An exclusive look at Dhofar's abalone farm
Published: 04:09 PM,Sep 04,2024 | EDITED : 08:09 PM,Sep 04,2024
An exclusive look at Dhofar's abalone farm
Beautiful Dhofar is attracting visitors by the thousands, and the number doubles, especially during the Khareef season. But despite the governorate's top attractions, there's one that people have to see and experience—the unique abalone production unit in Dhofar managed and operated by the Oman Aquaculture Company (OAC).
Abalone, a type of marine mollusc prized for its delicate and flavorful meat, is considered a luxury delicacy in many parts of the world. Known for its ear-shaped shell with an iridescent interior, abalone offers a unique culinary experience with its firm yet tender texture and subtle sweetness. However, the characteristics of abalone can vary significantly depending on its origin.
Abalone from different regions differs in size, growth rate, and flavour profile. For instance, Japanese abalone, particularly the Kuro Awabi, is renowned for its large size and pronounced umami flavour, a result of its seaweed-rich diet. In contrast, abalone from Australia, often characterized by a milder taste and firmer texture, reflects the distinct environmental conditions of its habitat. South African abalone, known for its concentrated flavour, benefits from the cold waters off the coast, while Oman's abalone, primarily found along the Dhofar coast, offers a unique taste shaped by the region's warm waters and specific marine environment.
The method of harvesting also plays a crucial role in the differences between abalone from various countries. Countries like Australia and New Zealand have developed sustainable abalone farming industries, ensuring a steady supply through controlled practices. On the other hand, Oman's abalone is largely harvested from the wild, with strict regulations governing the fishing season to prevent overexploitation. This reliance on wild harvesting in Oman affects both the availability and price of the product.
Abalone's high price is driven by several factors, including its scarcity, labour-intensive harvesting methods, slow growth rate, and high demand. With many abalone species now endangered due to overfishing, habitat loss, and illegal poaching, the limited supply has led to a surge in prices. The harvesting process, particularly for wild abalone, is labour-intensive, often requiring skilled divers to collect the molluscs from the ocean floor. Furthermore, abalone's slow growth rate, taking several years to reach marketable size, further limits supply. The high demand for abalone, especially in East Asian markets where it is considered a status symbol and a key ingredient in traditional dishes, exacerbates its scarcity and contributes to its premium pricing.
Cutting edge facility
Oman Aquaculture Company (OAC) is leading the charge in the sustainable cultivation of abalone, specifically the Haliotis mariae species, locally known as As'sufailah. Situated along the subtropical Arabian Sea coast in the Mirbat region of Dhofar, OAC has established an innovative and pioneering abalone farm, harnessing the natural abundance and ideal conditions of the area. The facility represents a significant step forward in Oman’s aquaculture industry, combining cutting-edge technology with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and community development.
The OAC farm is a state-of-the-art aquaculture facility that uses land-based systems to create a controlled environment for abalone cultivation. These systems are meticulously designed to replicate the natural habitat of Haliotis mariae, ensuring optimal growth and development of this unique and endemic species. By focusing on 100% organic farming methods, OAC is not only committed to producing high-quality abalone but also to preserving the environment in which these molluscs thrive.
OAC’s mission goes beyond just farming; the company is deeply invested in research, training, skills development, and knowledge transfer. By empowering the local team, OAC aims to foster a skilled workforce capable of sustaining the industry’s growth and long-term sustainability. The farm employs up to 55 individuals from the local community in Mirbat, contributing to the region's economic development while promoting a sense of belonging within the company.
Touring the abalone farm complex
A private tour of the abalone farm complex in Mirbat is eye-opening. The development of its current technology did not happen overnight. The research was already ongoing for nearly half a decade before a facility was created. There's also a lot of science involved, and one wrong move from the staff can have devastating results.
The tour of the abalone complex starts from the state-of-the-art hatchery, a facility dedicated to the careful breeding and nurturing of abalone from larvae to juvenile stages. Here, the team of experienced scientists and aquaculture experts meticulously monitors every aspect of the abalone's development, ensuring that each stage of growth is supported by optimal conditions. As you walk through the hatchery, you'll see how advanced techniques are employed to promote the survival and biodiversity of these remarkable marine creatures, reinforcing our commitment to the preservation of abalone populations and their natural habitats.
Continuing the tour, you will be ushered in at the Grow-Out Farm, where juvenile abalone mature into market-ready specimens. This stage of development is critical, and the team prioritizes using organic feed to nourish the abalone with the highest quality ingredients.
The result is a product that is not only healthy but also exceptional in taste and texture. As you observe the farm's operations, you'll notice the meticulous care of managing the abalone’s environment. OAC maintain strict control over water quality, temperature, and feeding regimes, ensuring that each abalone grows under ideal conditions. This attention to detail guarantees that the abalone meets the highest standards in size, flavour, and overall quality.
