Qassim Dates: Production of 584,000 tons boosts the economy and food security
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to solidify its global position as one of the world's leading date producers, with the Qassim region playing a pivotal role in this vital sector. Dates are a staple food and a main dish on Saudi tables, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, due to their high nutritional value and numerous health benefits. They provide the fasting person with immediate energy at Iftar (the breaking of the fast) and prepare the stomach to receive food, thanks to their content of natural sugars, minerals, and vitamins essential for supporting energy and overall health.
Al-Qassim: The capital of palm trees and the breadbasket of the Kingdom
In the context of boosting local production, the National Center for Palms and Dates explained that the Qassim region is the leading date producer in the Kingdom, boasting over 10.8 million palm trees distributed across more than 13,000 model farms. Qassim is the highest-producing region for dates in Saudi Arabia, with an annual production exceeding 584,000 tons, reflecting the fertility of its land, the abundance of its water, and the expertise of its farmers, passed down through generations.
The region is renowned for producing over 30 varieties of the finest dates, which enjoy widespread popularity both locally and internationally. Among the most prominent of these varieties is the "Sukkari," nicknamed "yellow gold" for its beautiful color and unique taste, in addition to other premium varieties such as "Sagai," "Wanana," and "Shaqra." This agricultural biodiversity not only represents a cultural heritage but also forms a fundamental pillar of the Kingdom's food security system.
Economic impact and achieving the goals of Vision 2030
The role of the palm and date sector is not limited to meeting local demand, but has become an important contributor to the non-oil national economy, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. The sector has witnessed significant growth and qualitative leaps in recent years, with the Kingdom achieving record numbers that have placed it at the forefront of the world’s date-exporting countries.
According to official statistics, the Kingdom's total date production exceeds 1.9 million tons, encompassing more than 400 high-quality varieties across various regions. This substantial production has been reflected in exports, with the Kingdom's date exports reaching approximately 1.7 billion riyals. These premium national products reach markets in 133 countries worldwide. This export expansion underscores the high quality of Saudi dates and the producers' commitment to international standards, enhancing the competitiveness of Saudi products in global markets and contributing to self-sufficiency and supporting the national economy.
