In line with its Vision 2040 goals, the Sultanate of Oman is accelerating efforts to modernize agriculture through the adoption of smart technologies that boost productivity, conserve resources, and preserve the nation’s rich agricultural heritage. With food security and environmental sustainability at the forefront, Oman’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources is investing in digital transformation as a pillar of its agricultural strategy.
At the heart of this transition is the Smart Agriculture Department at the Directorate General of Agricultural and Livestock Research. According to Eng. Badriya Saif Al-Hosni, Head of the Department, “a key feature of the ministry’s strategy is the adoption of advanced technologies and digital services that empower farmers, reduce production costs, and optimize land and water use.”
Smart agriculture applications in Oman are steadily gaining ground, though they remain largely concentrated in pilot research initiatives and private sector-backed investment projects. Technologies such as soilless farming (hydroponics), aquaponics, drone-based crop monitoring, smart irrigation systems, and climate-driven precision agriculture are increasingly being introduced into the farming landscape. Drones are now being used for pest control, palm pollination, and aerial mapping, while solar-powered greenhouses offer sustainable alternatives for protected farming.
Al-Hosni highlights the importance of balancing innovation with tradition. Gene banks are being used to conserve local plant varieties, while historic aflaj irrigation systems are being upgraded with digital controls—maintaining their cultural significance while enhancing water efficiency.
The Ministry has also prioritized capacity building through specialized training programs, equipping farmers with the skills to use mobile apps for farm management, operate drones, and manage hydroponic systems. These initiatives are backed by annual government budgets and partnerships with private investors aimed at expanding digital infrastructure in agriculture and creating an attractive environment for tech-driven agribusinesses.
Nonetheless, the path to widespread adoption is not without challenges. Variations in digital connectivity across governorates, limited awareness of advanced techniques among some farmers, and the high maintenance costs of smart systems remain key hurdles. To address these gaps, Oman’s Development Bank is offering soft loans to small and limited-income farmers, while agricultural cooperatives are helping promote collective access to modern equipment and knowledge.
Experts note that Oman’s progress in smart agriculture is not only transforming farming practices but also aligning with broader climate and food resilience goals. By integrating emerging technologies into its agricultural DNA, the Sultanate is laying the foundation for a greener, more productive future—anchored in innovation yet rooted in heritage.
Sources:
Arabian Daily: Smart Agriculture in Oman: Bridging Heritage and Technology
Times of Oman: Smart Agriculture Drives Oman’s Vision 2040 Goals for Food Security and Sustainability
