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Muscat Daily
05-07-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Rummana returns to Jabal Akhdar to boost sustainable agritourism
Jabal Akhdar – The third edition of Rummana, an event blending agritourism with cultural and family-oriented activities, has kicked off at Janaen Farm in the Saih Qatnah area of Jabal Akhdar. Running from July 4 to September 27, the festival forms part of broader efforts to promote sustainable tourism in Oman's interior regions. Jointly organised by Teepee Oman and Janaen Agricultural Tourism Development Company, the event aims to highlight the agricultural and cultural assets of Jabal Akhdar, while supporting local communities and encouraging environmentally conscious tourism. Rummana coincides with the ongoing Jabal Akhdar Festival and includes a range of interactive activities. Visitors can engage in seasonal fruit picking (pomegranates, figs, pears etc), attend workshops and enjoy performances in an open-air theatre. The festival also features family competitions and a children's zone with games and a miniature car racing track. A central feature of the event is a farmers' market where fresh local produce is sold in a traditional setting. The market includes Al Munadah, a locally inspired auction activity that reflects the community's cooperative traditions. Food stalls and cafés serve Omani and international dishes, adding to the visitor experience. The festival has grown steadily since its inception. Last year's edition attracted over 51,000 visitors, supported 44 small and medium enterprises, and recorded sales of more than 10,000kg of produce from Jabal Akhdar. Organisers aim to build on this momentum to further boost the local economy and strengthen supply chains tied to agriculture and tourism. Rummana 2025 is supported by Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Omran Group, Dakhliyah Governor's Office, and several private sector partners. The event is part of ongoing efforts to position Jabal Akhdar as a model for sustainable tourism in the region.
Muscat Daily
01-06-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Eid habtas boost trade and traditions of Oman
Muscat – Eid al Adha habtas (traditional markets) have opened across several governorates in Oman, with a surge in commercial activity and public participation. These markets, held in the days leading up to the festival, are showcasing the country's deep-rooted cultural, social and commercial practices. In North Sharqiyah, villages are witnessing brisk trade, especially in Ibra, where evening habta gatherings are drawing large crowds. Open markets and consumer tents have become popular venues, creating a festive atmosphere while contributing to local trade. 'Markets in Sinaw are seeing exceptional commercial activity with the launch of the Eid al Adha habta. There's a strong turnout of shoppers and all necessities are readily available, especially in the livestock market, which is buzzing with activity ahead of the festival,' said Salem al Siyabi from the wilayat of Sinaw. For livestock breeders, the season presents a prime opportunity. Ahmed al Balushi from Suwaiq noted that the demands for sheep, cows and camels are high. 'The habta season presents a lucrative opportunity for breeders to sell their livestock through 'Al Munadah', a traditional bidding process that adds excitement to the sales.' Children are also having a noticeable presence at these markets, dressed in traditional Omani attire and enjoying toys, sweets and nuts. 'The habta truly captures the essence of our customs and traditions passed down through generations,' Balushi added. In North Batinah, merchant Abdullah al Wahaibi highlighted that the seventh day of Dhu al Hijjah typically marks the peak of the habta, as residents purchase Eid essentials such as Omani daggers, men's canes and traditional jewellery. 'These events help showcase local products, support small businesses and promote cultural continuity,' he said. In South Batinah, Nakhal Municipality has ramped up activities in villages and tourist areas ahead of Eid. Meanwhile, in Dakhliyah, preparations are under way with a focus on public hygiene, organising habta markets and livestock souqs, and holding traditional events across the governorate. Municipalities across the country are also prioritising health and safety, preparing slaughterhouses and conducting food safety inspections. Food and Health Control and Licensing departments are ensuring that hygiene standards are met in establishments handling food. To support small businesses and entrepreneurs, the Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development is holding Eid bazaars and product exhibitions in various governorates, promoting local crafts and productive families during the festive season.
