The Citrus Festival in Al-Hariq 10 kicks off under the patronage of the Prince of Riyadh
Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Riyadh Region, the Governor of Al-Hariq, Mohammed bin Nasser Al-Jarba, inaugurated the 10th edition of the Al-Hariq Citrus Festival on Thursday. This prominent annual event, organized and supervised by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, underscores the governorate's position as one of the most important food baskets in the central region.
Strategic importance and support for the national economy
The Citrus Festival in Al-Hariq is more than just a marketing event; it's a cornerstone in supporting the local agricultural economy. Al-Hariq Governorate is renowned for its fertile soil and fresh water, making it an ideal environment for cultivating the finest citrus fruits and dates. Organizing this festival aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes achieving food security, supporting small farmers, and encouraging local production to reduce reliance on imports.
The 10-day festival aims to empower farmers to market their produce directly, thereby boosting their economic returns and encouraging them to continue developing their agricultural practices. The event also seeks to raise awareness of the quality of locally produced goods and their competitiveness in local and regional markets.
Diverse activities and unique tourist experiences
The festival's activities extend beyond simply showcasing agricultural products; they encompass a comprehensive tourism and entertainment experience. The festival includes a large exhibition bringing together leading farmers and specialized companies to display a wide variety of citrus fruits, dates, and locally produced honey from the region's apiaries. In addition, numerous restaurants and cafes participate to support local businesses.
As part of its efforts to promote agricultural and ecotourism, the festival offers visitors the opportunity to explore the governorate's prominent landmarks, such as the Ibex Reserve, the Al-Mafjir Heritage Village, and the Green Farm. These destinations provide visitors with an experience that blends shopping, entertainment, and an appreciation for the region's natural and cultural heritage.
Developing the agricultural sector through technology
The Director General of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in Riyadh, Ali bin Mohammed Al-Mansour, affirmed that the tenth edition of the festival is a culmination of the successes of previous years. He noted that the festival includes workshops and educational programs focusing on "smart agriculture" and the latest technologies in supply chains, which contribute to increasing production efficiency and sustainability. This platform is a genuine opportunity for farmers and specialists to exchange expertise, which will positively impact crop quality and the future of agriculture in the region.
The organizers invited all citizens, residents and visitors from inside and outside the Kingdom to visit the festival, enjoy the distinctive winter atmosphere, taste the high-quality local products and participate in the accompanying events that meet the aspirations of all family members.