The facility is equipped with advanced monitoring systems, allowing the team to maintain precise control over the environmental factors essential for abalone growth. In this section, you will see how the team manages water quality parameters such as temperature, salinity, and oxygen levels, all of which are crucial for the abalone’s development. The integration of technology into the processes not only enhances product quality but also underscores their commitment to environmental sustainability.
One of OAC’s most impactful initiatives is its participation in the Reseeding Program, through which the company produces spats and juvenile abalone. These are then provided to the state hatchery as part of an agreement with the Ministry, contributing to the replenishment of Oman’s abalone population and ensuring its long-term viability. This initiative underscores OAC’s dedication to preserving the country’s depleting abalone wealth and supporting the sustainability of this valuable marine resource.
Why is it so expensive?
Abalone's high cost is a reflection of its rarity, the intensive effort required to harvest it, its slow growth, and the significant demand it commands globally. The differences between abalone from Oman and other producing countries highlight the impact of environmental conditions, harvesting practices, and regional culinary traditions on this prized delicacy.
Six to eight pieces of farm-produced abalone can fetch between OMR30 and OMR50 or more, depending on the bounty of production. Those that are found in the wild and whose harvest is very limited are even pricier.
The OAC team shared that they look forward to providing farm-grown abalone across the country and even in the GCC.
Alila Hinu Bay, a luxury resort, has partnered with OAC to offer an unparalleled abalone dining experience. Just 10 minutes from the abalone farm, Alila Hinu Bay’s award-winning restaurant, Seasalt, is the first to showcase the exceptional freshness of Omani abalone. Head Chef Prakash Sundaram has curated a menu that not only highlights the unique flavours of this local treasure but also pays homage to Oman’s rich coastal heritage.
At Seasalt, diners can indulge in a range of signature dishes crafted with finesse and creativity. The menu includes Abalone Sashimi, where the purity of the abalone’s flavour is delicately showcased, and Steamed Abalone, infused with aromatic herbs that enhance its natural taste. For those seeking a fusion of flavours, the Abalone Gratin with brown butter, garlic, and herbs presents a symphony of savoury notes, while the Abalone Green Curry, delicately prepared with Moringa Leaves, Mushroom, and Coconut, offers a tantalizing journey through Omani spices and aromas. Each dish is a testament to the culinary excellence and sustainability that define the Omani abalone experience.
As a partner in sustainability, the resort’s investment in abalone farming not only elevates the dining experience for its guests but also supports local communities by creating employment opportunities and contributing to the region’s sustainable tourism sector. This partnership with OAC ensures that the abalone served at Seasalt is not only of the highest quality but also represents a responsible approach to aquaculture that benefits both the environment and the local economy.
Abalone, a type of marine mollusc prized for its delicate and flavorful meat, is considered a luxury delicacy in many parts of the world. Known for its ear-shaped shell with an iridescent interior, abalone offers a unique culinary experience with its firm yet tender texture and subtle sweetness. However, the characteristics of abalone can vary significantly depending on its origin.
Abalone from different regions differs in size, growth rate, and flavour profile. For instance, Japanese abalone, particularly the Kuro Awabi, is renowned for its large size and pronounced umami flavour, a result of its seaweed-rich diet. In contrast, abalone from Australia, often characterized by a milder taste and firmer texture, reflects the distinct environmental conditions of its habitat. South African abalone, known for its concentrated flavour, benefits from the cold waters off the coast, while Oman's abalone, primarily found along the Dhofar coast, offers a unique taste shaped by the region's warm waters and specific marine environment.
The method of harvesting also plays a crucial role in the differences between abalone from various countries. Countries like Australia and New Zealand have developed sustainable abalone farming industries, ensuring a steady supply through controlled practices. On the other hand, Oman's abalone is largely harvested from the wild, with strict regulations governing the fishing season to prevent overexploitation. This reliance on wild harvesting in Oman affects both the availability and price of the product.
Abalone's high price is driven by several factors, including its scarcity, labour-intensive harvesting methods, slow growth rate, and high demand. With many abalone species now endangered due to overfishing, habitat loss, and illegal poaching, the limited supply has led to a surge in prices. The harvesting process, particularly for wild abalone, is labour-intensive, often requiring skilled divers to collect the molluscs from the ocean floor. Furthermore, abalone's slow growth rate, taking several years to reach marketable size, further limits supply. The high demand for abalone, especially in East Asian markets where it is considered a status symbol and a key ingredient in traditional dishes, exacerbates its scarcity and contributes to its premium pricing.
Cutting edge facility
Oman Aquaculture Company (OAC) is leading the charge in the sustainable cultivation of abalone, specifically the Haliotis mariae species, locally known as As'sufailah. Situated along the subtropical Arabian Sea coast in the Mirbat region of Dhofar, OAC has established an innovative and pioneering abalone farm, harnessing the natural abundance and ideal conditions of the area. The facility represents a significant step forward in Oman’s aquaculture industry, combining cutting-edge technology with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and community development.
