Dhofar's Abalone Fishing Season Marks Success Through Sustainability

The Dhofar Governorate has concluded its 2024 abalone fishing season with remarkable success, as reported by the Fisheries Research Center under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. This year witnessed significant improvements in both the size and abundance of abalones harvested. A total production exceeding 76 tonnes was achieved over just a 10-day period—an impressive increase from the previous record of 149 tons collected during a 30-day span in 2011. The season's success is particularly notable given that only 2,369 licenses were issued, compared to 4,418 in 2011.

The Wilayat of Sadah was the primary contributor, accounting for 93.5% of the total production, while the Wilayat of Mirbat contributed an additional 6.5%. Assistant Director General Eng. Muslim bin Salem Rafeet praised these efforts as highly successful.

In alignment with sustainability goals, the Ministry of Agriculture implemented several measures: establishing size limits for catches, enacting seasonal fishing closures, setting strict licensing requirements, promoting responsible fishing methods and tools, and launching educational campaigns on sustainable practices. A dedicated team within Dhofar's Department of Fisheries has been tasked with enforcing these regulations and fostering a new visual identity that underscores the importance of sustainable abalone fishing.

To balance economic benefits with ecological responsibility, the Ministry carefully determined the number of divers allowed in this season's operation. Out of 2,475 licenses issued, approximately 2,459 met all necessary criteria and were awarded to fishermen crucial to preserving the future of the abalone population.

License distribution saw the Wilayat of Mirbat receiving nearly half (47%) of all diving licenses, followed by Sadah at 42%, Salalah at 7%, and other regions making up the remainder. A significant 66% of these licenses were granted to divers with prior experience from previous seasons.

In addition to fishing licenses, 106 permits were issued for processing, storage, and trading abalones, with eleven centers authorized for trade operations. The economic value of Omani abalone is substantial, fetching OMR 45 per kilogram locally and reaching up to OMR 200 in international markets. This lucrative industry supports local livelihoods and contributes significantly to Oman's economy through exports.

Moreover, the fishing industry boosts Dhofar’s tourism sector by attracting visitors interested in this unique aspect of Omani culture. The Ministry has embraced technological innovations such as drones for fishery monitoring and digitalized licensing processes to enhance oversight and management efficiency.

Eng. Rafeet emphasized that abalone is exclusive to Oman's southern coastlines, including the Sharbat region of Wilayat Shaleem and extending to the Al-Hallaniyat Islands and the Wilayat of Mirbat. This exclusivity not only makes it a cultural treasure but also underscores its importance as a driver for local economies and international trade.