13 hours ago
Al Sharqiyah North grape fest highlights agricultural growth
MUSCAT: The Grape Festival in Al Sharqiyah North Governorate officially opened on Monday at Al Fursan Hall in Al Rawdah village, the Wilayat of Al Mudhaibi. Held under the auspices of Dr Saud bin Hamoud al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, the event was jointly organised by the ministry and the Office of the Governor. It brought together farmers, entrepreneurs, agricultural engineers, the Majlis Ash'shura representatives, shaikhs and dignitaries.
In his address, Governor Mahmoud al Thuhli praised the festival as a testament to successful collaboration between government bodies and the local community. He noted that since the inaugural event in 2023, grape cultivation in the governorate had expanded from 8 to 27 acres— a remarkable 238 per cent increase.
The 2024 edition builds on this momentum with a model grape farm project aiming to cultivate an additional 100 acres, raising the total to 127 acres. Estimated production is set at 635 tonnes, with economic returns expected to surpass RO 1 million. Six high-quality international grape varieties — renowned for storability and transportability — have been introduced to enhance global market competitiveness.
The festival aligns with 'Oman Vision 2040', promoting food security, supporting the agricultural sector, and fostering SME growth. It also aims to raise awareness about grape farming, encourage investment and create job opportunities through contract farming and agricultural associations.
Dr Saud al Habsi, in his opening speech, underscored the festival's role in empowering farmers and advancing local agricultural production. The first day featured a documentary on grape farming in Oman and a presentation by Dr Rashid al Yahyai of Sultan Qaboos University, emphasising the role of biotechnology and farmer-academic collaboration in sectoral growth.
On June 17, the festival continues with workshops and papers from agricultural bodies and banks. A special session will train women in grape-based food processing.
Last year's festival saw the sale of over 10,000 kg of grapes and 4,000 seedlings. This year, projections surpass 15,000 kg, showcasing more than 50 grape varieties, including Flame Seedless, Crimson Seedless, Autumn Royal, Princess, Red Globe and Summer Royal — suitable for fresh consumption, juice and raisins.
Participating institutions include Oman Agriculture Development Company, Oman Development Bank and Bank Dhofar, offering financial and marketing support alongside live grape-juicing demos.
Now an annual highlight, the festival strengthens collaboration between the government, private sector and community, helping to build a robust, sustainable agricultural ecosystem that enhances local economic growth and national food security.