The OAC farm is a state-of-the-art aquaculture facility that uses land-based systems to create a controlled environment for abalone cultivation. These systems are meticulously designed to replicate the natural habitat of Haliotis mariae, ensuring optimal growth and development of this unique and endemic species. By focusing on 100% organic farming methods, OAC is not only committed to producing high-quality abalone but also to preserving the environment in which these molluscs thrive.
OAC’s mission goes beyond just farming; the company is deeply invested in research, training, skills development, and knowledge transfer. By empowering the local team, OAC aims to foster a skilled workforce capable of sustaining the industry’s growth and long-term sustainability. The farm employs up to 55 individuals from the local community in Mirbat, contributing to the region's economic development while promoting a sense of belonging within the company.
Touring the abalone farm complex
A private tour of the abalone farm complex in Mirbat is eye-opening. The development of its current technology did not happen overnight. The research was already ongoing for nearly half a decade before a facility was created. There's also a lot of science involved, and one wrong move from the staff can have devastating results.
The tour of the abalone complex starts from the state-of-the-art hatchery, a facility dedicated to the careful breeding and nurturing of abalone from larvae to juvenile stages. Here, the team of experienced scientists and aquaculture experts meticulously monitors every aspect of the abalone's development, ensuring that each stage of growth is supported by optimal conditions. As you walk through the hatchery, you'll see how advanced techniques are employed to promote the survival and biodiversity of these remarkable marine creatures, reinforcing our commitment to the preservation of abalone populations and their natural habitats.
Continuing the tour, you will be ushered in at the Grow-Out Farm, where juvenile abalone mature into market-ready specimens. This stage of development is critical, and the team prioritizes using organic feed to nourish the abalone with the highest quality ingredients.
The result is a product that is not only healthy but also exceptional in taste and texture. As you observe the farm's operations, you'll notice the meticulous care of managing the abalone’s environment. OAC maintain strict control over water quality, temperature, and feeding regimes, ensuring that each abalone grows under ideal conditions. This attention to detail guarantees that the abalone meets the highest standards in size, flavour, and overall quality.
The facility is equipped with advanced monitoring systems, allowing the team to maintain precise control over the environmental factors essential for abalone growth. In this section, you will see how the team manages water quality parameters such as temperature, salinity, and oxygen levels, all of which are crucial for the abalone’s development. The integration of technology into the processes not only enhances product quality but also underscores their commitment to environmental sustainability.
One of OAC’s most impactful initiatives is its participation in the Reseeding Program, through which the company produces spats and juvenile abalone. These are then provided to the state hatchery as part of an agreement with the Ministry, contributing to the replenishment of Oman’s abalone population and ensuring its long-term viability. This initiative underscores OAC’s dedication to preserving the country’s depleting abalone wealth and supporting the sustainability of this valuable marine resource.
Why is it so expensive?
Abalone's high cost is a reflection of its rarity, the intensive effort required to harvest it, its slow growth, and the significant demand it commands globally. The differences between abalone from Oman and other producing countries highlight the impact of environmental conditions, harvesting practices, and regional culinary traditions on this prized delicacy.
Six to eight pieces of farm-produced abalone can fetch between OMR30 and OMR50 or more, depending on the bounty of production. Those that are found in the wild and whose harvest is very limited are even pricier.
The OAC team shared that they look forward to providing farm-grown abalone across the country and even in the GCC.
Alila Hinu Bay, a luxury resort, has partnered with OAC to offer an unparalleled abalone dining experience. Just 10 minutes from the abalone farm, Alila Hinu Bay’s award-winning restaurant, Seasalt, is the first to showcase the exceptional freshness of Omani abalone. Head Chef Prakash Sundaram has curated a menu that not only highlights the unique flavours of this local treasure but also pays homage to Oman’s rich coastal heritage.
At Seasalt, diners can indulge in a range of signature dishes crafted with finesse and creativity. The menu includes Abalone Sashimi, where the purity of the abalone’s flavour is delicately showcased, and Steamed Abalone, infused with aromatic herbs that enhance its natural taste. For those seeking a fusion of flavours, the Abalone Gratin with brown butter, garlic, and herbs presents a symphony of savoury notes, while the Abalone Green Curry, delicately prepared with Moringa Leaves, Mushroom, and Coconut, offers a tantalizing journey through Omani spices and aromas. Each dish is a testament to the culinary excellence and sustainability that define the Omani abalone experience.
As a partner in sustainability, the resort’s investment in abalone farming not only elevates the dining experience for its guests but also supports local communities by creating employment opportunities and contributing to the region’s sustainable tourism sector. This partnership with OAC ensures that the abalone served at Seasalt is not only of the highest quality but also represents a responsible approach to aquaculture that benefits both the environment and the local economy.