MUSCAT: Off the coast of Muscat lies a small, uninhabited island often referred to as Al Hallaniyah — part of Oman’s remote Khuriya Muriya Islands. Despite its ominous nickname, this island is a haven for rare wildlife and seabirds, offering a glimpse of untouched nature where few people ever set foot.
Historically, Al Hallaniyah served as a refuge for sailors navigating the Arabian Sea. Its isolated coves provided shelter from storms, fresh water from seasonal springs, and a safe spot to make repairs. Over time, local folklore gave it the “Island of the Dead” moniker, inspired by shipwrecks and the sense of mystery surrounding its rugged cliffs.
Today, the island remains uninhabited but is of scientific interest for its unique biodiversity, including endangered sea turtles, nesting seabirds, and rare marine life in surrounding waters. Its isolation has helped preserve habitats that have vanished elsewhere along the coast.
For Oman, Al Hallaniyah stands as both a historical landmark and a natural sanctuary — a place where the past and present meet in a stark but beautiful setting, showing how even the most remote corners of the country hold stories of survival, trade, and nature’s resilience.
