Oman Steps Up Efforts to Protect Rangelands on Arab Agriculture Day

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, September 29, 2026

Oman highlighted the importance of sustainable rangeland management in livestock production and environmental conservation during Arab Agriculture Day, urging the use of advanced technologies to address climate and land degradation challenges. These efforts are part of Oman’s ongoing initiatives, including the Dhofar rangeland restoration programme, aimed at preserving natural resources and supporting rural communities amid increasing environmental pressures.

Muscat — Oman marked Arab Agriculture Day by emphasizing the critical role of sustainable rangeland management in supporting livestock production, conserving natural resources, and enhancing the resilience of rural and pastoral communities across the Arab region. This year’s observance focused on the sustainability of rangelands and their contribution to agricultural development.

Eng Mansour bin Hamoud al Wadhahi, Assistant Director-General for Agricultural Development at Oman’s Ministry of Agricultural, Fisheries and Water Resources, highlighted the need to protect key natural assets such as land, water, and vegetation to achieve sustainable agricultural progress. He stressed that challenges including climate change, irregular rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, water scarcity, land degradation, and unregulated grazing are placing increasing pressure on the country’s rangelands.

To address these issues, al Wadhahi called for the adoption of advanced technologies—such as remote sensing, geographic information systems, satellite imagery, and digital mapping—combined with climate data to better monitor rangeland conditions, identify vulnerable areas, and guide restoration and grazing management decisions.

Oman’s varied geography encompasses a range of rangeland and pastoral systems, from mountainous regions to deserts and seasonal grazing areas in Dhofar. The government has long acknowledged the importance of natural rangelands to livestock production, environmental sustainability, and the livelihoods of local communities. The 2003 Rangelands and Livestock Management Law, issued under Royal Decree No 8/2003, designates natural and cultivated rangelands as state-owned resources intended for public benefit.

Among the country’s ongoing efforts is the rangeland rest programme in Dhofar Governorate. Launched in December 2014 during the 16th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification in Riyadh, this initiative involves collaboration between national and international partners aimed at restoring and conserving rangelands.

These measures reflect Oman’s broader commitment to safeguarding its natural resources in the face of environmental challenges, supporting sustainable agriculture, and ensuring the viability of pastoral livelihoods for future generations.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.