The National Center for Palms and Dates has announced the opening of registration for its agricultural subsidies program for date palm farmers for the 2026 season (1447/1448 AH). This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to support farmers, enhance the sustainability of the date palm sector, and increase its productivity, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 for agricultural development.
General context and importance of the palm sector in the Kingdom
Date palm cultivation and date production hold a firmly established historical, economic, and cultural place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The date palm is not merely a food source; it is a symbol of generosity and abundance, and an integral part of the national heritage. The Kingdom is one of the world's largest producers and exporters of dates, with this sector contributing significantly to the agricultural GDP and providing thousands of jobs. Under Vision 2030, the government aims to strengthen this strategic sector by adopting the latest agricultural technologies, improving the value chain from production to marketing, and opening new export markets, while emphasizing environmental and water sustainability.
Dates and conditions for registration in the subsidies program
The center clarified that the registration period will begin on Sunday, February 23, 2026 (corresponding to Ramadan 6, 1447 AH) and continue until Thursday, April 2, 2026 (corresponding to Shawwal 14, 1447 AH). The center urged those wishing to benefit from the support to register through the approved channels during the specified period, provided they meet the following conditions:
- Ownership and licensing: The applicant must be the owner or lessee of the farm, and must have obtained a license to practice agricultural activity from the “Hasr” platform.
- Nationality and age: The applicant must be a Saudi national, and his age must not be less than 21 years.
- Farm area and number of palm trees: The farm area should not exceed 50 dunams, and the number of productive (fruit-bearing) palm trees should not exceed 500 palm trees as a maximum.
- Water resource sustainability: The need to obtain a water conservation certificate, a requirement that reflects the national trend towards preserving water resources.
The selection mechanism and expected impact of the program
The center indicated that if the number of eligible applicants exceeds the program's target, a selection process will be implemented to determine beneficiaries. Priority criteria are based on several socioeconomic factors, including: holders of a self-employment document issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, those with lower incomes, married individuals, and older age. This program aims to achieve a multi-dimensional positive impact. At the local level, it contributes to improving the income of small farmers and encourages them to adopt best agricultural practices. At the national level, the program enhances food security, supports the non-oil economy, and improves the quality and competitiveness of Saudi dates in regional and international markets, thus solidifying the Kingdom's position as a global leader in this vital sector.
