Muscat - Camping is a way of life in Muscat Governorate, dotted as it is with fertile plains, mountains, and green plains in the south. Such activities, however, come with some riders as laid down exhaustively in the rules and regulations framed by the municipality regarding the camping sites.

Prior permission is required if someone wants to camp at one of the camping sites. However, this will apply to those who intend to camp for a period more than 48 hours. For a lesser period than the stipulated 48 hours, no permission is required.

Camping in caravans or tents is allowed, but the stipulation above applies and anyone violating this rule is liable to be penalised.

The permit issued to the campers allowing camping beyond 48 hours is valid for 7 nights, extendable further, but besides the licence fee, a security deposit of OMR100, is to be paid, which is refundable.

The first article of the Municipal rules says, “No one will be allowed to camp, whether in a caravan or tent, or sitting for more than 48 hours, without obtaining a prior permit from the competent service directorate, and paying a security deposit of OMR100, that will be valid for seven nights, and can be extended.”

Camping is allowed at sites specified by the municipality and the distance between two camps should not be less than five metres, as per the rules.

Moreover, there should be a minimum of 10 metres distance between the camping site and the beach and the camping site should be away from the fishing areas or security-restricted areas. It should also be at least 100 metres away from residential neighbourhoods.

Article 3 of the rules lays down some stipulations regarding hygiene. It says that the designated site should remain clean throughout the period of use. People should avoid using mobile toilets other than those specified, or not approved and also take steps to avoid damaging local agriculture or wild plants.

No burning or backfilling of waste is allowed other than lighting fires or barbecue in green and beach areas. Making of sand barriers or any kind of modifications in the natural topography at the camping site is strictly prohibited.

The licensee is obliged to provide security and safety equipment at the site at all times, another article says.

If a fence is put up around the site, it should be made of temporary materials which do not block the view. Use of direct lasers or lights towards the sky is also not allowed. Besides, the camp or caravan should be used in a manner so as not to offend others.

People should abide by the laws, decisions, orders and public morals observed in the Sultanate of Oman.

In addition, the issued licence number must be displayed on a plate at the front of the caravan, tent or the sitting place, and the licensee may not assign the licence to third parties, or practice the activity in a location other than the location specified in the licence.

The use of concrete or other building materials, noisy generators that cause inconvenience to other visitors is not allowed.

The parking, entry and exit at the site should be organised and the site should not be levelled with heavy equipment. There is a strict penalty for those not following the rules.

Article 7, says, “Anyone who violates these controls and requirements shall be punished with an administrative fine of OMR200 for camping without obtaining a permit and a fine of OMR50 in case of non-compliance with one of the rules or requirements for camping.” For repeat offenders or in case of failure to implement the requirements, the caravan, tent or sitting area will be removed.

Due to the rising demand for camping permits, specially at this time of the year, Muscat Municipality has created an online portal for people wishing to obtain camping permits in Muscat Governorate. All they need is to visit the portal and fill out the form on: https://eservices.mm.gov.om/Home/Service/MTA5

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