Jabal Akhdar, meaning 'The Green Mountain' in Arabic, is part of the Al Hajar Mountain range in Oman. Situated at an altitude of around 2,000 meters above sea level, it offers a stark contrast to the arid regions of Oman with its cooler climate and more verdant terrain, making it a unique ecological hub. The mountain supports a variety of agricultural activities due to its fertile soil, with pomegranates, apricots, peaches, and grapes among the commonly grown produce, which are often celebrated during the annual Rose Festival. The area is also known for its traditional rose water extraction from the Damask rose. The mountain's terrain is rugged with terraced slopes, making it popular for hiking and trekking, offering visitors panoramic views of the valleys and hamlets below. Jabal Akhdar is part of the Saiq Plateau, and its highest point is Jebel Shams. The mountainous area includes the Jabal Akhdar Sanctuary for Natural Sceneries, protecting the diverse flora and fauna. Furthermore, it's regarded as an area of outstanding natural beauty and has been a recent focus for sustainable and sensitive tourism development.
