The sultanate’s maritime research agencies, in collaboration with universities and industry stakeholders, are now piloting offshore kelp and red‑seaweed farms along the Al‑Sharqiya coast. These efforts focus on high‑yield species such as Saccharina latissima and Asparagopsis taxiformis, both known for rapid growth and carbon‑sequestration capacity. Global studies suggest that kelp farms can absorb up to 1,500 tonnes of CO₂ per square kilometre annually, while A. taxiformis is also prized for reducing methane emissions in cattle by over 90 per cent when used as feed supplement.
Pilot installations are already operational, with initial seed lines deployed using floating long‑line systems that require no freshwater, fertilisers or feed inputs. Such technology aligns with proven sustainable practices globally, which absorb excess nitrogen and phosphorous, improve habitat complexity, and enhance biodiversity. Significantly, kelp species also locally elevate pH and oxygen levels—mitigating coastal acidification—a key benefit in a region coping with warming seas.
Project heads emphasise that the initial phase aims to refine seed propagation, anchoring techniques and harvest timing. Costs remain a barrier, particularly when scaling to offshore, rougher waters. Yet, Oman’s extensive coastline and robust port infrastructure present a competitive edge. Experts say capitalising on this geographic advantage could allow the country to supply sustainable biomass to multiple global markets, including food ingredients, alginates, bioplastics and animal‑feed sectors.
Omani universities have published data confirming the region’s suitability: sea temperatures averaging 23–24 °C and salinity around 37–40 psu, conditions conducive to consistent seaweed growth and minimal bloom risk. Coastal zones near Salalah and Duqm have emerged as testing grounds due to their nutrient‑rich upwellings and low shipping traffic, and these areas may host offshore Atlantic-style cultivation zones targeting deeper waters soon.
Benefits extend beyond carbon. The extracted biomass supports soil-health through seaweed fertilisers, closing nutrient loops and reducing reliance on imported chemical fertilisers. Early processing labs in Duqm are trialling natural fertiliser blends and bioplastic films, seeking regulatory approval. The by‑product value chain, some believe, could tilt Oman’s economic model toward bio‑innovation.
Local overfishing has pressured fisheries, but seaweed farms act as marine sanctuaries, replenishing stocks by serving as artificial reefs. This aligns with ecosystem‑based strategies already applied in mangrove restoration across Al‑Qurm, reinforcing coastal resilience. As combined efforts, blue‑carbon initiatives offer environmental paybacks and income diversification for fisher communities adapting to ecological stress.
Private-sector involvement is building. A consortium led by a regional aquaculture firm has signed a memorandum with a European bio‑tech company to establish a pilot feed‑and‑grow centre. The aim is to optimise A. taxiformis cultivation to meet regional demand for methane‑reducing cattle feed. Farm trials commence in late 2025 with yields expected within two years. Experts caution yields must reach commercial scale—hundreds of hectares—to truly capture economies and meet feed‑mix demands.
Globally, seaweed farming already accounts for nearly 36 million tonnes of marine biomass, with over US $16 billion in extract markets. Oman’s entry could tap emerging demand for renewable, carbon‑neutral materials in Europe and Asia. Oman’s strategic location enables value‑chain integration, from cultivation through processing to export, making it a credible contender beyond regional markets.
Challenges remain. Scaling offshore operations demands robust engineering to anchor lines in storm‑prone waters and prevent invasive species from spreading. Local environmental agencies are drafting regulations to require cultivation of native species only and to prevent overharvesting of natural seaweed beds. This regulatory coherence, experts argue, is essential to ensuring ecological integrity and market credibility.
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Oman