Mudhaibi – North Sharqiyah is gearing up to host its annual Grape Festival in Mudhaibi on June 16 and 17, with organisers expecting more than 10,000 visitors from across Oman and abroad.

The festival, which has emerged as a key platform for promoting agricultural investment and innovation, will showcase more than 50 varieties of local and imported grapes, highlighting the rapid growth and diversification of grape cultivation in the sultanate.

Dr Qais bin Saif Al Maawali, Director of Agricultural Development in North Sharqiyah, said the grape harvest season has become an important contributor to Oman’s food security goals and agricultural diversification efforts.

He informed that the modern grape farm project in Ibra is expected to account for more than 35% of the country’s total grape cultivation area, with planted acreage projected to reach between 290 and 300 acres by the end of this year.

“The continued expansion of grape farming, supported by national agricultural development programmes, is encouraging farmers to invest in commercial agriculture and strengthening the sector’s contribution to the national economy,” Al Maawali said.

According to official figures, Oman currently has more than 220 acres under grape cultivation, producing around 1,100 tonnes annually. The crop meets approximately 4.6% of domestic demand and generates an estimated economic return of RO1.7mn.

Al Maawali noted that long-term projections point to significant growth, with grape cultivation expected to expand to nearly 1,000 acres by 2040 and generate an economic value exceeding RO5mn.

He said the festival serves as an important meeting point for farmers, investors and agricultural specialists, facilitating the exchange of expertise and encouraging investment in high-value crops.

More than 50 grape varieties are registered in North Sharqiyah alone, while successful cultivation of internationally recognised commercial varieties in several governorates has boosted interest in grape production and marketing for both local and export markets.