Oman, Suwaiq, Artificial Marine farm
January 31 • 2013
The Suwaiq Marine Farm Artificial Reef Complex, the largest industrial marine farm in the Gulf, is nearing its final stages of construction, with a projected completion date in April. Encompassing a staggering 20km by 7km area of the seabed off the Suwaiq coast, this monumental project is set to become a beacon of ocean sustainability. Comprising a total of 4,280 purpose-built artificial reefs, this initiative is the result of the collaborative efforts led by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR) since 2018.
The Award-Winning Environmental Program
The significance of Oman’s artificial reef program, championed by MAFWR, gained international acclaim as the Arab Scientific Community Organization (ASCO) honored the sultanate with the best environmental program accolade in the Gulf during a ceremony in Doha in December 2020.
Reviving Ocean SustainabilitY
Ryan Paik, General Manager of Haejoo Engineering & Constructions, the principal contractor for the Suwaiq project, emphasizes the urgency of addressing the decline in fisheries stocks due to coastal developments and climate change. The marine farm projects represent a proven solution to promote ocean sustainability. By establishing essential habitats and breeding grounds for coral reef ecosystems, they foster thriving aquatic environments along the foreshore.
A Catalyst for Sustainable Ecosystems
Haejoo, a distinguished South Korean firm specializing in global ocean sustainability endeavors, has already spearheaded the creation of eight artificial reefs along Oman’s coasts since 2013. Collaborating closely with both the government and major corporations, Haejoo’s efforts extend to CSR initiatives with a focus on marine ecosystems. These collaborations include partnerships with entities like Jusoor Foundation, Omifco, and Al Mouj Muscat, aimed at developing eco-sustainable aquatic habitat systems.
Aligning with Oman Vision 2040
In sync with Oman Vision 2040, the nation’s commitment to economic diversification and tourism growth, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources has taken the lead in marine farm projects. The artificial reef complexes have demonstrated their effectiveness by increasing fish biomass and biodiversity manifold. Additionally, they offer potential for eco-tourism, benefitting SMEs and the local economy. Notably, Al Mouj-funded Seeb artificial reef has pioneered sustainable value over five years, transforming the metropolitan area into a unique tourism destination.
Recognizing the critical role of marine environments in food security and economic prosperity, particularly for nations like Oman with rich fishing traditions, Haejoo reaffirms its commitment to providing eco-sustainable solutions. By safeguarding aquatic resources, protecting coastlines, and contributing to fisheries and tourism sectors, the marine farm program remains an integral part of Oman’s coastal legacy.