OMRAN Group launches "Secret Seas"

Under the auspices of HE Dr Saoud Hamoud Ahmed Al-Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, The Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) launched the "Secret Seas" book today at The Oman Maritime Exhibition in Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. This initiative falls within the framework of the Group's efforts to promote nature tourism and Oman's rich and unique marine life.

A central theme of the book is to reveal the beauty of Oman's marine life and present it to visitors, tourists, and the general public in a captivating format that properly reflects seven years of work by the authors, Paul Flandinette and marine sciences Professor Michel Claereboudt.

This book presents extensive photographic documentation of marine life in various regions of Oman, including Khasab, Daymaniyat Islands, Al Fahal Island, Bandar Al Khairan, Masirah, Mirbat, Salalah, and Al Hallaniyat Islands.

Commenting on the book launch, Hassan AL Zadjali, Art & Culture Expert at OMRAN Group, said: "The 'Secret seas' book is a part of the OMRAN Group's efforts to promote the beauty of the Omani marine environment, which is home to rare and endangered fish and turtles, as well as various types of coral."

Underwater photographer, Paul Flandinette, explained that the book was part of a larger effort to document Oman's marine life. He said: "It was a very successful journey of discovery. It was our goal to capture the hidden secrets of Oman's seas in breathtaking detail for researchers, divers and everyone for a passion for this unique underwater world.

In addition, he thanked all the authorities and individuals involved for their efforts in the success of this book.

Oman's unique location and stunning 3,165km coastline overlooking the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman makes it an ideal sanctuary rich in marine life. It is home to 1,600 species of fish, some 20 species of cetaceans and nearly 200 species of corals. As a result of the abundance of marine life, new species are regularly being discovered.

The OMRAN Group signed the agreement to support and sponsor 'Secret Seas', which adds a distinctive element to Oman's marine resources. This falls within the framework of the Group's effort to support national tourism through several initiatives and projects based on its four main pillars: economy, society, environment and cultural heritage.

The OMRAN Group is committed to working and collaborating with its tourism and other sector partners to achieve the goals of Oman Vision 2040 and the national tourism strategy.