers reported a simpler, cheaper method to measure biologically active phosphorus in soil, helping explain how microbes support plant nutrition. Conservation Science: A genetic study supports recognising Arabian Sea humpback whales as a distinct subspecies, backed by Oman’s Environment Authority and partners.