Riyadh, October 02, 2023, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ranks among the world's top 10 coffee-consuming nations, prompting the government's active interest in nurturing coffee cultivation through various initiatives and programs. Presently, the Kingdom produces over 800 tons of Arabica coffee annually, with more than 400,000 Arabica coffee trees in regions like Jazan, Aseer, and Al-Baha. The development plan seeks to plant 1.2 million coffee trees by 2026.
In celebration of International Coffee Day, observed on October 1st annually, the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture highlighted that the Southern Region of the Kingdom hosts over 2,535 coffee farms, including 500 model coffee farms. The ministry is dedicated to increasing coffee production as a high-yield crop.
Efforts are underway to make 15 provinces in the southwest a significant source of Saudi Arabian coffee, particularly the esteemed Arabica variety. This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's objectives to boost coffee production, bolstering the national economy. The ministry has launched several programs, including support from the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program (REF), aimed at enhancing Arabica coffee production, processing, and marketing.
Furthermore, the Ministry has inked an investment agreement for the establishment of the Kingdom's first coffee city. Saudi Arabia's coffee culture has gained international recognition, with coffee being included on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. "Saudi Coffee" now replaces "Arabic Coffee," and 2022 was celebrated as the Year of Saudi Coffee.
Additionally, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) has received directives to establish the Saudi Coffee Company, recognizing the sector's significance among Saudis and visitors to the Kingdom.
