SAUDI AGRICULTURE '2026

Qassim Region ranks third nationally in date processing plants with 25 facilities

Qassim reinforced its leading position in the Kingdom's palm and date sector, generating 584,127.8 tons annually across 10.87 million palm trees. The region hosts 25 processing and manufacturing facilities with combined annual capacity exceeding 390,000 tons and investments estimated at SAR 313 million, transforming raw yields into high-value products including date paste, syrups, and natural vinegars.

Estidamah organises AI workshop to enhance agricultural productivity

The National Research and Development Center for Sustainable Agriculture (Estidamah) organised a workshop on the role of AI in enhancing agricultural productivity, bringing together government entities, research institutions, and the private sector. Key topics included data-driven decision-making, water management efficiency, yield forecasting, pest detection, and autonomous agricultural operations management.

Saudi Arabia advances GCC Food Security Strategy at 38th Ministerial Committee meeting

Saudi Arabia participated in the 38th Ministerial Committee meeting on agricultural cooperation and food security in Bahrain, reviewing progress on the GCC Food Security Strategy. The Kingdom announced it would host and chair the committee's 39th meeting. The committee commended Saudi Arabia's role in preparing a framework for a regional plant genetic resources bank and early-warning mechanisms.

Jazan launches SAR 600 million tropical fruits and greenhouses project

The Governor of Jazan launched a tropical fruits and greenhouses project with investments exceeding SAR 600 million, one of the largest protected agriculture projects in the region. The project covers 1 million square metres including 500,000 square metres of high-tech greenhouses, implemented in partnership with Dutch company KUBO. It is expected to create over 2,000 jobs and reduce water consumption by up to 75%.

MEWA boosts organic farming with ADF financing solutions

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture emphasised that specialised financing solutions to support organic farming expansion are a key enabler for enhancing sustainability and stimulating investment. A workshop with the Agricultural Development Fund brought together more than 30 farmers and investors from organic agriculture and livestock production activities across the Kingdom.