AlUla’s palm groves shape the region's identity
In the heart of AlUla, where history and nature intertwine, vast palm groves
have shaped the region’s identity for centuries.
Spanning 16,500 hectares, these groves produce over 116,000 tons of dates
annually, playing a vital role in local traditions, especially during Ramadan.
Home to more than 3.1 million date palms, AlUla’s harvest season runs from mid-August
to October, with Barni dates—accounting for 80% of the annual yield—being the
most prized variety, enjoyed both locally and globally.
More Than a Harvest, A Heritage
For AlUla’s farmers, date cultivation is more than a livelihood—it’s a deep-rooted
tradition. Before dawn, Suleiman Mohammed Abdulkarim, a local farmer, tends to
the palm trees his family has nurtured for generations. For him, the land is a connection
to his ancestors, a heritage he hopes to pass on to his children.
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Beyond dates, AlUla’s fertile land yields citrus fruits, wheat, barley,
frankincense, and mangoes, showcasing the region’s agricultural richness.
During Ramadan, these homegrown ingredients fill tables as families gather
under the palms, breaking their fast with dates and water before sharing
traditional meals.
Preserving Tradition Through Innovation
AlUla’s farming legacy is safeguarded through initiatives like the AlUla
Dates Festival, which celebrates the harvest and provides farmers with
training, markets, and resources. Sustainable farming projects continue to
enhance crop quality while preserving centuries-old agricultural practices.
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For the people of AlUla, Ramadan is more than a time of fasting and
reflection—it’s a season of reconnection. As families share meals beneath the
towering palms, they uphold a tradition that has sustained their community for
generations—keeping both their heritage and way of life alive.
Source: Saudi Gazette
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