The Daymaniyat Islands
Oman's most beautiful marine reserve — and the reason travellers book a boat from Al Mouj Marina.
Discover the Daymaniyat Islands
Nine uninhabited islands scattered across the Gulf of Oman — a protected nature reserve and the finest snorkelling in the country.
Lying roughly 16–18 km off the Muscat coast, the Daymaniyat Islands have been a government-protected reserve since 1996. Their reefs shelter more than 300 species of fish and over 100 species of coral, alongside sea turtles, dolphins, rays and reef sharks. Seasonal whale sharks pass through between June and October.
As a permitted operator, we follow the reserve's rules so the islands stay pristine. Beaches close from 1 May to 31 October for nesting birds and turtles; island landings run from 1 November to 30 April.
- 9Uninhabited protected islands
- 16–18 kmOff the Muscat coast
- 300+Species of reef fish
- 1996Protected nature reserve since
What you'll see underwater
The reserve is one of the richest marine habitats in the region. Here's what guests most often encounter.
Sea turtles
Three species, including green and endangered hawksbill turtles — often seen in numbers.
Reefs & fish
Over 300 species of fish and 100+ species of coral across the reserve's reefs.
Sharks & rays
Harmless reef and blacktip sharks, plus rays gliding over the sand.
Dolphins & whale sharks
Dolphins on the ride out, with whale sharks passing through June–October.
At a glance
- Islands
- 9 uninhabited islands
- Distance
- 16–18 km off the Muscat coast
- Boat ride
- ~45 minutes from Al Mouj Marina
- Protected since
- 1996 (government nature reserve)
- Best season
- October to April
- Island landings
- Permitted 1 November – 30 April
- Beaches closed
- 1 May – 31 October (nesting season)
- Marine life
- Turtles, dolphins, reef sharks, rays, coral
Protecting the reserve
The Daymaniyat Islands are a protected nature reserve, and we take that seriously. As a permitted operator we follow the rules that keep the reserve healthy — anchoring responsibly, briefing guests, and never touching or feeding the wildlife.
The beaches close each year from 1 May to 31 October so nesting birds and turtles are left undisturbed; landings resume from 1 November to 30 April. By travelling with a licensed operator, you help make sure these islands stay as beautiful for the next visitor as they are for you.
- Permitted, reserve-compliant operator following animal-welfare guidelines.
- Trips planned around the seasonal rules and the day's sea conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Where do the tours depart from?
How far are the Daymaniyat Islands and how long is the boat ride?
What is the best season to visit the Daymaniyat Islands?
What marine life might I see?
What is included in the snorkelling trip?
Can I cancel my booking?
How do I book a tour?
Are the tours suitable for families and children?
Ready for the islands?
Tell us your tour, date and group size — we'll confirm everything on WhatsApp, usually within the hour. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
- +968 9392 5130· call or WhatsApp
- royalmarinetours@gmail.com
- Al Mouj Marina, Muscat, Oman