Oman Showcases Sustainability on World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought





Oman Celebrates World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought




Oman Joins Global Celebration of World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

Date: June 17

The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Environment Authority, marked the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, observed every year on June 17. This year’s global theme, “Restoring Land, Unlocking Opportunities,” highlights the vital link between land restoration, sustainable development, and climate resilience.

Oman’s participation underscores its commitment to environmental sustainability, land conservation, and global cooperation in combating desertification, soil degradation, and climate change. The country continues to implement forward-thinking environmental policies and nature-based solutions that protect natural ecosystems and promote green growth.

Key Environmental Initiatives in Oman

Oman’s Environment Authority is leading several national projects and strategies aimed at enhancing green cover, biodiversity protection, and climate adaptation:

  • National Initiative to Plant 10 Million Trees: Launched in January 2020, this flagship project aims to expand green spaces, combat desertification, and rehabilitate degraded land across Oman.
  • National Tree Cover Survey: Utilizing remote sensing, GIS technology, and artificial intelligence, this project maps and monitors the country’s vegetation cover to support data-driven environmental planning.
  • Mangrove Restoration Program: In collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Oman is planting one million mangrove seedlings to boost marine biodiversity, capture carbon dioxide, and enhance eco-tourism. Mangroves currently span over 1,030 hectares along Oman’s coastline.
  • National Action Plan to Combat Desertification: Updated every ten years in partnership with the Arab Organization for Agricultural Development, this strategic plan sets the framework for sustainable land management and desertification mitigation.

Oman’s Global Environmental Engagement

Oman continues to play an active role in international environmental forums, including the UNCCD COP16, where it shares its best practices and climate strategies. The country also organizes public awareness campaigns and distributes free seedlings to individuals and institutions, promoting community engagement in afforestation and sustainable living.

Conclusion

Through these ambitious initiatives, Oman reaffirms its leadership in environmental protection and sustainable development. By investing in land restoration and climate action, Oman not only supports global goals but also unlocks new economic, environmental, and social opportunities for its future generations.

Written by: Atefa Saleh
Ahmed Al Harthi

BSc in Software Engineering with Multimedia and Masters of Business Administration in Project Management. Ahmed works as an IT manager and content creator at Omanspire.

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