Muscat – The use of smart agriculture technologies is being expanded in Oman to enhance food security and resource sustainability in line with Vision 2040 objectives, according to officials at   Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR).

Modern techniques – including hydroponics, smart irrigation systems and drones – are increasingly being adopted across the country, although officials say these are still in the early stages of implementation in the sector and largely focused on research initiatives and private sector investments.

Badriya Saif al Hosni, Head of Smart Agriculture Department in the Directorate General of Agriculture and Livestock Research, said the strategy aims to integrate technology into traditional agricultural systems.

“One of the most prominent features of the ministry’s strategy is digital transformation of services and adoption of modern technologies to increase crop productivity and reduce costs,” she said. “We are also working to empower farmers with smart agriculture tools.”

Badriya informed that projects underway include aquaponics systems, precision agriculture based on climate data, drone-assisted pest control and pollination, and solar-powered greenhouses. Smart irrigation systems, which use soil moisture sensors, are also being deployed to improve efficiency.

Training is a core part of the government’s approach. “The ministry offers specialised training courses for farmers on drone operations, soilless farming and the use of mobile apps in farm management,” she said.

Pilot projects have been introduced across governorates to support the transfer of knowledge to small-scale farmers.

Badriya, however, acknowledged that challenges remain. “One of the most prominent challenges is the disparity in digital infrastructure across governorates, along with the need to raise technical awareness among some farmers.”

High operating and maintenance costs also limit adoption in certain areas.

To support adoption, the government is allocating annual budgets and encouraging partnerships with the private sector. Development Bank offers soft loans to small farmers to purchase equipment, while agricultural associations help facilitate access to shared smart farming technologies.

Badriya said MAFWR continues to be committed to balancing innovation with tradition. “We are integrating modern technologies within systems like aflaj to preserve heritage while improving efficiency.”