Oman Agriculture Sector Guide
Agriculture in Oman faces unique challenges due to arid conditions, limited water resources, and extreme temperatures. Despite these constraints, the sector employs approximately 8 percent of the workforce and is central to Vision 2040’s food security objectives. Modern farming techniques, controlled environment agriculture, and efficient irrigation are transforming the sector.
Key Facts
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Agricultural Land | ~75,000 hectares |
| Date Palm Trees | ~8 million |
| Annual Date Production | ~370,000 tonnes |
| Food Self-Sufficiency Target | 50% by 2040 |
| Traditional Irrigation (Aflaj) | 4,112 systems |
Date Palm Sector
Oman is among the world’s top ten date producers with over 250 varieties cultivated. The Omani date industry produces premium varieties including Khalas, Fard, and Khunaizi for local consumption and export. The Oman Date Company operates processing and packaging facilities that meet international food safety standards.
Water Management
The traditional aflaj irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage feature, distributes water from mountain aquifers to agricultural communities. Modern irrigation combines drip systems and treated wastewater reuse to maximise water efficiency. Desalination plants increasingly supplement agricultural water supplies in coastal areas.
Controlled Environment Agriculture
Greenhouse and hydroponic farming is expanding rapidly, with facilities in Al Batinah and Al Dakhiliyah producing tomatoes, cucumbers, leafy greens, and herbs year-round. Solar-powered cooling systems reduce energy costs while maintaining optimal growing conditions.
Livestock and Poultry
The livestock sector includes cattle, goats, sheep, and camels, with traditional Bedouin pastoralism complemented by modern dairy and poultry operations. A’Saffa Foods operates one of the Gulf region’s largest integrated poultry operations, producing broiler chickens, eggs, and processed poultry products.
Investment Opportunities
Priority areas include protected agriculture technology, agricultural technology (agritech) solutions, food processing and packaging, organic farming, animal feed production, and agricultural logistics connecting farms with urban markets and export facilities.