Amidst the hard work and challenging conditions, the season is also a vibrant cultural festival.
Ancient Sardine Fishing Tradition in Oman Continues with Modern Adaptation
OMAN
Thursday, September 11, 2025, 00:10 (GMT + 9)
Dhofar’s annual Dhawaghi season, a vital economic and cultural pillar, blends centuries-old techniques with new technology to sustain a key industry.
DHOFAR — The coastal region of Dhofar is once again alive with the start of the Dhawaghi season, an annual tradition of sardine fishing that spans from October to April. This centuries-old practice is not only a cornerstone of local heritage but also a critical economic lifeline for the region. As reported by the Oman Observer, fishermen are combining traditional techniques with modern tools to ensure a successful harvest.
The Dhawaghi season is a communal effort, with crews of 20 to 30 men led by a seasoned captain. They use specialized nets known as Jarif to locate and capture shoals of sardines. While the process has evolved from using primitive boats and camels to modern-day engine-powered boats and 4x4s, the core principles of skill, patience, and teamwork remain unchanged.
According to Captain Madin Bashir Al Barakah, the process is both an art and a science, requiring meticulous preparation and a deep understanding of the sea. Abdullah Ghuwas, head of fisheries resources at the Dhofar Fisheries Department, emphasizes the broader economic impact, noting that the fishing activities support related industries like transport, livestock feed, and export markets.
It is a very particular fishery, as the Toyota pickup trucks perform the job of a trawler by pulling nets from the shore
Recent data highlights the sardine industry's growing importance. In 2023, Oman’s sardine production surged to 49,651 tonnes, a remarkable 133% increase from the previous year's 21,290 tonnes, according to the General Directorate of Agricultural Wealth, Fisheries, and Water Resources. This increase underscores Dhofar’s position as a major fishing hub. Globally, Oman was the 11th largest exporter of frozen sardines in 2023, with a trade value of $15.9 million, exporting to key markets like Brazil, Egypt, and Ghana.
To ensure the sustainability of this valuable resource, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources regulates the season. By 2025, fishermen will be able to apply and renew their sardine net licenses online through the Ministry’s Tharwat platform. This modernization effort aims to protect the resource for future generations, ensuring that the Dhawaghi season remains a source of livelihood, cultural pride, and community resilience for years to come.
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