Nestled in the Arabian Sea, the Isole Al Hillaniyat islands represent one of Oman's most captivating hidden treasures. Approximately 220 kilometers from Salalah, this archipelago features Al Hallaniyah as its crown jewel—a 56 square kilometer island with impressive peaks reaching heights of 495 meters.
During our recent expedition to these remote islands, we discovered why they deserve more attention from adventurous travelers. Al Hallaniyah, the largest of the isole hili group, supports a small fishing community of only 100-150 inhabitants, primarily engaged in traditional fishing practices. However, what truly makes these islands extraordinary is their ecological significance. Here, large groups of turtles nest on protected beaches, diverse bird species thrive in specialized habitats, and the surrounding waters hide remarkable archeological treasures—including a Portuguese shipwreck that yielded 2,800 artifacts and the world's oldest astrolabe.
In this comprehensive guide, I'll take you through everything you need to know about this untouched paradise—from its unique geography and incredible biodiversity to its rich cultural heritage and how you can experience it for yourself.
The Isole Al Hillaniyat islands, officially known as the Khuriya Muriya Islands, are strategically positioned in the northeastern part of Dhofar Governorate in southern Oman. This remote archipelago stretches along Oman's coastline overlooking the Arabian Sea, approximately 50km from the mainland. Al Hallaniyah, the largest island, sits centrally within this cluster, situated about 8km east of Al-Sawda, the second largest island in the group.
Administratively falling under Wilayat Shalim and al Hallaniyyat Islands, this archipelago consists of five distinct islands. Al Hallaniyah forms part of a unique geographic formation that contributes to Oman's diverse maritime landscape. The islands have significant strategic importance, as they lie along sea routes connecting the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea. Despite their remote location, these islands represent an integral component of Oman's territorial waters and maritime boundaries.
Al Hallaniyah spans approximately 56 square kilometers with an impressive 45km coastline. The terrain across the island is predominantly rugged and barren, although the eastern portion supports some vegetation including tamarix trees and sparse grass.
What makes the topography truly remarkable is its central region, characterized by clustered granite chimney peaks. The northern headland, known as Ras al Hallaniyah, forms a bold projecting bluff reaching 501 meters above sea level. This dramatic coastline features a Muschelkalk cliff that descends almost vertically into the sea for about a mile on either side of the bluff. Additionally, the northeastern side of the island showcases a massive limestone cliff formation.
Accessing these remote islands requires some planning. Travelers have several transportation options:
For those seeking to explore beyond the main island, boats remain the primary means of inter-island transportation, as no bridges connect these isolated landmasses.
The waters surrounding the Isole Al Hillaniyat islands harbor some of Oman's most pristine marine ecosystems. Characterized by their virgin nature, these islands showcase extraordinary biodiversity that remains largely untouched by mass tourism or industrial fishing.
The shallow waters of Isole Hili feature remarkable coral diversity, supporting vibrant communities of sponges, seaweeds, and algae. Notably, a new genus and species of coral belonging to the Oculinidae family was recently discovered in these coastal waters. The reefs are adorned with both hard and soft corals, creating homes for colorful macro life and massive schools of fish.
What makes these ecosystems particularly special is their pristine condition. Local fishermen have traditionally used sustainable fishing methods, avoiding nets that could damage the delicate reef structures. This conservation-minded approach has allowed various species, including the abundant spiny lobster (Panulirus homarus), to thrive.
The sandy beaches of these islands serve as critical nesting sites for several turtle species. Research indicates that the archipelago supports one of the world's most important nesting areas for Loggerhead turtles. Green turtles also regularly lay their eggs here, while evidence suggests Hawksbill turtles nest on the islands as well.
Female turtles drag themselves ashore at night, dig deep nests in the sand, and deposit between 50-200 eggs before returning to the sea. The entire process takes approximately one hour, creating a remarkable natural spectacle.
Perhaps most impressive is the abundance of marine mammals in these waters. Local fishermen have reported seeing two types of dolphins—Spinner and Risso—alongside nine humpback whales in a single day. These sightings aren't mere coincidences; the Hallaniyat Islands are home to a unique non-migratory population of Arabian Sea humpback whales.
First emerging as a small-scale marine tourism opportunity, whale watching has become a distinctive attraction in the region. For divers and marine enthusiasts, encounters with these magnificent creatures, along with manta rays, represent an extraordinary opportunity to witness marine megafauna in their natural habitat.
Beyond their marine splendor, the terrestrial ecosystems of Isole Al Hillaniyat islands showcase remarkable ecological diversity. These islands serve as critical habitats for numerous species, making them biologically significant despite their relatively small size.
The archipelago holds international importance for its avian population. Al Qabliyya Island functions as the largest resting site for migratory birds in the region, remaining free from predators. Spotted gannets have established over a thousand nests on this island.
Furthermore, these islands represent the only known nesting location for Audubon's shearwater in the region. Other significant species include the Red-billed Tropicbird and Crested Term, with the latter forming large colonies.
Remarkably, nine bird species have been documented on Al Hallaniyat Island, including eagles, gray herons, white herons, wheatears, zimim, Indian crows, and sandpipers. The islands uniquely provide the only breeding grounds in Oman for the Masked Booby and Socotra Cormorant.
