Muscat Governorate dive sites

The Daymaniyat Islands are a protected nature reserve and diving is only permitted through licensed operators who hold valid permits. Access to the islands is regulated to minimize impact on nesting turtles and marine life. Dive centres in Muscat and Seeb hold seasonal permits and handle all logistics. Individual boats are not permitted to moor at the islands without authorization. The reserve is closed entirely during turtle nesting season from June to September.

Leopard sharks are most commonly encountered at Daymaniyat Shark Alley during the cooler winter months from November to February when water temperatures drop to 22 to 24 degrees Celsius. They rest on the sandy channel floor during daylight hours, often partially buried or lying under rocky overhangs. Sightings become less frequent as water temperatures rise above 26 degrees. Early morning dives offer the best chance of finding them undisturbed before other boats arrive.

Daymaniyat Shark Alley is located in the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve approximately 18 kilometres offshore from the Muscat coastline near Al Seeb. The boat journey takes between 40 and 60 minutes depending on sea conditions and vessel speed. Most operators depart from the marina at Al Mouj or from Seeb fishing harbour. Full-day trips typically include two dives at different sites within the island group.