Oman Clears Illegal Gear from North Al Batinah Fishing Ports
The Directorate General of Agricultural, Fisheries and Water Resources in North Al Batinah has officially launched a major operation to clear regional fishing ports of unauthorized equipment.
The campaign, which commenced on October 5, 2026, is a targeted effort to regulate port usage and ensure safety and order. The operation affects several key locations across the region, specifically in the wilayats of Sohar, Shinas, Saham, Liwa, and Suwaiq.
Targeting Unlicensed Equipment and Abandoned Gear
Authorities are conducting inspections to identify and remove various items that violate regional port regulations. The crackdown specifically targets:
- Unlicensed or abandoned boats
- Boat trailers and unauthorized vehicles
- Fishing nets stored outside of designated zones
- Prohibited fishing tools and equipment
The initiative follows recent enforcement actions in other areas, including the detention of workers for illegal boating in Al Ashkharah and the seizure of equipment during squid fishing campaigns in Dhofar.
The 14-Day Grace Period
To allow boat owners and crew members to rectify their situation, the directorate has introduced a grace period. Once an official sticker is applied to a piece of equipment, owners have 14 days to relocate the items to an authorized area.
Please note: Failure to comply after this 14-day window expires may result in administrative and legal action taken by the directorate.
Advice for Expatriate Workers
Expatriate workers, including those from India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan who manage daily operations at these ports, are advised to take immediate precautions to avoid penalties. To ensure compliance, workers should ensure