Oman faces significant hurdles in agricultural sustainability due to its arid climate, where about 90% of the land is classified as arid or semi-arid and only 0.4% is arable. Water availability has plummeted, with per capita resources falling from 2,000 cubic meters in 1990 to under 1,000 cubic meters today. Despite these challenges, Oman is taking commendable steps toward sustainable farming practices that protect the environment, enhance food security, and strengthen the economy.
In line with these efforts, the recently launched Food Security Lab 2024 aims to stimulate local and foreign investment in food security sectors, aligning with Oman Vision 2040. This initiative emphasises digital transformation through the ‘Tharwat’ platform, offering ten electronic services, and the app ‘Salal.’ Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources (MAFWR) is advancing a new onion cultivation project over 20 hectares in Dhank to boost local production and reduce reliance on imports. By formalising agreements with local agricultural companies and providing both technical and financial support, Oman seeks to strengthen food security while enhancing agricultural sustainability.
To further promote sustainable agricultural practices, MAFWR is actively investing in research and development aimed at reducing environmental impacts. A key innovation is the widespread use of drip irrigation, which delivers water directly to plant roots, reducing waste and ensuring optimal moisture levels. Government initiatives continue to promote efficient water use in arid regions, helping farmers make the best use of limited resources.
Farmers and agribusinesses are also diversifying crops to combat the risks of monoculture, introducing various fruits, vegetables, and herbs. This diversification improves soil health, increases pest resilience, and boosts income potential. Practices like crop rotation and intercropping offer both economic and ecological benefits, supporting a sustainable agricultural landscape.
Organic farming is gaining traction as consumers seek healthier options, prompting growers to move away from synthetic fertilisers and pesticides in favour of natural alternatives. The establishment of organic certification bodies encourages this shift, fostering a growing market for organic products. Another promising practice, agroforestry, which integrates trees into farming systems, is also emerging as a beneficial approach. It improves soil quality, enhances carbon sequestration, and provides additional income through timber and fruit production. Moreover, these systems act as windbreaks, protecting crops from harsh winds and reducing soil erosion.
The introduction of modern technologies is among the most significant advancements in Oman’s agricultural sector, aiming to reduce the consumption of water and fertilisers. Precision agriculture tools, such as drones and sensors, are being employed to monitor soil health, moisture levels, and crop growth. Techniques like soilless cultivation and aquaponics are becoming crucial in addressing the nation’s water scarcity issues, allowing farmers and agribusinesses to maximise crop yields while using minimal resources. The Al Najd Agricultural City initiative serves as a research and innovation hub, crucial for advancing sustainable agriculture and economic diversification. MAFWR’s R&D efforts have developed new crop varieties and pest-resistant plants tailored to Oman’s harsh conditions.
Despite these promising innovations, Oman’s agricultural sector still faces numerous challenges. Water scarcity remains the most pressing issue, compounded by limited freshwater resources and the over-extraction of groundwater, which has led to declining water tables. Soil degradation is another critical concern, exacerbated by unsustainable farming practices and climate change. The use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides can deplete soil nutrients and lead to contamination. Raising awareness among growers about soil health and promoting practices such as organic farming and cover cropping are vital for reversing this trend.
Furthermore, the high cost of adopting advanced agricultural technologies, such as climate-controlled greenhouses, is a barrier for small and medium-sized farmers. Oman’s extreme temperatures and low precipitation levels make traditional farming methods difficult to sustain without substantial investment in infrastructure. While the government has introduced subsidies and incentives to encourage the adoption of water-efficient technologies, there is a need for more extensive training programs to educate farmers and agribusinesses about sustainable practices.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) supports Oman’s sustainable agriculture initiatives, including Oman Sustainability Week (OSW), launched in 2022. The country has received international recognition, ranking first among GCC nations and fourth among Arab countries in the 2022 UN Sustainable Development Report, reflecting its commitment to sustainable development. These achievements showcase Oman’s dedication to a resilient agricultural sector.
By collaborating with local and international organisations, Oman aims to transform its agricultural landscape for economic viability and environmental responsibility.
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