Oman Strengthens Regional Presence in Maritime Sports

Maritime Sports Committee Targets Expanded Participation

Muscat: The Oman Maritime Sports Committee continues its efforts to consolidate the Sultanate of Oman’s position as a leading destination for maritime sports at regional and international levels, capitalizing on the country’s more than 3,000 kilometers of coastline and implementing technical and organizational plans to expand participation and refine national talent.

In a statement to Oman News Agency, Sheikh Ali Said Bait Fadhil, Chairman of the Committee, said the body undertakes a comprehensive organizational and technical role, including setting strategies, organizing championships, qualifying personnel and supervising international participation.

He noted that the Committee organizes more than 15 competitions and programmes annually, ranging from local championships and training camps to community initiatives, with the participation of over 1,200 male and female athletes from various coastal governorates.

Sheikh Ali said maritime sports have recorded growth of approximately 40 percent in recent years, particularly among youth. This increase, he explained, stems from intensified awareness programmes, the inclusion of maritime activities in national and community events, and cooperation with more than 12 clubs and educational institutions to integrate these sports into their annual plans.

He added that Oman’s diverse marine environment and favorable climate allow year-round training and competitions, contributing to the hosting of regional championships and attracting international participation.

On achievements, he said national teams have secured more than 10 medals and advanced positions in Gulf and Asian championships over recent years, reflecting improvements in technical performance through intensive training programmes. These included organizing eight local and overseas training camps and engaging international experts in coaching and refereeing.

Last season, the Committee organized around 18 maritime championships and events, with participation from more than 35 teams and clubs and notable growth in junior categories — an indicator of the expanding base of practitioners and the success of talent development plans.

Looking ahead, Sheikh Ali said the Committee plans to organize at least 20 championships and events this year, launch two new competitions for under-16 and under-18 categories, and conduct 10 technical and refereeing courses to qualify more than 60 national coaches and referees in line with approved international standards.

He emphasized that talent discovery programmes in coastal governorates remain a priority, with efforts underway to increase the number of practitioners to over 1,500 male and female athletes by year-end and to activate maritime sports in at least 15 clubs in coordination with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth.