Oman’s Housing and Urban Planning Ministry has signed usufruct contracts worth over RO 37 million to strengthen food security. This move aims to support agricultural growth while expanding private-sector investment across key regions. It also aligns with the country’s broader strategy to enhance natural resource use and improve the national economy.
Officials signed part of these agreements during a recent event attended by senior figures from multiple government agencies. These included the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, and the Najd Agricultural Development Office. The contracts focus on the Najd area, a fertile region with strong potential for agricultural development. Investors will now gain access to this land to launch large-scale farming projects.
Sultan Hamad Al Ghafri, the Housing Director General in Dhofar Governorate, noted that these agreements directly support approved development projects. He stated that the new contracts will help raise agricultural production levels in targeted areas. In addition, they will create jobs and support Oman’s plan for crop self-sufficiency. These steps play a key role in improving national food resilience.
The ministry also signed more than 590 usufruct agreements across various sectors during the first half of the year. Over 375 of these were in agriculture, followed by 160 in commerce, 40 in industry, and 10 in residential-commercial areas. Fees collected from these contracts exceeded RO 6 million, highlighting growing investor interest in Oman’s land development plans.
This initiative aligns with the National Urban Development Strategy and Oman Vision 2040. Both emphasize food security, regional balance, and sustainable growth. Moreover, the contracts support smart use of arable land while opening new pathways for local and international agricultural investors. These measures also reinforce collaboration between government bodies and the private sector.
The timing also coincides with the launch of the Kareef Dhofar Real Estate Season. This event promotes investment in both real estate and agriculture while supporting future city development. It runs alongside Dhofar’s tourism and economic programs, helping boost interest in the region. Oman continues to build an integrated investment ecosystem through such multi-sector initiatives.
