Oman’s newest UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves Al Jabal Al Akhdar and Sirrin (Al Sireen) aren’t just conservation landmarks, they’re also eco-tourism destinations
Oman has won formal inclusion of Al Jabal Al Akhdar Biosphere Reserve and Sirrin (Al Sireen) Biosphere Reserve into UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves, a decision announced during the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves in Hangzhou (27–28 Sept 2025).
Al Jabal Al Akhdar and Sirrin — the facts you need
- Al Jabal Al Akhdar (the “Green Mountain”) covers roughly 4,500 hectares in the western Hajar range, rising from about 600m to nearly 3,000m and sheltering 60% of Oman’s vascular plant species, plus Arabian ibex, Arabian wolf and more than 71 bird species; nearly 13,000 people live in its transition zone, where traditional agriculture and grazing continue.
- Sirrin (reported as Al Sireen) Reserve lies in the eastern Hajar, about 45 km southwest of Muscat, and spans roughly 103,888 hectares; it’s classified IUCN Category II, hosts over 400 plant species (including endemics and endangered plants), Arabian gazelle and diverse birdlife, and contains pre-Islamic rock carvings that add cultural value.
Eco-travel in Oman: How to plan a visit to UNESCO’s new Biosphere Reserves
Oman’s newest UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves — Al Jabal Al Akhdar and Sirrin (Al Sireen) — aren’t just global conservation wins, they’re also gateways to authentic eco-travel experiences. Here’s how to plan your visit while respecting their unique biodiversity.Stop 1: Al Jabal Al Akhdar — Oman’s “Green Mountain”
- What to see: Terraced rose farms, juniper woodlands, and viewpoints rising to 3,000m. Spot Arabian ibex, rare wolves, and more than 70 bird species.
- Activities: Guided nature walks, village tours of Saiq Plateau, and stargazing at night.
- Travel tip: Best time to visit is March–May for blooming roses. Stay in eco-lodges or locally run guesthouses to support community livelihoods.
Stop 2: Sirrin Reserve — Wildlife and Rock Art in the Eastern Hajar
- What to see: Arabian gazelles, endangered flora, and ancient rock carvings that predate Islam.
- Activities: Safari-style drives with licensed guides, birdwatching trails, and heritage site visits.
- Travel tip: Access requires permits via Oman’s Environment Authority book early with registered eco-tour operators.
How to reach and how much it costs
Travelers are encouraged to stay in local guesthouses or community-run eco-lodges to ensure tourism benefits surrounding communities. Hiring licensed guides not only guarantees safety but also channels income directly to residents. Visitors should take care to stick to marked trails and minimize waste, avoiding single-use plastics whenever possible.For those planning their budget, a traveler making day trips from Muscat to both sites can expect to spend about OMR 70–90 ($180–235 / ₹15,000–19,000) over two days. A mid-range option, combining an eco-stay at Jabal Akhdar with a guided tour of Sirrin, costs between OMR 200–250 ($520–650 / ₹42,000–52,000) for three days, including accommodation, guides, and transport.
Why UNESCO listing matters
UNESCO frames biosphere reserves as “living laboratories” that combine conservation with sustainable development; the 2025 designations expand the World Network and push global progress toward protecting key ecosystems under targets such as the Kunming-Montreal biodiversity framework. Oman’s two new entries make it one of six countries seeing a first-ever WNBR site this year. The listings strengthen legal recognition, unlock international research partnerships, and raise Oman’s profile for conservation funding and technical cooperation .
