AGP Executive Report

Strait of Hormuz Security: A cargo vessel was hit by an unknown projectile off Oman, damaging its bridge but causing no casualties or environmental impact, according to UKMTO—an incident that follows fresh Iranian warnings that only Tehran-authorised routes are safe. Shipping Disruption & Oil Markets: As traffic edges back after the US-Iran MoU, reports say some tankers are turning around after IRGC broadcasts, while oil prices slip toward pre-war levels. Toll Debate: Iran is pushing plans to charge for “security, safety and environmental services” in Hormuz, while US officials insist passage should remain toll-free—keeping pressure on maritime navigation and regional stability. Oman’s Green Finance: Oman Electricity Transmission Company (Nama Group) won Sukuk Deal of the Year for a $750m five-year green sukuk, with proceeds aimed at renewable integration and grid upgrades. Renewables Pipeline: Nama PWP launched RFQs for 1.5GW of solar IPPs (Adam and Sinaw), including battery storage to support Oman’s energy transition. Maritime Day in Oman: Oman marked World Maritime Day, highlighting seafarers’ role in keeping supply chains moving despite risks.

Strait of Hormuz Security & Shipping: The UN’s maritime agency says it aims to evacuate most of the roughly 11,000 seafarers stranded around the Strait of Hormuz within weeks, using a phased, day-by-day plan for about 600 vessels, as insurers and shipping groups warn that mine clearance, legal hurdles and navigation risks still make “normal” traffic slow to return. Oman’s Role in Navigation Talks: Oman is directly in the mix as Gulf leaders push for toll-free freedom of navigation while Iran seeks fees tied to environmental, navigation and security services—an approach echoed in Oman-Qatar diplomacy focused on keeping the corridor open under international law. Aviation Risk Warning: EASA urged airlines to avoid Iran, Iraq and Lebanon airspace for now, and to fly over Oman and nearby Gulf states with heightened caution, citing the chance of renewed escalation around Hormuz. Environment & Wildlife: Scientists report sperm whales in the Mediterranean are adapting “dialects,” and a rare violet blanket octopus has been documented in Omani waters, adding to the region’s biodiversity record. Oman Policy & Tech: Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority launched an Advanced Air Mobility programme to regulate drones and electric aircraft, while NCSI rolled out new data initiatives to strengthen Oman’s digital transformation. Energy & Markets: Oil prices slid as tanker activity improved and Hormuz supply worries eased, even as the broader peace deal remains fragile.

Strait of Hormuz diplomacy: Qatar’s PM met Oman in Muscat to set talks on Iran–Iraq–Gulf navigation and maritime services for Hormuz, with Gulf states pushing for no transit fees while Iran may propose environmental, navigation and security charges; Oman also announced temporary routes to keep shipping moving. Aviation safety: The EU aviation regulator (EASA) extended its warning for airlines to avoid Iran, Iraq and Lebanon airspace until July 1, urging extra caution over Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Qatar, Oman and others, citing possible ceasefire violations near Hormuz. Oman energy transition: Nama PWP launched an RFQ for two utility-scale solar PV projects (Adam and Sinaw) totaling RO 400m, aiming to boost renewables and cut carbon. Agriculture & food security: Oman’s agriculture ministry expanded Arabica coffee cultivation in Dhofar’s mountains, backing a high-value crop for farmers. Biodiversity in Oman: A “Violet Blanket Octopus” was documented in Omani waters, adding to knowledge of rare regional marine life. Tourism in Khareef: Salalah’s Khareef guide highlights waterfalls, wadis and viewpoints as light rains signal the monsoon’s arrival.

Strait of Hormuz Evacuation: The UN’s IMO has started contacting ships to evacuate more than 11,000 stranded seafarers from the Strait of Hormuz, in phased operations with Iran, Oman, other coastal states, the US and the maritime industry, after safety guarantees were verified; Oman says the Traffic Separation Scheme is not safe right now and evacuation will use temporary north/south routes with individual transit days. Tolls and Navigation Talks: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated that no country can charge tolls on the international waterway, while Iran and Oman have begun formal talks on “administration of navigation” and maritime services, including costs, raising fresh questions about future fees. Oman E-Waste Handling: Sohar International signed an agreement with Evergreen Gulf Recycling Hub Services to collect, recycle and securely dispose of electronic and battery waste across its operations, including secure destruction of data-bearing devices where needed. Solar Push in Oman: Nama PWP launched an RFQ for two utility-scale solar PV projects (Adam and Sinaw) totaling RO 400 million, aiming to expand renewables and support issuance of environmental attributes like I-RECs. Marine Life Research: A new study highlights Oman’s critically endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales—over 80 individuals—showing they largely stay home, with satellite tagging revealing new movement surprises.

