Al-Baha, January 7, 2025 – The Tihama area in Al-Baha region has earned recognition as one of Saudi Arabia's most vital agricultural hubs, thanks to its unique environmental characteristics that offer an ideal foundation for sustainable agriculture and contribute to the region’s economic prosperity. This area’s diverse agricultural output not only supports the local economy but also underscores the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to achieve long-term agricultural sustainability.
Fahd Al-Zahrani, the Director General of the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture in Al-Baha, highlighted the region’s remarkable agricultural advantages, particularly the wide range of crops grown in Tihama. Spanning over 900 hectares, Tihama is home to an abundance of agricultural products, from mangoes and shadwi coffee to bananas, citrus fruits, and a variety of grains such as sorghum, maize, millet, and sesame. The region also cultivates aromatic plants, further emphasizing its agricultural diversity and the suitability of its fertile lands for a wide variety of crops. Al-Zahrani emphasized that this diverse crop base reflects the region's strength in food production and sustainable land use.
These efforts are not only bolstering local agriculture but also contributing to the broader goal of environmental sustainability. Al-Zahrani pointed out that local initiatives aimed at enhancing production are part of a broader strategy to promote environmental stewardship while providing economic opportunities for the residents of the Al-Baha region. These initiatives play a key role in supporting the local economy, creating jobs, and improving the livelihoods of farmers and other residents.
One such local farmer, Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, shared insights into the evolution of the farms in Tihama. Over the years, these agricultural operations have evolved from simple farms into distinctive tourist destinations. Visitors to the region are invited to participate in guided farm tours, where they can explore traditional farming methods and gain hands-on experience with activities such as crop harvesting. Al-Ghamdi noted that these agritourism activities not only highlight the importance of sustainable agricultural practices but also contribute to raising awareness and support for local agricultural efforts. By integrating tourism with farming, Tihama is not only preserving its rich agricultural heritage but also fostering greater economic engagement within the community.
The successful integration of agriculture with tourism and sustainability efforts in Tihama represents a model for the future of Saudi Arabia’s agricultural sector. By leveraging its natural advantages and promoting a diversified approach to agricultural and economic development, Tihama is setting a strong example of how local communities can achieve sustainable growth while preserving the environment and enhancing economic opportunities.
