Sunday 21 / June / 2026
Salalah: The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources signed a strategic partnership with Amouage Perfumes, backed by the Agricultural and Fisheries Development Fund, to implement a sustainable and responsible harvesting project for frankincense trees "Luban" in Wadi Gazelle, Dhofar Governorate. The initiative aims to protect this unique natural resource, enhance its economic value and reinforce Oman’s position as a global source of sustainable natural ingredients.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Saud bin Hamoud Al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources and Sayyid Khalid bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Amouage Perfumes Chairman in the presence of officials and specialists.
The project will apply an integrated sustainable harvesting model across approximately 1,500 acres (6 square kilometres) in Wadi Gazelle, following international standards for sustainability, transparency and responsible harvesting. It includes field surveys, quality monitoring and production assessment to ensure tree preservation and resource sustainability for future generations.
Dr. Saud bin Hamoud Al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources said the partnership marks an important step towards developing Oman’s frankincense industry on sustainable foundations that balance resource conservation with economic returns, aligning with Oman Vision 2040’s goals of economic diversification and investment in local resources.
The project exemplifies public‑private sector integration, supported by the Agriculture and Fisheries Development Fund’s role in financing initiatives that enhance the agricultural and fisheries sectors’ sustainability and added value.
Sayyid Khalid bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Amouage Perfumes Chairman said the company selects Oman’s finest natural ingredients in a way that respects their nature and preserves their value, enabling global audiences to discover the richness of Oman’s environment and agricultural resources.
The project includes capacity‑building for the local community through training and employment in harvesting and field monitoring, overseen by international experts, creating sustainable jobs and strengthening community participation in the frankincense sector. It will also develop specialised technical databases documenting production and quality levels to support future planning and investment decisions.
The project is expected to enhance the Omani frankincense value chain, improve product quality and expand global marketing opportunities, while supporting local natural‑resource‑based industries. Future plans include processing Wadi Gazelle frankincense at Ayn Dawkah factory and visitor centre after its opening, converting it into essential oils for luxury perfumes.
The project builds on Oman’s successes in sustainable frankincense harvesting, notably after Wadi Dawkah received FairWild Foundation certification in August 2025 for its commitment to global sustainable and ethical harvesting standards, enabling production expansion while maintaining ecological balance and product quality.
The first harvesting operations in Wadi Gazelle are set to begin after training programmes for national cadres are completed, marking a new phase in developing the sustainable frankincense industry and boosting its contribution to Oman’s economy.
