It has been designated as a natural reserve since 1996, after it was registered with the International Barrier Reef in 1984, and it is a picturesque natural settlement for many different types and formations of aquatic organisms.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Obtaining vouchers to enter the reserve to practice swimming, diving or camping from the General Directorate of Nature Conservation.
  
• It is not allowed to go to the islands or camp during the period from the beginning of May until the end of October each year. After this period, camping is allowed on the islands of Al-Jabal Al-Kabir and Al-Joun only.
  
• The coupon is valid for one day only and the limited date and is not subject to change, modification or transfer. The holder must adhere to all applicable rules and systems regarding the protection of wildlife and protected natural sites in the Sultanate.
  
• It is prohibited to tamper with fishing nets and fishermen’s cages.
  
• Fixed or mobile places designated for the purposes of lighting a fire (barbecue) should be used on the two islands where camping is permitted.
  
• Do not collect or damage coral or other marine organisms while diving.
  
• You must not harm nesting turtles or disturb them by touching them or approaching them while they are moving on the beaches or touching or collecting their eggs.
  
• You must not harm nesting birds, disturb them, approach them, touch their eggs, collect them, or move them.
  
• Plants, seeds, cats, dogs or other animals must not be brought to these islands.
  
• Prepare the cuttings of plants and herbs inside the reserve.
  
• Garbage must be disposed of by placing it in designated bags and carrying it with them outside the island.
  
• Lights and fires must be turned off after nine o’clock in the evening.
  
• The coupon must be filled out and the first half of it must be handed over to the Wildlife Protection Unit observers, while the other half remains in the booklet and returned to the specialists in the Ministry.