The 10th Al-Hariq Citrus Festival 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 10th annual Citrus Festival will commence on Wednesday in Al-Hariq Governorate. Organized by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, this prominent annual event underscores the significant agricultural importance of the governorate and aims to support local farmers and market their high-quality produce, thereby directly contributing to national food security.
Economic and developmental importance that aligns with Vision 2030
The festival is not merely a marketplace for showcasing products; it also represents a significant economic driver for the region. This edition aligns perfectly with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on diversifying income sources, supporting local content, and empowering farmers by opening direct marketing channels connecting them with consumers and investors. The ten-day festival aims to develop the technical and marketing capabilities of producers, thereby enhancing the sustainability of the agricultural sector in the region.
Al-Hariq: Riyadh's food basket and agricultural identity
Al-Hariq Governorate boasts a fertile agricultural environment and abundant water resources, historically renowned for producing some of the finest citrus fruits and dates in the Kingdom. This festival serves as an annual opportunity to showcase this unique agricultural heritage, with farmers displaying a diverse array of oranges, tangerines, and lemons, as well as dates and local honey. The event reflects the governorate's environmental diversity and its capacity to produce crops that rival imported products in quality, thereby bolstering consumer confidence in domestically produced goods.
Integrated tourism and entertainment activities
The ministry explained that the tenth edition of the festival features a wide variety of activities, including an extensive exhibition bringing together leading farmers and specialized companies, along with broad participation from local producers, restaurants, and cafes. To enhance tourism, itineraries have been incorporated, including visits to prominent landmarks in the governorate such as the Ibex Reserve, the Al-Mafjir Heritage Village, and the Green Farm, offering visitors a comprehensive rural and tourist experience that combines shopping, entertainment, and nature exploration.
Technology and innovation in the service of agriculture
As part of its efforts to develop the sector, the festival includes workshops and educational programs focusing on the latest technologies in smart agriculture and digital marketing. The Ministry invites all interested parties and visitors from within and outside the Riyadh region to seize this opportunity and visit the festival to enjoy its unique winter atmosphere, discover the quality of Saudi products, and participate in the economic and tourism activity taking place in the province, building upon the successes and record-breaking achievements of previous editions.
