As campers make beeline to Oman’s various tourism spots, authorities have advised them to follow the rules and keep the places clean.
According to the PR department at Muscat Municipality, one should look out for the signage if camping is allowed at the particular place.
Campers must get a permit and pay a security deposit of RO 100 that will be valid for seven nights.
“Camping should only be in the places specified by the municipality by leaving a distance between each site of not less than 5 metres. Also, one should leave a minimum distance of 10 metres between the camping site and the beach,” Khalid al Khanbashi, PR official, said, adding that the camping site should be away from the fishermen’s work areas, restricted areas and at least 100 metres away from residential neighbourhoods.
He further said that one shouldn’t use camping for immoral activities or to carry out illegal transactions which will attract punitive action. The camp or caravan shouldn’t be used for any prohibited purposes or causing annoyance to others. Also, camp should be in adherence to the laws, decisions, orders and public morals observed in the Sultanate of Oman.
Following points need to be borne in mind while camping:
(1) Keep camping site clean throughout the period of use
(2) Avoid using mobile toilets without specifications
(3) Do not damage agriculture or wild plants
(4) Do not erect sand barriers or any kind of modifications in the natural environment of the camping site
(5) Avoid barbecue on green areas and on beaches.
The issued licence number must be fixed on a plate on the front side of the caravan, tent or the sitting place, and the licensee may not assign the licence to third parties, or put up camp in a location other than the one specified in the licence.
Usage of concrete or other building materials should be avoided for any purpose and one should refrain from using generators that cause inconvenience to others. Generators which don’t cause disturbance to others are permitted.
A fine of RO 200 will be levied on campers without permit while a fine of RO 50 will be slapped on those who fail to comply with one of the rules or requirements for camping. If the violation is repeated, the caravan, tent or sitting area will be removed for non-compliance of the rules.
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