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SALALAH — The Governorate of Dhofar is well-known for growing coconuts locally known as Mishli or Kazabah.

Coconut trees have earned Dhofar Governorate economic and tourist reputation across the ages. The cultivation of coconuts was an ancient practice in the Governorate of Dhofar.

Famous Arab traveller Ibn Battuta wrote about the coconuts of Dhofar in 748 AH. He described the trees as a source of living in the region.

The coconut tree which has been described as the best gift to human beings has several health benefits such as kidney stimulation, alleviation of stomach ache and others.

Coconut is considered among the important crops in the Sultanate as it has been used as a source for vegetable oils, while crushed coconut is used in sweets (halwa), cosmetic, biscuit and ice cream manufacturing.

Salalah agricultural plain extending from Oquad to Al Dahareez and Razat area and Taqa Wilayat are among the important locations for coconut farming due to their appropriate environment.

Coconut farms also exist and around springs such as Ain Hamran, Razat, Al Dumur tourist resort and Al Mughsail.

The governorate is home to around 150 thousand coconut trees, according to an estimate. Each coconut tree produces an average of 75 to 120 fruits annually.

The coconut trees represent an important part of the national economy as it consumes a little amount of water and adapts to the environmental changes and produces fruits all over the year.

The coconut tree branches or gozoum as locally known are used in the making of mats and curtains. Due to the growing numbers of visitors to Dhofar Governorate during the Khareef Season, the Dhofar Municipality has opened special outlets for selling coconuts.

Oman Observer 27th June 2001