Tabseel season nears end; connects Omanis to their heritage
As the summer sun reaches its peak, the traditional 'Tabseel' season is coming to a close in many parts of Al Sharqiyah North and Al Sharqiyah South governorates. Over the past few weeks, communities have come together to harvest, boil and dry the semi-ripe dates of the Mabsali and Madloki — a cherished agricultural tradition that connects Omanis to their land and heritage.
Salim al Ghailani, a farmer from Jaalan Bani Bu Hassan, describes the season as more than just agricultural labour: 'Tabseel is not simply about harvesting — it's a celebration. The entire family participates, from early morning until sunset. It's a tradition we inherited, and we're proud to pass it on despite the hard work.'
The season has drawn in various wilayats including Wadi Bani Khalid, Al Kamil W'al Wafi and Jaalan Bani Bu Hassan.
Wadi Bani Khalid is known for boiling dates from the Madloki, Bonaranja, Abu Matrhi and Hilali palm varieties.
Meanwhile, Siq village in Al Kamil W'al Wafi stands out for producing high-quality Madloki dates — considered among the finest in Oman.
Fatima al Marzouqi, a resident of Siq, said: 'I grew up watching and helping my family during the Tabseel season. We put special care into Madloki because their dates are in high demand across Oman.' Despite the sweltering heat and labour intensity, the season is filled with joy and family bonding.
Extended families gather around the palms, share meals and laugh together while working side by side.
One of the tools commonly used is the 'mirad rope', which helps lower the heavy date bunches safely from the top of the palm.
Mohammed al Sawai, a young farmer from Jaalan Bani Bu Hassan, reflects: 'Even in today's modern era, this tradition survives with its charm.' In the past, Mabsali dates were transported by camel caravans from interior villages to Sur, from where they were exported to India.
Today, the trade is much faster. Local traders buy directly from farmers — often paying cash on the spot — and later resell to specialised companies for distribution inside and outside Oman.
Khalid al Farsi, from the Wilayat of Sur, explained: 'Omani dates are in steady demand for their unique taste and quality. With modern logistics, it's become more efficient for farmers and traders alike.' The Al Sharqiyah South Agricultural and Fisheries Wealth Department has confirmed that the Mabsali palm harvest is one of the most significant agricultural events in the governorate.
According to recent ministry statistics, Jaalan Bani Bu Hassan alone has 188,502 palm trees, producing around 12,243 tonnes of dates annually.
Tabseel plays a critical role in supporting the agricultural economy. It helps farmers offset the costs of palm tree care and serves as a source of income for rural families.
Saud al Mukhaini, a resident of Al Kamil W'al Wafi, stated: 'Tabseel is about our relationship with the land. Every palm we climb, every bunch we pick, is a story. It's about pride and purpose.'
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