Oman is a land of contrasts and breathtaking natural beauty. Here, pristine white beaches along the Arabian Sea lie adjacent to majestic desert dunes, ancient forts stand beside modern cities, and cool highlands offer a stark departure from the sweltering plains. It is within this diversity that a true marvel occurs every spring: the Saiq Plateau in the Al Jabal Al Akhdar (Green Mountain) range is blanketed in a delicate pink carpet of Damask roses. Their sweet, heady fragrance fills the air, transforming the region into one of the country’s most poetic and unforgettable locations.
This period has been named the Spring Rose Season (Rose Season). In 2026, it began on March 30 and will last until approximately mid-May. The peak of the bloom occurs on the Saiq Plateau and in the surrounding villages of Al Ain, Al Aqr, and Al Shuraidjah. This is where the famous terraced gardens are located, home to thousands of cultivated rose bushes.
Traditions Preserved for Centuries
Local farmers harvest the flowers strictly at dawn, while the petals are still moist with morning dew. At this time, the concentration of essential oils is at its peak. The harvest is conducted entirely by hand—an ancient practice passed down from generation to generation. Immediately after being picked, the petals are taken to small traditional distilleries known as "Al-Dehjan" or "Al-Duhjan."
There, the roses are simmered in large copper vessels called "Al-Burma" for about four hours. This process yields pure, aromatic Omani rose water, which is highly valued in both perfumery and local gastronomy. Some of the petals are used to produce rose oil, tea, jam, and various cosmetic products.
Natural and Cultural Context
Al Jabal Al Akhdar is one of the greenest regions in Oman. Thanks to its unique microclimate and the ancient falaj irrigation system (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the area supports the year-round cultivation of not only roses but also pomegranates, apricots, peaches, apples, pears, figs, walnuts, and almonds. The rose season coincides with the blossoming of other fruit trees, making the mountain landscape particularly rich and multilayered.
In 2024, the production of rose-based goods in the region was valued at approximately 200,000 Omani rials, while rose water output reached about 28,000 liters. These figures continue to grow, and the season plays a vital role in supporting local communities. Revenue from the harvest and processing goes directly to farmers and artisans, helping to sustain the traditional mountain way of life.
Experiencing Rose Season in the Mountains
During this time, the entire cycle—from the morning harvest to the distillation—can be observed in the villages. Many locals open their small production workshops to visitors, showcasing the traditional methods. Hiking along the terraces allows one to see thousands of blooming bushes and enjoy panoramic views of canyons and mountain peaks. The atmosphere in the mountains during these weeks is exceptionally serene and fragrant; the cool air, morning mist, and thick scent of roses create a sense that time is slowing down.
The rose season is more than an agricultural event; it is a fundamental part of Oman’s cultural heritage. It illustrates how ancient traditions can exist harmoniously within the modern world, bolstering the local economy and highlighting the country’s unique natural wealth.
The Spring Rose Season in Al Jabal Al Akhdar remains one of Oman’s most vivid and memorable natural occurrences. It serves as a testament to the harmony between humanity, nature, and centuries-old traditions in one of Arabia’s most beautiful highland regions.
