Saudi Arabia: AlUla’s date sector boosting tourism, local economy

 

Saudi Arabia: AlUla promoting date palm cultivation amidst agricultural boost 

As part of the ongoing AlUla Dates Festival, Taibah University has launched an initiative titled “Transform Your Farm into a Tourist Destination” at the Al-Manshiyah Farmers Market in AlUla, encouraging local farmers to turn their palm groves into tourism-friendly destinations.

The awareness campaign supports AlUla’s vision of combining agriculture with sustainable tourism by promoting date palm cultivation, agribusiness development, and farm-based tourism. This initiative helps farmers diversify income sources while enriching the visitor experience in AlUla, a region celebrated for its natural beauty, cultural depth, and historic significance.

 

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The AlUla Dates Festival, running until November 15, shines a spotlight on the date palm as a timeless symbol of the region’s agricultural identity. It also reflects AlUla’s balance between traditional farming practices and modern sustainability efforts — providing a platform for local producers to display their craftsmanship and expand market reach.

Under the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), the region’s agricultural landscape spans more than 15,000 hectares and is home to over 4.1 million palm trees, producing around 170,000 tons of dates annually. The prized Barni variety alone accounts for nearly 80 percent of the annual yield.

The economic impact continues to grow year after year. The 2023 season generated over SR12.8 million ($3.4 million) in auction sales and attracted 15,000 visitors, while 2024 sales reached 1.7 million kilograms, with revenues exceeding SR8.8 million. Final figures for the 2025 season will be announced following the festival’s conclusion.

 

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In recent years, AlUla’s agricultural development programs have expanded rapidly — training more than 2,500 participants, accrediting 250 farms under the Saudi Dates Program, and treating over 120,000 palm trees through fertilization and pest control initiatives.

Markets such as Al-Manshiyah have become vital community hubs, connecting farmers directly with visitors and buyers, while also serving as spaces for cultural exchange. Interactive sessions with renowned chefs celebrate AlUla’s rich agricultural heritage and introduce creative new ways to feature dates in contemporary cuisine.

Through these combined efforts, AlUla continues to position its date sector as a cornerstone of sustainable development, economic diversification, and cultural tourism — ensuring that the oasis remains as vibrant and productive as it is historic.

Source: Arab News