MUSCAT – Covering an area of over 267,000 square meters and with an investment exceeding RO 446,000, the project began its first phase by planting 50,000 banana seedlings of premium varieties, including William, G9, and improved strains such as Razat. Plans are underway to plant an additional 80,000 seedlings in the coming years, in line with the project’s phased implementation.

The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, supporting Oman’s agricultural sector and contributing to the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, particularly in diversifying food sources.

Engineer Salim bin Saif Al Hatmi, project supervisor, told the Oman News Agency that the first phase currently produces 50 tons per month, with projections to reach 800 tons annually by 2027 and ultimately 1,400 tons per year once the project reaches full capacity. He pointed out that the project uses best agricultural practices adapted to Omani climatic conditions to ensure high-quality yields.
Banana seedlings are sourced from tissue culture laboratories in Oman, with quality seedlings reserved about eight months before the agricultural season. Distribution of bananas is handled through commercial centres, central markets, and specialized companies, supported by ripening warehouses and efficient supply chains from farms to markets.

Engineer Al Hatmi highlighted the continuous support from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, including feasibility studies, land allocation, soil and water assessments, and ongoing technical supervision at every stage of the project, ensuring smooth implementation from planting to production and marketing.