Oman’s plan to develop a $4.2 billion agricultural city in Saham, a town in the northern Batinah province, promises vital support for nearly 30,000 farmers in the region. The Saham Agricultural City will span 65 square kilometers, with 70 percent dedicated to agriculture and 30 percent to urban development. Project designs are complete, and construction is set to begin in early 2025.
The city will leverage advanced technologies like hydroponics, aeroponics, and fish farming to sustain 25,000 people annually, aiming to reduce Oman’s dependence on expensive food imports. In 2023, Oman’s food imports reached nearly $5.5 billion, a 5 percent increase from the previous year, with an average growth rate of 6 percent annually over the past five years.
Saham, known for its fertile land, faces challenges as the high cost of farming during scorching summer months forces many farmers to abandon their land. Rising temperatures necessitate controlled environments, such as air-cooled shelters and dehumidifiers, which significantly increase operational costs.
Farmers currently rely on aflaaj, ancient water reservoirs, but these systems are increasingly strained by rising water demand. Saham Agricultural City will offer modern solutions, including automated irrigation, cooling systems, and shade, to support farming in hot climates. The city will be divided into plots distributed free to licensed farmers, with subsidized water and electricity.
While Saham is the first location for this crucial project, the government may expand the initiative nationwide to enhance food security. Although the timeline for completion is uncertain, the project provides hope for farmers seeking a lifeline.
In addition to modernizing agriculture through technology, the government will need to re-educate farmers currently using traditional methods. The harsh climate not only limits productivity but also affects the freshness of crops, often leading consumers to prefer imported produce over local offerings.
Saham Agricultural City aims to improve the quality and freshness of local produce, thereby increasing farmers’ market share and profits. The hope is that more agricultural cities will be established across Oman in the coming decade to preserve local farming traditions and secure the nation’s food future.
