Yellow bounty of nature

Ample crop from Mabsali date palm trees are collected as the Tabseel season gets underway in the Wilayat of Bidiyah. Many of the Sultanate of Oman’s governorates are witnessing the harvest and Tabseel season of Al Mabsali palm trees and other varieties. ‘Al Mabsali’ dates are cooked after their colour turns yellow. Following the cooking stage, the dates are drained and spread across specially prepared surfaces under direct sunlight. Over several days, they gradually dry and harden, developing their distinctive colour and texture. Beyond its agricultural significance, the tabseel season serves as a social and cultural event that strengthens community bonds. Families participate in every stage of the process, from harvesting and transportation to drying and storage. The cooperative nature of the work reflects longstanding traditions of mutual support and collective labour that have characterised Omani agricultural communities for generations. — Photo by Abdulraheem al Rawahi