AlUla, March 12, 2024, The AlUla Governorate stands as a flourishing hub for agriculture, playing a vital role in its economic development. Recognized as a "food basket," the farms in the region cater to the residents of the governorate as well as those in neighboring areas such as Madinah, Jeddah, Tabuk, Hail, and Riyadh. The abundance of agricultural produce in AlUla attracts people to dedicated festivals and events, showcasing the region's rich agricultural diversity.
AlUla's thriving agricultural sector is a result of its ideal climate and fertile soil. Date palms, a cornerstone of AlUla's agriculture, thrive alongside a diverse array of citrus fruits, mangoes, grapes, pomegranates, figs, and grains. Crops like barley, corn, and legumes are also significant, while a variety of vegetables such as tomatoes, eggplants, okra, onions, peppers, and leafy greens contribute to the region's agricultural wealth.
According to statistics from the Royal Commission for AlUla Governorate's agriculture center, the governorate produces an impressive 127,000 tons of fruit annually, cultivated on over 18,000 hectares. Grain production exceeds 800 tons annually on more than 200 hectares. Fodder production is also noteworthy, with over 40,000 tons grown on an area exceeding 2,000 hectares.
AlUla's agricultural landscape includes outdoor winter vegetables, with more than 60 hectares dedicated to their cultivation, producing over 1,565 tons annually. The region's outdoor summer vegetables are equally impressive, with a production exceeding 2,150 tons annually on an area of 101 hectares. Additionally, protected vegetable farms utilizing controlled environments contribute over 1,500 tons annually on about 25 hectares.
A recent tour by a Saudi Press Agency reporter documented the diverse crops thriving in AlUla's fertile fields and farms, highlighting the region's significance as a hub for agricultural productivity.