Rural farm rehabilitation program in Al-Baha to empower farmers
Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Dr. Hussam bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Al-Baha Region, the Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Program “Reef Saudi Arabia” is preparing to launch its Rural Farms Qualification for Agritourism next Monday. This innovative program is the first of its kind in training and development specifically designed for operators of agricultural and rural tourism activities in the southwestern regions of Saudi Arabia, directly contributing to the empowerment of local farmers and supporting productive families in line with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
Agricultural tourism as an economic and historical resource in Al-Baha
The Al-Baha region is distinguished by its unique geography and historic agricultural terraces, which form a rich cultural heritage in southwestern Saudi Arabia. Agriculture has long been the backbone of the region's economic and social life, and with modern development, the need has arisen to integrate this heritage with the promising tourism sector. The Rural Farms Rehabilitation Program aims to revitalize these terraces and traditional farms, transforming them into attractive tourist destinations that draw visitors from within and outside the Kingdom, thus contributing to the preservation of the region's environmental and cultural identity.
Details of preparatory workshops and strategic partnerships
Majed Al-Buraikan, the official spokesperson for the "Reef Saudi Arabia" program, explained that the program organized an intensive preparatory workshop at the "Al-Zaytouna Tourist Farm" in Al-Baha from April 13th to 15th. This workshop aimed to pave the way for the launch of the major event and to train participants on global best practices in managing tourist farms.
This vital program is being implemented in close collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in the Al-Baha region, and in strategic partnership with the “Reefna” Cooperative Society. The program directly targets farmers, producers, and their families in the region, empowering them with modern management tools and enabling them to provide distinguished tourism services befitting Al-Baha's status as a tourist destination.
Expected impact of rural farm rehabilitation program on sustainable development
This project has significant developmental dimensions on multiple levels. Locally, the program contributes to improving farmers' income levels and providing new and sustainable job opportunities for youth and productive families in rural areas, thus reducing migration to major cities. Regionally, the program enhances Al-Baha region's position as a leading destination for ecotourism and agritourism in the Kingdom, supporting the diversification of national income sources away from oil.
Internationally, the program aligns with global efforts to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the areas of poverty reduction, decent work, economic growth, and environmental protection. Transforming traditional farms into sustainable tourism projects offers a model for responsible environmental investment.
