Muscat – Dhahirah governorate has recorded a sharp decline in red palm weevil infestations, marking a significant step in protecting its date palm plantations, according to official data for 2025.

Figures released by the Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Dhahirah showed that infestations fell to 3,126 cases in 2025, down from 23,106 in 2022. The reduction of nearly 20,000 cases over four years represents an overall decrease of about 86.5%, reflecting the impact of preventive and treatment programmes implemented across the governorate.

The decline is regarded as a major achievement in safeguarding date palms, a key agricultural resource in the region. Authorities attributed the results to sustained control campaigns, improved monitoring and expanded field operations targeting affected farms and villages.

Monthly data for 2025 indicated fluctuations in infestation levels. January recorded the highest number of cases at 403, followed by February with 383. The lowest number was registered in June, when infestations fell to 181 cases.

Officials noted that the reduction in infestations was accompanied by a noticeable drop in the number of insects captured during the year. This trend was linked to the expansion of the Zero Villages Initiative, intensified awareness campaigns and stronger field follow-up by agricultural and water resources departments.

The directorate said efforts to contain the red palm weevil would continue, with a focus on early detection, farmer engagement and preventive measures to ensure long-term protection of date palm farms across the governorate.