Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort has announced the return of its much-anticipated Olive Harvest Festival, taking place from 24–28 September 2025. Now in its fourth edition, the five-day event celebrates the rich heritage of olives on Oman’s iconic Green Mountain through culinary, cultural, and community-focused experiences.
This year’s theme, “From Tree to Table – A Journey Through Olive Heritage”, highlights the timeless role of olives in both regional tradition and global gastronomy. Guests and the local community will enjoy activities ranging from hands-on harvesting and storytelling to olive oil tastings and masterclasses, creating a holistic journey from orchard to kitchen.
The festival welcomes two renowned international chefs: Chef Ovidiu-Gabriel Mu?at, Executive Chef at Tivoli Portopiccolo Sistiana Wellness Resort & Spa in Italy, and Chef Martin Aristondo of NH Collection San Sebastian Aranzazu in Spain’s Basque Country. Together, they will host exclusive dinners, curated buffets, and immersive cooking classes blending Italian and Spanish culinary traditions with local Omani ingredients.
Highlights include the Welcome Ceremony on 24 September at Al Shurfa terrace, where guests will be greeted with mountain-inspired drinks crafted with local olives, herbs, and citrus. Throughout the festival, olive historian Mr. Giorgio Robles will lead “Olive Tales at Breakfast” sessions, while Dr. Ali Al Furqani will guide insightful Olive Heritage Tours, including a visit to a traditional olive oil press to witness the production process.
From Italian and Spanish cooking classes to garden dinners and a Canyon View feast at Bella Vista, the programme blends authentic flavors with Anantara’s celebrated hospitality. On Saturday, the much-loved Olive Market Day will transform Bella Vista Terrace into a lively hub of artisanal stalls, tastings, and pop-up classes, offering guests a taste of local craftsmanship.
The festival concludes on 28 September with a celebratory Spanish and Italian breakfast at Al Maisan, featuring specialties such as tortillas, focaccia, and freshly pressed premium olive oils. As General Manager Maren Kuehl shares: “The Olive Harvest Festival is a tribute to the fertile land of Al Jabal Al Akhdar, but also to the people and traditions that enrich our region. It connects guests to the joy of sharing seasonal produce crafted with care.”
Perched 2,000 metres above sea level, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort remains one of the world’s highest luxury retreats. Surrounded by rugged canyons and terraced orchards, the Olive Harvest Festival strengthens the resort’s legacy of cultural connection and sustainable luxury, offering guests an unforgettable opportunity to celebrate nature’s bounty in Oman.
