Overview
The livestock sector in Oman represents a significant component of the Sultanate’s economic landscape. As Oman pursues its Vision 2040 diversification agenda, this sector has attracted growing attention from policymakers, investors, and industry participants alike. This page provides a comprehensive analysis of livestock in Oman, covering market fundamentals, competitive dynamics, strategic alignment, and forward-looking investment considerations. Understanding the current state and trajectory of livestock is essential for stakeholders seeking to participate in Oman’s economic transformation.
Market Size & Growth
Oman’s agricultural sector contributes approximately 2 percent to GDP, with annual production value exceeding 700 million OMR. The Sultanate cultivates over 75,000 hectares of farmland, producing dates, vegetables, fruits, and fodder crops. Date palm cultivation is the dominant agricultural activity, with annual production exceeding 370,000 tonnes, making Oman one of the world’s top ten date producers. Livestock, including goats, cattle, and camels, contribute significantly to rural economies. The sector employs over 200,000 workers, predominantly in traditional farming, and is targeted for modernisation under Vision 2040.
Key Players
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources provides strategic direction and support services. The Oman Food Investment Holding Company operates across the food value chain from farming to processing and retail. Al Bashayer Meat Company and A’Saffa Foods are major poultry and meat producers. Date processing companies including Al Foah and National Dates Company handle packaging and export. Frankincense production is centred in the Dhofar Governorate, with cooperatives and private traders managing the supply chain. Agricultural research stations develop climate-adapted crop varieties and water-efficient farming techniques.
Vision 2040 Alignment
Agriculture and food security are strategic priorities under Oman Vision 2040, with goals to increase self-sufficiency, reduce water consumption per unit of output, and develop export-oriented agribusiness. The National Food Security Strategy promotes technology adoption, including protected cultivation, hydroponics, and precision irrigation. Organic farming is encouraged through certification support and market development programmes. Value chain development from farm to shelf aims to increase the share of processed agricultural products. Water resource management is critical, with desalination, treated wastewater reuse, and aquifer management programmes supporting sustainable production.
Investment Outlook
Agricultural investment opportunities include modern greenhouse facilities, food processing plants, livestock operations, and organic farming ventures. Protected cultivation projects benefit from government land allocation, water access, and technical support. Date processing and packaging represent value-addition opportunities, with strong export demand from Asian and European markets. Frankincense cultivation and product development offer niche, high-value opportunities leveraging Oman’s unique positioning. Livestock sector modernisation, including feedlot operations, dairy processing, and cold chain development, presents scalable investment options aligned with food security objectives.