Al Jabal al Akhdar above Nizwa, in stone and terraces
Published on 09/08/2026 at 14:14 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael Müller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWS
Al Jabal al Akhdar rises above Nizwa as a limestone highland in the Western Hajar Mountains. Its terraces, valleys and steep slopes define the landscape more clearly than any single summit.
Al Jabal al Akhdar’s limestone highland form
The mountain lies in the Wilayat of Nizwa in Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate and reaches altitudes of over 3,000 m (9,843 ft). Its better-known uplands include the Saiq Plateau, where cultivated terraces sit against rocky slopes.over 3,000 m
The name means “the Green Mountain”, a description that reflects the planted terraces and scattered tree cover rather than an urbanised setting. The reserve established by Royal Decree 80/2011 covers 122 km2 and sits largely above 2,000 m (6,562 ft).Royal Decree 80/2011
Terraces, juniper and high valleys
The high ground combines rocky slopes, fertile wadis and terraced cultivation. Juniper and olive trees grow above 2,000 m (6,562 ft), and perennial crops line the stepped fields.juniper forests
Annual rainfall is about 350 mm, with much of it falling in the winter months. That modest figure helps explain the contrast between the dry mountain rock and the cultivated plots that cling to the slopes.annual rainfall
A landscape shaped by use over generations
UNESCO’s biosphere reserve profile describes Al Jabal al Akhdar as a mountainous ecosystem with terraces, valleys and traditional agriculture. It also notes pastoralism, craft industries and communities spread across the highland.
The same profile places the reserve in Oman and gives its area as 45,032 ha. That formal designation sits alongside the older natural-landscape reserve created in 2011.45,032 ha
Visiting Al Jabal al Akhdar: what travellers from Western Europe should know
- The mountain lies north of Nizwa in Oman’s interior. Access is by road into the Saiq Plateau and through the highland villages.
- The terrain is steep, with limestone slopes and high altitudes throughout the approach. Much of the protected area sits above 2,000 m (6,562 ft).
- The official language is Arabic and the currency is the Omani rial.
- Entry requirements depend on your nationality; UK travellers can check the FCDO travel advice at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice, Irish travellers the Department of Foreign Affairs at ireland.ie.
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Frequently asked questions about Al Jabal al Akhdar
Where is Al Jabal al Akhdar?
It is a highland area in Oman, north of Nizwa and within the Wilayat of Nizwa in Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate. It forms part of the Western Hajar Mountains.
What does a visit involve?
Expect a mountain landscape of limestone slopes, terraced plots and high valleys. The road approach reaches the Saiq Plateau and the altitude remains high across much of the area.
What makes it distinct?
The place combines steep rock, cultivated terraces and a long agricultural tradition. Its formal reserve status and biosphere designation underline that mix of landscape and use.
