Muscat:Fishermen throughout the various governorates of Oman have begun the fishing season for spiny lobster, locally known as "Sharkha." This season will continue until November 30, adhering to regulations designed to preserve fishery resources and ensure their sustainability.
According to Oman News Agency, spiny lobster ranks as the second most valuable fishery resource in Oman, following abalone. In 2025, the economic return from spiny lobster production reached approximately RO 4.255 million, with a production volume of about 645 tonnes. The average price per kilogram was around RO 6.601.
Al Wusta Governorate led in lobster production, yielding approximately 288.5 tonnes, which accounts for 44.7 percent of the total production. Dhofar Governorate followed with about 212.8 tonnes (33 percent), and South A'Sharqiyah Governorate produced around 135.7 tonnes (21.1 percent). Lobsters are available in limited quantities in the remaining governorates.
The market value of lobster production in Al Wusta Governorate was approximately RO 1.757 million, while in Dhofar Governorate, it was around RO 1.705 million. In South A'Sharqiyah Governorate, the market value reached approximately 775 thousand.
