Manah: This year's honey output in the Wilayat of Manah in the A'Dakhiliyah Governorate reached over 3 tonnes, with Sidr (jujube tree) honey and Samar (Acacia tree) kinds. Over 100 beekeepers in the wilayat manage approximately 1,400 beehives.
Mohammed bin Hareb Al Bahlani, Director of the Wilayat of Manah's Department of Agriculture and Water Resources, stated that honeybee harvesting is a highly important profession in the wilayat that provides a substantial source of revenue for many families involved in this sector. It helps the national economy by supplying the local market with a range of honeys and marketing them both inside and outside the Sultanate of Oman through participation in specific fairs and events, according to him.
He reported that this year's production, particularly of Samar (Acacia tree) honey, was higher than the previous year due to the availability of grazing and the absence of pests and illnesses in the hives. This resulted in greater availability and lower pricing for customers.
Reflecting on his experience in local honey production, beekeeper Nasser bin Hamoud Al Busaidi remarked that his journey with Omani honey gathering began 40 years ago, emphasizing the difficulties of collecting honey while traversing valleys and mountains.
He clarified that transferring hives outside the wilayat is expensive, although some beekeepers choose it because of drought and severe temperatures. This year, however, favorable conditions—such as minimal rainfall and numerous Samar tree blooms—resulted in excellent output. He also observed differences in the flavor and quality of honey among Oman's governorates owing to higher coastal humidity as compared to interior regions, despite the fact that bees prefer little humidity.
Furthermore, he emphasised that beekeeping generates a steady and prosperous living for many people, while costs are still affordable, adding value to the local economy. Effective marketing initiatives, notably among young people and via a variety of communication channels, as well as participation in continuing festivals and events, contribute to this sector's growth.
It is worth mentioning that the number of beekeepers in A'Dakhiliyah Governorate is about 1,639, with honey production last year (2024) totaling around 168 tonnes of Sidr (jujube tree) and Samar (Acacia tree) honey. This figure is likely to rise by the end of the current season.