Al Hallaniyah boasts four distinct vegetation zones, reflecting the island's complex ecological interactions. With approximately 6% tree cover, these zones support various landscapes that harbor diverse plant species.
Researchers have documented 13 plant species on Al Hallaniyat Island. The vegetation includes occasional Tamarix and Acacia species, while Heliotropium species and grasses thrive near brackish water seepages.
On Al-Soudah Island, five plant varieties exist: Asalib (Lasaf), Sana Makki, Haram, Al-Ragl Al-Bahri, and Metkeh (Al-Aljan). The coastal areas feature good coverage of Suaeda kuriense, alongside plants of special interest such as Suaeda moschatus and Launaea off. espinosa.
Conservation efforts focus on preserving the archipelago's crucial nesting grounds. The Environment Authority conducts regular biodiversity surveys, having issued recommendations to increase protection for the islands' plant and animal diversity.
The proposed Al Hallaniyyat Islands Nature Reserve encompasses habitats vital for large numbers of birds, marine turtles, and various marine organisms. In fact, the islands' designation as a protected area recognizes their significance as ecological sanctuaries where multiple species can breed undisturbed.
The Isole Al Hillaniyat islands conceal a fascinating historical tapestry that stretches back thousands of years, with archeological treasures both on land and beneath the surrounding waters.
Archeological expeditions have uncovered significant pre-Islamic sites across the archipelago. Both Al Hallaniyat and Al Sauda islands harbor ancient tombs, houses, and storage structures that offer glimpses into the region's distant past. These discoveries hint at early human settlements that existed long before modern civilization reached these remote shores. Archeologists believe these sites may connect to Neolithic development in southern Arabia, which flourished between 6500 and 3100 BCE. Nevertheless, the archeological record remains incomplete, as researchers acknowledge that more excavations and studies are necessary to fully understand these historical remnants.
Fishing forms the cornerstone of island life and economy. When the Charif season arrives (mid-May to mid-September), cold, nutrient-rich water wells up from the depths, bringing an abundance of fish to the surrounding waters. This natural phenomenon has shaped the islanders' traditional livelihood for generations. Beyond fishing in coastal waters, residents sail between islands when weather permits to harvest birds and gather eggs, supplementing their marine-based diet. Remnants of the original harbor pier and old fish processing facilities still stand as testament to this enduring way of life.
The islands' isolation has preserved unique cultural elements, especially their distinctive language. Residents speak a dialect of Shehri (also called Jibbali), maintaining linguistic traditions that differentiate them from mainland Omanis. Community bonds run exceptionally deep, with our guide during our visit explaining that "everybody on this island is a cousin or cousin of a cousin".
Moreover, island life remains remarkably untouched by modern economic pressures. Under a special arrangement initiated by former Sultan Qaboos and continued by Sultan Haitham, residents receive free electricity, water, and even transportation to mainland Salalah via ship or military aircraft. This governmental support has helped preserve the islands' traditional character, creating what visitors describe as "like coming in on a time machine" to a bygone era.
The Isole Al Hillaniyat islands truly represent one of the last untouched paradises on our planet. Throughout this guide, we've explored how these remote Omani islands offer an extraordinary blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage rarely found elsewhere.
Undoubtedly, the archipelago's pristine marine ecosystems stand as its crown jewel, with vibrant coral reefs, critical turtle nesting grounds, and the unique non-migratory humpback whale population creating an underwater sanctuary. Meanwhile, the islands serve as crucial habitats for rare bird species, particularly on Al Qabliyya Island where thousands of migratory birds find safe haven.
Additionally, the cultural tapestry woven through these islands tells a fascinating story. Ancient tombs and pre-Islamic ruins hint at settlements dating back thousands of years, while traditional fishing practices continue much as they have for generations. The preservation of the Shehri dialect among islanders further highlights how this remote community has maintained its distinctive identity.
After visiting these remarkable islands, I can attest that their relative obscurity actually contributes to their charm. Unlike many tourist destinations, Al Hillaniyat offers authentic experiences rather than manufactured attractions. The government's special support for island residents has consequently helped preserve both environmental and cultural treasures.
Last but not least, those willing to undertake the journey will find themselves rewarded with experiences few travelers can claim. Whether diving among pristine reefs, witnessing nesting turtles, or simply connecting with a way of life largely unchanged by modern pressures, these islands offer something increasingly rare in our world - a genuine hidden paradise.
Isole Al Hillaniyat Islands are known for their pristine marine ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. They feature vibrant coral reefs, important turtle nesting grounds, and are home to a unique non-migratory population of Arabian Sea humpback whales.
Visitors can reach the islands by fishing boats from coastal towns like Hasik and Shuwaymiah, which takes about an hour in good weather. There's also an airstrip near Al Hallaniyah for limited flights, and a ferry service operated by the National Ferries Company.
The islands are home to various rare bird species, including Audubon's shearwater and Masked Booby. Marine life includes diverse coral species, sea turtles, dolphins, and humpback whales. The islands also support unique plant life across four distinct vegetation zones.
Yes, the islands contain pre-Islamic archeological sites, including ancient tombs, houses, and storage structures. These remnants provide insights into early human settlements in the region, potentially dating back to the Neolithic period.
The island community maintains a traditional way of life centered around fishing. They speak a unique dialect of Shehri and benefit from governmental support that helps preserve their traditional culture. The islands' isolation has created a close-knit community with deep familial ties.