Strait of Hormuz Talks: Iran and Oman opened formal talks in Muscat on the future administration of navigation, including “services” and “costs” tied to maritime passage—raising fresh questions after Trump said there would be no tolls. UN Maritime Response: The UN’s IMO says an evacuation plan is underway for hundreds of ships and about 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Gulf, with phased routing and temporary lanes as collision risks remain high. Desertification Drive: Oman’s Environment Authority unveiled the National Strategy to Combat Desertification 2040, targeting restoration of over 100 sq km of degraded land, more tree cover, and nationwide afforestation to boost resilience. Cybersecurity Law: Oman issued a Cybercrime Law (Royal Decree 61/2026) expanding rules for AI-enabled digital offences and strengthening protection of personal data and digital evidence. Aviation & Emissions: Oman is pushing Advanced Air Mobility, including a 100kg drone cargo trial for medical supplies, alongside an AAM forum to shape regulations and a roadmap. Food Security: Oman Flour Mills began receiving the 2026 local wheat harvest for the sixth straight year, supporting farmers and domestic supply chains.

Oman Climate & Land: Oman’s Environment Authority kicked off a National Strategy to Combat Desertification 2040 workshop, aligning with UNCCD and Vision 2040 to tackle land degradation and protect soil, water and vegetation. Heat Stress Watch: NCSI data shows Oman’s highest average maximum temperature in three years (34.1°C in 2025), alongside lower humidity and shifting rainfall patterns. Cleaner Transport Push: Oman’s EV drive is accelerating, with EV registrations topping 5,900 in H1 2026 as charging, electric logistics pilots and green port plans move ahead. Biodiversity Spotlight: Satellite tracking maps Arabian Sea humpback whales’ restricted home range off Oman, challenging assumptions about migration. Water & Food Security Science: A study involving Sultan Qaboos University and Oman’s Environment Authority improves how DNA-bound phosphorus in soils is measured, aiming to support future food production. Regional Energy Risk (Hormuz): PM Sheikh Mohammed said the US-Iran MoU sets a negotiation track to end the war; meanwhile, shipping and insurance uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz continues to jolt markets and tanker rates. Tourism & Nature in Dhofar: “Salalah Eye” nears operation as Khareef season begins, while Dhofar’s baobabs remain a rare natural draw. Transport & Growth: Oman’s transport and storage sector added RO 2.3bn to GDP in 2025 as port cargo and container volumes rose.

Climate & Health: Oman recorded its highest average maximum temperature in three years in 2025 (34.1°C), with humidity and rainfall patterns shifting, raising heat-risk concerns. Marine Life: Satellite tracking reveals Arabian Sea humpback whales off Oman can stay in a restricted home range year-round, reshaping what we know about their “secret life.” Food Security Science: A new study involving Sultan Qaboos University and Oman’s Environment Authority improves how scientists measure biologically active soil phosphorus, a key step for more resilient farming. Desertification & Land: Oman’s Environment Authority begins a National Strategy to Combat Desertification 2040 workshop, aligning UNCCD goals with Vision 2040 targets to curb land degradation. Sustainable Frankincense: Oman’s agriculture ministry and Amwaj Perfumes launch a sustainable frankincense harvesting project in Wadi Ghazal, using internationally recognized practices over 1,500 acres. Renewables & Industry: A Sohar forum pushes renewable energy adoption for industry, while Duqm’s 890MW IPP EPC contract is signed to support power transition. Energy Security Watch (Hormuz): US-Iran talks in Switzerland produce a roadmap to keep the Strait of Hormuz open and coordinate demining, but mines remain the biggest uncertainty for shipping.

Community Solar Push: Oman’s Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR) will launch its first community solar power station under the ‘Imtidad’ programme on June 23, starting with the Al Wadi Al Kabir station, letting residents and organisations earn electricity bill credits without rooftop panels. Frankincense Conservation: Oman’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources and Amouage have launched a sustainable frankincense harvesting project in Wadi Gazelle, covering about 1,500 acres and aiming to protect trees while meeting international sustainability standards. Khareef Water Gains: Dhofar’s 2025 Khareef season delivered above-average rainfall, boosting groundwater recharge, spring flows and surface dam storage, with Kanzir station recording 731.6mm. Marine Safety & Data: Oman’s Royal Navy, via the Oman National Hydrographic Office, marked World Hydrography Day with a focus on better ocean data sharing to protect navigation and the marine environment. EV Charging Reality Check: A report flags that EV growth in Oman is constrained by limited public charging points, with MoTCIT expanding infrastructure but range anxiety still a concern. Wildlife Recovery: A new study highlights a major conservation win for loggerhead turtles on Cabo Verde’s Boa Vista, reporting an 80-fold rise in nesting over 27 years.

