Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure (MSDI) for Harmonising Ecological Conservation and Resource Use in Coastal Systems: A Stakeholder Perspective from the Sultanate of Oman

Background: Fisheries, energy infrastructure, shipping and tourism are driving growing pressures on coastal and marine systems in the Sultanate of Oman, which also have conservation priorities. Ecological and socio-economic data can be incorporated into a Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure (MSDI), but this has not been explored in Oman. The study aims to examine the role of MSDI in contributing to the balance between ecological conservation and sustainable use of resources in the coastal areas of Oman in the context of Oman Vision 2040 and UN SDG 14 (Life Below Water). The method used was a qualitative one. 12 key stakeholders from nine Omani organisations were interviewed, such as the Environment Authority, the Ministry of Transport, the National Hydrographic Office, OQ (oil & gas), Asyad (ports), and Fisheries Development Oman, using semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyse transcripts. Policy documents (Vision 2040, Royal Decree 15/2011) were also reviewed. Preliminary results show that there are six key themes: (1) severe data silos and ownership barriers, (2) gaps in environmental monitoring (e.g., out-of-date bathymetry, limited coral reef mapping), (3) financial and technological limitations, (4) weak inter institutional coordination, (5) strong recognition of the potential of MSDI in conservation and blue economy planning by stakeholders, and (6) need of capacity building and legal frameworks. Conclusions: An MSDI is not only a technical instrument, but it is also a governance enabler for Oman. Stakeholders agree that a nationally mandated, interoperable MSDI would help to minimise duplicated surveys, enhance management of MPAs and aid in conflict-sensitive spatial planning. The study suggests the conceptual MSDI framework (technical + governance) and recommends that there should be a national steering committee for MSDI under the umbrella of Oman Vision 2040.