Thursday 29 / May / 2025
Manah: The production of honey, including both Sidr (jujube tree) honey and Samar (Acacia tree) varieties, in the Wilayat of Manah in A’Dakhiliyah Governorate for this season reached approximately 3 tonnes. The number of beekeepers in the wilayat exceeds 100, managing around 1,400 beehives.
Mohammed bin Hareb Al Bahlani, Director of the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources in the Wilayat of Manah, stated that honeybee gathering is a profession of great interest to broad segments of society in the wilayat and serves as a vital source of income for many families engaged in this profession. It contributes to supporting the national economy by meeting the local market's demand for various types of honey and promoting it both within and outside the Sultanate of Oman through participation in specialised festivals and events, he said.
He added that this year’s production, particularly of Samar (Acacia tree) honey, saw better yields compared to the previous year due to the availability of pasture and the absence of pests and diseases in the hives. This led to increased availability and a noticeable drop in prices for consumers.
Reflecting on his experience in local honey production, beekeeper Nasser bin Hamoud Al Busaidi noted that his journey with Omani honey gathering began 40 years ago, highlighting the challenges of collecting honey while traversing valleys and mountains.
He explained that transporting hives outside the wilayat is costly, though some beekeepers prefer it due to drought and high temperatures. This year, however, favourable conditions—such as limited rainfall and abundant Samar tree blossoms—resulted in good production. He further noted variations in the taste and quality of honey across Oman’s governorates due to higher coastal humidity compared to inland areas, despite bees requiring minimal humidity.
Additionally, he emphasised that beekeeping provides a stable and rewarding income for many, with prices remaining affordable, thereby adding value to the local economy. Effective marketing efforts, particularly among youth and through various communication channels, as well as participation in ongoing festivals and events, further contribute to this sector.
It is worth noting that the number of beekeepers in A’Dakhiliyah Governorate stands at approximately 1,639, with honey production last year (2024) reaching around 168 tonnes of Sidr (jujube tree) and Samar (Acacia tree) honey. This figure is expected to increase by the end of the current season.
