Muscat: The sugarcane harvest season has officially started in Oman, with farmers in several regions beginning to collect the crop. The harvesting is set to continue through April, marking a key period for agriculture and traditional food production in the country, Muscat Daily reported.
Initial reports indicate a strong season, supported by favourable weather conditions that have helped improve crop growth and are expected to result in higher yields. Harvesting has already begun in the wilayats of Manah and Adam in the Dakhliyah Governorate, a major hub for sugarcane cultivation.
In the coming weeks, harvesting activities will expand to other areas in the region, including Bidbid, Samail, Izki, Nizwa, Bahla and Al Hamra. Sugarcane farming remains an important seasonal activity for local communities, supporting markets and small-scale industries.
The harvest is also expected to begin soon in other governorates such as Dhahirah, North Sharqiyah, North Batinah and South Batinah, where suitable farming conditions support sugarcane cultivation.
Dakhliyah Governorate continues to play a leading role in production, with both traditional and modern processing units operating in the region. During the harvest period, markets see increased activity as fresh sugarcane products become widely available.
The crop is used almost entirely, reflecting efficient farming practices. It is processed into a range of traditional products, including red sugar, balooj, sharj, khameer and molasses, locally known as zeej. By-products are used as animal feed and natural fertiliser, while leftover stalks are commonly used as fuel.
Sugarcane, a water-intensive crop, is typically grown in warm climates and requires long cultivation periods, often close to a year. It remains an important source of both sugar and traditional food products in Oman.

