Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Riyadh Region, the Governor of Al-Hariq Governorate, Mohammed bin Nasser Al-Jarba, inaugurated the 10th edition of the Citrus Festival on Thursday. This event is organized and supervised by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, with the aim of supporting local farmers and marketing their products, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
Strategic importance and long-standing agricultural standing
Al-Hariq Governorate enjoys a distinguished historical and geographical position on the agricultural map of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Known for its fertile soil and abundant fresh groundwater, the governorate is ideally suited for cultivating the finest citrus fruits and dates. This festival is not merely a fleeting annual event, but a celebration of the region's agricultural heritage and a testament to the competitiveness of Saudi produce in terms of quality and taste.
On the economic front, the festival is a cornerstone in enhancing national food security. By enabling farmers to sell their produce directly to consumers, supply chains are shortened, farmers' profit margins are increased, and investment in the agricultural sector is encouraged, directly contributing to sustainable development goals and diversifying non-oil revenue sources.
Diverse activities and ongoing support
The festival runs for 10 days, featuring a wide range of activities aimed at boosting domestic production and developing farmers' marketing capabilities. It includes a large exhibition showcasing the largest gathering of farmers and specialized companies displaying citrus fruits, local fruits, dates, and the renowned local honey produced in the region's apiaries.
In this context, Ali bin Mohammed Al-Mansour, Director General of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in the Riyadh region, affirmed that the tenth edition of the festival is a continuation of the Ministry's successes in supporting the citrus sector. He pointed out that the festival serves as a platform for exchanging expertise and showcasing the latest technologies in smart agriculture, thus enhancing production efficiency and quality.
A complete tourist and entertainment destination
In addition to its agricultural focus, the festival aims to boost domestic tourism, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the natural and heritage sites of Al-Hariq Governorate. Accompanying programs include visits to the Ibex Reserve, the Al-Mufajir Heritage Village, and the Green Farm, providing a comprehensive rural experience that combines shopping, entertainment, and education.
The ministry invited all interested parties and families from within and outside the region to visit the festival, to enjoy the distinctive winter atmosphere, support local products, and participate in the workshops and accompanying cultural events that reflect the governorate’s identity and environmental diversity.
