The Sultanate of Oman is a vast gravel dessert with mountain ranges that are restricted to the Northern region. While Oil is Oman’s main source of income unlike certain Gulf nations who depend on this natural source entirely, Oman has also diversified into agriculture and fishing. Situated at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, the coast is flanked by the Arabian Sea on the southeast side and the Gulf of Oman on the north-eastern area. Such a location also means that Oman has a rich and diverse marine life.
The Aquarium and Marine Science and Fisheries Centre is located in Marina, Oman, more specifically in Sidab. A project supported by the UNESCO, it was established in 1986. The public aquarium aims at creating awareness and providing information about Oman’s marine life. It also allows academics to study the various species in depth.
While the glass and shell display attracts the least number of visitors, if interested you can spend hours examining the intricacies of each shell. If you stare hard enough then you can spot the Moray eels. Hiding in coral reefs they are so camouflaged with their environment, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting prey.
Sharksuckers are another interesting type of fish that you can watch. Using their disc shaped dorsal that act as sucking devices, they attach themselves on to ships or other marine animals to travel from one feeding ground to another. Sea Turtles will keep blinking at you with their beady black eyes. While you may think of them as being clumsy and slow, the reality is that they are excellent swimmers.
Apart from these, there are also many colourful species of coral reef fish. Some swim past like streaking flashes of colour, while others lazily swim around, allowing you to ogle at their prettiness for longer, almost like beauties flaunting and enjoying the extra attention.
Since the aquarium is situated in marina, staying at a Muscat hotel would be extremely convenient. Belonging to the Millennium Hotels & Resorts chain, Millennium Resort Mussanah is a popular choice. Combining both Asian and Arabian themes, this Oman Muscat hotel is conveniently located.