Oman’s agricultural sector is undergoing a significant transformation through innovation and technology, in line with the goals of Oman Vision 2040. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources is spearheading efforts to enhance food security and environmental sustainability by promoting smart farming, biotechnology, artificial intelligence and modern irrigation techniques.
Smart resource management systems, vertical farming, precision agriculture and digital tools are being adopted to improve productivity, reduce waste and ensure sustainable food availability.
The Ministry supports small-scale innovative projects through technical and financial assistance, while funding initiatives and awareness programmes are provided via the Agricultural and Fisheries Development Fund and digital platforms. Collaboration with universities, research centres and international organisations such as FAO and AOAD further strengthens these efforts.
Emphasis is being placed on integrating technology in agriculture, including IoT-based smart farms, disease prediction and crop improvement. Legislation such as the Intellectual Property Protection Law encourages innovators to register advancements in agricultural technologies, biofertilisers and irrigation systems. Agricultural startups benefit from tax exemptions and customs duty waivers on modern technologies, while renewable energy integration and organic farming are promoted to support sustainable production.
Recent research from Sultan Qaboos University highlights the potential of the Harmal plant (Peganum harmala) in combating crop diseases.
Supervised by Buthaina bint Harith al Busaidyah and Dhia bint Ibrahim al Rashdiyah, the study found that Harmal extracts inhibit harmful fungi, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. The research team developed a practical solution derived from Harmal that demonstrates high efficacy against pathogenic fungi, offering an environmentally safe option for Omani farmers.
Innovative companies are also contributing to sustainable farming solutions.
Hawra bint Rashid al Omraniyah from the University of Al Sharqiyah showcased AZDARA, a company producing organic pesticides and fertilisers in biodegradable smart soil packs. These packs nourish the soil as they decompose and include natural products derived from animal shampoo, providing safe pest control while improving animal health.
Omar bin Fathil al Daree from UTAS Ibri introduced the Smart Agriculture Cultivator (SAG 1), a sensor-equipped device that analyses soil conditions in real time, measuring moisture, pH, temperature and nutrient levels. The system alerts users to issues such as salinity or nutrient deficiencies and removes impurities like stones, weeds and plastics automatically, improving both efficiency and soil health.
The Ministry stressed that investing in agricultural innovation is a strategic necessity to secure a food-safe future amidst global challenges like climate change, resource scarcity and population growth. By encouraging private-sector partnerships, promoting research and supporting startup initiatives, Oman is building a resilient and sustainable agricultural framework.
Through projects like smart irrigation, organic farming and biotechnology research, Oman aims to transform its food system, promote environmental stewardship and strengthen the green economy. The combination of innovation, legislation and private-sector collaboration positions the Sultanate of Oman as a regional leader in sustainable agriculture and food security. — ONA
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