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This Ministerial Decision is composed of 10 articles. Coastal setbacks are defined as verges free of construction development along the Omani Coast (art. 1). Setback limits along the coasts are measured from the mean high water mark (art. 5). These limits vary according to the coastal environment: natural coasts characterized by scenic views including high cliffs and rocky peaks have a setback of 300m; sandy beaches and coves have a setback of 150m; and beaches where construction developments have limited environmental impact have a setback of 50m (art. 7). The Ministry of Housing shall undertake planning studies for coastal setbacks in coordination with the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (art. 2). Permits for establishing any tourist projects along the coasts are not allowed unless the required planning studies are carried out to ensure the possibility of providing the public utilities necessary for the project, as well as the conservation of environment and aesthetic aspects of the project location (art. 5).
