Green Mountain gets greener

Times of Oman

10-05-2025

Muscat: A bold green vision is taking root high in the mountains of Oman. dusitD2 Naseem Resort in Al Jabal Al Akhdar has unveiled a unique sustainability initiative to plant 200 olive trees – each a living symbol of peace and renewal – transforming the 'Green Mountain' into an even greener, more meaningful retreat for guests and the environment alike.
Nestled over 2,000 metres above sea level, dusitD2 Naseem Resort is no stranger to crisp mountain air and immersive eco-experiences. But its latest initiative goes beyond luxury and landscape – it's about legacy.
In a pioneering move to blend sustainability with guest participation, the resort has launched an 'Own an Olive Tree' programme, inviting visitors to adopt olive trees for a donation. Each tree will carry the name of its donor, who will also receive a bottle of olive oil every year for five years.
'This mountain is called Al Jabal Al Akhdar, which literally means 'The Green Mountain',' said Jagdeip Thakral, General Manager of dusitD2 Naseem Resort. 'Our vision is to honour that name not just in spirit, but in action – by making it even greener through this meaningful initiative.'
A symbol of peace and personal legacy
The olive tree has long been a universal symbol of peace and harmony. Thakral believes that empowering guests to personally 'own' such a tree will deepen their connection to the land and to the values of sustainability.
'This is more than just planting trees – it's about planting hope, peace and purpose,' Thakral said. 'Each tree will serve as a reminder that even as a traveller, you can leave behind something lasting and beautiful.'
Donors will receive regular updates on their tree's growth and are welcome to visit the resort to check on it in person, take photos, and share their experience. Guests who contribute larger donations will also enjoy added perks – including complimentary stays or wellness experiences.
'The idea is to create emotional ownership,' Thakral added. 'You're not just a guest anymore – you're a guardian of the mountain.'
From olives to significant impact
The project builds upon the resort's existing grove of 37 olive trees, which currently yields around 600kg of olives annually. With 200 trees in place, the harvest is projected to exceed 4,000kg – a significant leap in both output and impact.
The initiative is part of Dusit Hotels & Resorts' global Tree of Life programme, which encourages sustainable action and eco-friendly guest engagement at each of its properties. The Jabal Akhdar project is one of its most ambitious to date.
'We're not just planting trees – we're cultivating a legacy,' said Thakral. 'We want our guests to leave a part of themselves here and return to see it thrive.'
Greening the grounds: More than just olives
The resort also plans to plant an additional 50 flowering and fruit-bearing trees, including bougainvillea, oleander, and the fragrant night queen, transforming the wadi that runs through the resort into a blossoming valley of colour and scent.
Large trees will be placed around concrete areas to improve shade and aesthetics, creating an all-season green environment throughout the property.
'These aren't just landscaping decisions – they're part of a larger wellness ecosystem,' Thakral said. 'The greenery, the scents, the colours – they all play a role in how our guests feel. Our goal is year-round shade, blooms, and life.'
When adventure meets wellness
Adding to its green goals, dusitD2 Naseem is launching Jabal Akhdar's first-ever padel court, offering guests the chance to play one of the world's fastest-growing sports at high altitude.
'At 2,000 metres above sea level, it's a court with a view – and a statement,' said Thakral. 'We're promoting an active, healthy lifestyle, and padel is the perfect blend of social fun and fitness. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, playing padel at this altitude is something truly unique.'
The court adds to the resort's 8,000 sqm adventure park, enhancing its reputation as a destination that combines wellness, play, and purpose in equal measure.
'We want to redefine what a mountain getaway can be,' Thakral added. 'Whether it's through wellness, adventure, or sustainability, our aim is to offer experiences that are fresh, engaging, and rooted in purpose.'
More to come
The resort is also working on developing a rose garden and offering eco-tours for guests to explore its green zones, from olive groves to fruit orchards.
'Our vision is to make dusitD2 Naseem not just a place to stay, but a destination where guests connect – with nature, with community, and with themselves,' Thakral said.