Muscat – Jabal Akhdar, a region in the lap of the Hajar Mountains in Dhakhliyah governorate, has come back to hit the headlines with a massive production of olive oil in 2022 valued at RO200,000.

Terming it a ‘remarkable achievement’ for Oman’s agriculture sector, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources reported that the mountainous region produced over 10,000 litres of olive oil in the 2022 agricultural season.

‘This substantial yield, valued at around RO200,000, marks a significant milestone for the region’s olive cultivation,’ the ministry noted.

Dr Abdul Aziz bin Mansour al Shanfari, Director General of Agriculture and Water Resources in Dakhliyah governorate, said that the area under olive cultivation in Jabal Akhdar expanded to over 40 hectares, with over 20,000 fruit bearing trees grown.

“This growth is a testament to the region’s commitment to agricultural development and sustainability.”

Various methods have been employed in extracting olive oil, and the traditional approach was the most notable one, Shanfari informed.

“This method preserves the oil’s flavour and nutritional benefits, contributing to the high consumer confidence in Jabal Akhdar’s olive oil.”

Centrifugation, another method, is noted for its efficiency and speed. The choice of extraction method hinges on the local needs, producers’ preferences, and the desired quality standards.

The high prices of Jabal Akhdar’s olive oil, the Director General said is attributed to its purity, organic nature, and authenticity. “The growing production is expected to boost farmers’ incomes in the coming seasons,” he added.

Jabal Akhdar is not only known for its olive oil but also for other olive-based products, including soaps and skincare items. There is also a movement towards utilising olive waste for producing charcoal, organic fertilisers, and household products, which promises to enrich the local market.

The ministry is actively involved in providing development and extension services to further increase olive cultivation and develop olive-linked industries in and around Jabal Akhdar.