Community Solar in Oman: APSR will launch the “Imtidad” programme on June 23, rolling out Oman’s first community solar power station model where subscribers get electricity bill credits without rooftop panels; the Al Wadi Al Kabir station will be the first project. Frankincense Sustainability: Oman’s Agriculture ministry and Amouage Perfumes, backed by the Agricultural and Fisheries Development Fund, have started a sustainable frankincense harvesting project in Wadi Gazelle (about 1,500 acres), using international standards for tree preservation and quality monitoring. Khareef Water Boost: Dhofar’s 2025 Khareef season delivered above-average rainfall, with monitoring stations up 11–91% versus seasonal averages, boosting groundwater recharge, spring flows and dam storage. Marine Life Monitoring: Masirah’s Environment Authority recorded a loggerhead turtle tagged in 2014 returning to its nesting beach, adding new data to the island’s long-term sea turtle programme. Hydrography Day: Oman’s Royal Navy, via the Oman National Hydrographic Office, marked World Hydrography Day with a focus on ocean data sharing and safer, more sustainable maritime operations. Green Energy Push: Hynfra and Ohmium signed cooperation for a green ammonia scheme in Duqm, with a major Oman project targeting 400,000 tpa powered by 2.6 GW renewables. Salt Industry Expansion: Oman’s salt sector is moving into downstream value chains (industrial/food salt and chemicals), supported by investments over $1 billion. Telecom Spectrum Update: TRA amended radio frequency and device registration rules to improve spectrum management, simplify licensing, and support emerging wireless and satellite technologies. Sports & Tourism (local): Hawana Salalah Hotels announced readiness for Khareef 2026, while Oman’s Bukha waterfront project nears completion and aims to boost coastal tourism.

Community Solar in Oman: PSRA’s “Imtidad” programme will launch a community solar model where people can subscribe and receive electricity-bill credits without installing panels, with the Al Wadi Al Kabir station as the first pilot. Renewables & Industry: Hynfra is pushing a Duqm green ammonia project (400,000 tpa) with about $4bn investment, tied to large renewable power capacity. Salt Sector Boom: Oman’s salt industry is shifting into downstream manufacturing, with over $1bn in marine salt concessions in Al Wusta and plans for higher-value products like bromine, caustic soda, soda ash and PVC. Duqm Waterfront Plan: OPAZ unveiled a 31 sq km Duqm waterfront master plan aiming for about 370,000 visitors a year, with thousands of hotel and residential units by 2040. Heat Safety: Oman’s health ministry warns vulnerable groups to prevent heat stress and sunstroke as summer temperatures rise. Competitiveness Update: Oman climbed to 25th in the 2026 World Competitiveness Report, citing improved business and government efficiency. Hormuz Watch: Trump says no tolls will be imposed in the Strait of Hormuz during/after a 60-day ceasefire unless by the US, while shipping continues under close monitoring.

Community Solar in Oman: Oman’s PSRA is set to launch the “Imtidad” Community Solar Power Stations Programme, letting people and businesses earn electricity bill credits from community solar sites without installing panels, with the Wadi Al Kabir station as the first pilot. Heat Health Alerts: Oman’s Ministry of Health is warning residents—especially the elderly, young children, outdoor workers, and pilgrims—about heat stress and sunstroke, urging hydration, breaks in shade, and avoiding strenuous activity during peak hours. Dhofar Khareef Tourism Boost: Dhofar’s Khareef season begins tomorrow, bringing monsoon clouds, drizzle, cooler weather, and revived springs and waterfalls, alongside frankincense heritage sites that draw visitors through September. Salt Industry Expansion: Oman’s salt sector is moving into a new downstream phase, targeting high-purity industrial and food-grade salt plus salt-derived chemicals, supported by over $1bn in marine concession investments and a push toward millions of tonnes of capacity. Duqm Waterfront Plans: OPAZ unveiled a Duqm waterfront master plan aiming to attract about 370,000 visitors a year, with luxury tourism, eco-tourism, and thousands of hotel and residential units by 2040. Strait of Hormuz Shipping Reality Check: Despite claims of reopening, shipping remains shaped by legal and financial hurdles—Iran has floated permission and insurance requirements—keeping energy and trade uncertainty in the region.

Strait of Hormuz Update: The US lifted its naval blockade on Iranian ports and ships began moving again near Muscat, but Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority is also rolling out strict passage rules—vessels must submit requests 48 hours ahead via PGSA.ir, and Tehran says fees for security, safety, environmental services and “related insurance” will be waived only during a 60-day negotiation window, with charges possible afterward. Maritime Safety & Environment: Shipping remains tense and slower than normal, with mine-affected areas and ongoing navigation risks shaping route clearance and emergency support needs. Oman Energy Transition: ACME Group will invest about USD 4.2 billion to expand Oman’s green hydrogen and green ammonia project in Duqm (SEZAD), targeting major new output. Oman Tech & Crypto: Oman launched Omanhash, a mandatory national Bitcoin mining pool for licensed miners under state oversight, aiming to consolidate around 10 EH/s initially. Biodiversity Note: Biologists report the first time a humpback whale has been tracked crossing the Arabian Sea.

