Muscat – An Omani olive oil brand produced in Jabal Akhdar has won three gold medals at leading international extra virgin olive oil competitions, marking a milestone for the country’s growing premium food industry.

The Olio brand claimed top honours at the Abu Dhabi International Olive Oil Competition, the Geneva European International Olive Oil Competition, and the Scandinavian International Olive Oil Competition, three of the world’s most recognised contests for extra virgin olive oil quality.

The awards highlight the increasing international recognition of Omani olive oil and reinforce its ability to compete with established producers in global markets.

Ghanim bin Salem Al Thani, CEO of Al Fawah Perfumes which owns Olio, said the awards reflect the exceptional characteristics of olive oil produced in Jabal Akhdar, where the combination of high altitude, cool temperatures and significant differences between day and night temperatures creates ideal growing conditions.

He said the slower ripening process allows olives to develop richer flavours and higher concentrations of natural phenolic compounds, while the region’s clean environment and low pest levels further enhance fruit quality.

According to Al Thani, the oil has an acidity level of about 0.1%, placing it firmly within the extra virgin category and indicating high quality. It is also rich in natural antioxidants and has a balanced flavour profile.

He said maintaining quality begins with harvesting olives at optimum ripeness before transporting them to the mill within 24 hours. The oil is extracted using cold-press technology at temperatures below 27°C to preserve its nutritional value and natural characteristics.

Following extraction, the oil is stored in food-grade stainless steel tanks away from heat, light and oxygen. Nitrogen is injected into the containers before bottling to minimise oxidation, while opaque bottles are used to maintain freshness.

Al Thani said the Olio brand was established to market Jabal Akhdar olive oil under a trusted Omani label capable of competing internationally. The name is inspired by oleocanthal, a naturally occurring compound associated with the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil.

He acknowledged that one of the main challenges during the project’s early stages was building consumer confidence in a new local brand while demonstrating that Omani olive oil could meet the highest international standards.

The company currently markets its products locally and has attracted growing interest from visitors to Jabal Akhdar, with plans to expand into overseas markets. Al Thani said the international awards have strengthened confidence in Omani products and encouraged wider recognition of the country’s agricultural potential.

He also called on Omani entrepreneurs to invest in agriculture and food industries, stressing that innovation, strong branding and commitment to quality can enable locally made products to compete successfully on the global stage.