Salalah – The khareef season in Dhofar is driving increased demand for agricultural, livestock and fish products as large numbers of tourists visit the governorate.

Rashid bin Saeed al Ghafri, Director General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in the governorate, highlighted the economic impact of the season on various sectors. The influx of tourists has created opportunities to market local products, benefiting the agricultural, livestock and fisheries sectors.

“There is noticeable demand for agricultural, livestock and fish products, which are essential for tourists and residents,” Ghafri said.

He informed that the directorate, in cooperation with relevant authorities, is ensuring the availability and quality of food commodities, including those entering through import ports.

Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR) is actively encouraging investment in these sectors. Significant investments are being made in the najd agricultural region, with over 35 investment opportunities currently being offered in the agricultural, livestock, fisheries and water sectors.

Ghafri emphasised Dhofar’s geographical and environmental diversity, which supports the production of various crops.

A turmeric localisation project has benefited over 76 families, producing more than 40 tonnes last year. Preparations are also underway for ginger cultivation this khareef.

Coconut products, particularly coconut juice (mashli), are popular among tourists, leading to increased demand. Dhofar has more than 170,000 coconut trees, with plans to add 50,000 more through the Salalah Gardens Company project. MAFWR has temporarily suspended the export of coconut fruits to meet local demand during khareef.

Fish production in Dhofar is estimated at over 103,000 tonnes annually, valued at around RO52.5mn. This production not only meets local needs but also supplies both local and foreign markets. The number of fishermen in the governorate stands at 12,687, operating 5,094 boats, 83 artisanal fishing vessels and 82 coastal fishing vessels.

MAFWR has introduced investment opportunities in the fisheries sector, including a wholesale market in the fishing port of Raysut and a fish collection project in Shuwaimiyah. Fish farming projects, including abalone farming, are currently underway with production starting soon.

Several projects are being implemented to enhance fish landing facilities, including ports in Hadbin and Hasik, costing RO2.8mn and RO2.9mn respectively. Additionally, an administrative building for fisheries operations in the Hallaniyat Islands is being set up at a cost of over RO2mn.

Dhofar’s livestock sector, which constitutes 60% of the sultanate’s camel and cow population, is receiving significant attention with various development projects.