Strait of Hormuz Shipping Rules: Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority has rolled out a compulsory online clearance system for vessels, with passage requests submitted only via PGSA.ir or info@PGSA.ir, plus a 48-hour pre-arrival notice and route coordination due to mine-affected areas; Fees Waived: during the 60-day US-Iran negotiation period, Iran says it will waive fees for security, safety, environmental services and related insurance; Mines Still a Risk: shipping groups warn the strait may not return to normal quickly because mines remain, keeping insurance and freight costs under pressure; Oman Crypto Policy: Oman launched Omanhash, a mandatory, state-backed national Bitcoin mining pool for all licensed miners, targeting about 10 EH/s in the first phase under Ministry oversight; Oman Environment & Wildlife: researchers tracked an endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale crossing the Arabian Sea for the first time, challenging assumptions about the species’ local-only behavior; Oman Agriculture: a Tanuf vineyard in Nizwa reports a promising first grape season, backing Oman’s agricultural diversification push.

Marine Life in Oman: A humpback whale has been tracked crossing the Arabian Sea for the first time, challenging past assumptions about the species’ local-only movements; researchers used satellite tags near Oman’s marine sanctuaries and say the finding could reshape how scientists understand humpback ecology. Agriculture & Biodiversity: A Tanuf vineyard in Wilayat Nizwa completed its first production season with promising results, highlighting Oman’s push to diversify crops and strengthen local, sustainable farming. Food Security & Farming Policy: Oman took part in the AOAD session, discussing agricultural investment, animal and fish production, and food security with a focus on sustainability. Shipping & Environment Risk (Hormuz): As the US-Iran interim deal begins, shipping is starting to return—but experts warn the Strait of Hormuz remains hazardous, with mines reported in parts of the channel and safety questions still unresolved, raising the risk of pollution incidents. Green Industry in Oman: OMIFCO is positioning low-carbon ammonia and fertiliser production as the next step for Oman’s industrial future, linking food needs with emissions cuts.

Strait of Hormuz Shipping Update: The U.S. has lifted its blockade enforcement on all maritime traffic entering and leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas, while keeping naval ships nearby to monitor compliance—an important signal for regional trade and environmental risk around the Gulf of Oman. Oman Biodiversity in Focus: A feature spotlights Dhofar’s khareef-driven “forest of clouds,” where misty mountains and monsoon rains sustain rare wildlife and plant life despite the surrounding desert. Oman Climate Calendar: Oman marks the summer solstice on June 21, with the longest day and the start of the Khareef season in Dhofar—linking astronomy to the weather pattern that shapes local ecosystems. Green Industry Push: OMIFCO highlights its low-carbon transition in fertiliser production, tying ammonia-urea know-how in Sur to lower emissions and future-fit food systems. Local Agriculture: North Al Sharqiyah’s 2026 Grape Festival begins in Samad Al Shaan, promoting model farms and investment in grape cultivation. Energy Security Watch: India signals it may gradually ease emergency fuel measures once global conditions stabilise, as the Hormuz reopening talks could reduce supply strain.

Oman’s Global Culture Role: Oman was elected to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage safeguarding committee for 2026–2030, with officials highlighting links between living heritage and sustainable development, education, climate action and AI. Maritime Safety & Hormuz Recovery: As the US-Iran framework deal points to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, tracking data shows traffic is still far below pre-war levels, though some Iranian-linked tankers have restarted transponders and movements. Seafarer Protection at the Top Table: At G7 sidelines, PM Modi pressed for stronger measures to protect civilian sailors, stressing that “lakhs of Indians” work at sea and that keeping Hormuz open is vital for the global economy. Low-Carbon Fertiliser Push: OMIFCO outlined how fertiliser production is shifting toward lower-carbon ammonia and decarbonisation, tying the transition to food security and practical industrial know-how in Sur, Oman. Digital Sustainability in the Gulf: A World Environment Day “Digital Cleanup Drive” across Bahrain, UAE, Oman and Kuwait removed over 15.6 terabytes of unnecessary data, aiming to cut emissions from storage and cloud use. Oman’s Investment Pipeline: Through the “Tatweer” platform, Oman’s Housing Ministry offered 375 investment opportunities in early 2026, including incentives for food security and agricultural projects. Adventure Tourism Safety: Oman’s tourism and civil defence authorities signed a programme to boost mountain rescue, ambulance readiness and risk management for adventure tourism. Wildlife Conservation Note: Cabo Verde former turtle hunters are now protecting loggerhead nesting beaches after laws criminalised killing threatened turtles.