Oman’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources is advancing efforts to diversify the country’s agricultural production by promoting high-value cash crops tailored to the distinct conditions of its various governorates. In Dhofar Governorate, mountain agriculture is being positioned as a key growth sector thanks to its favorable climate and environment suited for premium crops, notably Arabica coffee.

The Arabica coffee initiative, led by Eng Radhwan bin Abdullah al Ibrahim, Director of the Agricultural Development Department in Dhofar, and the project manager, aims to capitalize on the region’s natural resources to establish a sustainable and lucrative crop for farmers and investors alike. The initiative is viewed as a strategic effort to boost rural incomes, enhance food security, and open new investment opportunities.

The project’s first phase launched in October 2025, coinciding with Omani Agriculture Day. It provides farmers with seedlings, technical support, training on modern agricultural methods, and assistance in installing water-efficient irrigation systems to promote sustainability. The initiative builds on previous efforts to cultivate turmeric and ginger in 2022 and 2023, marking an expansion into high-value mountain crops.

Trial cultivation in the Qairoon Hairiti area has already yielded promising results, particularly with the Adeni and Al Dawairi varieties of Arabica coffee. Encouraged by this success, the project initially engaged 30 farmers across the Salalah, Taqah, and Mirbat regions, with plans to broaden its reach within the governorate.

Officials describe the Arabica coffee project as a replicable model for future farming ventures that balance economic returns with environmental stewardship, signaling a shift in Oman’s agricultural landscape toward more diversified and sustainable production.