Saudi Arabia Agriculture Market: All You Need to Know

Saudi Arabia agriculture market size has been growing rapidly as it has long been a key pillar of the national economic growth. The overall cultivated area reached around one million hectares in earlier years. While agricultural activity occurs throughout the country, it especially takes place in the Riyadh and Qassim provinces among others.

The Saudi Arabia agriculture market largely depends on groundwater. This is why the National Water Strategy seeks to reduce dependence on non-renewable groundwater sources for farming. This strategy also aims to expand the use of renewable water particularly through rainwater harvesting along with reusing treated wastewater.

Traditional Farming Practices

The Saudi Arabia agriculture market dates back to ancient times with farmers using traditional techniques for land cultivation. Traditional farming in the country involved tapping into well water and using the plow which is among the oldest tools in agriculture for harvesting or plowing. The timing for plowing agricultural crops was traditionally determined by the look of stars as observed by farmers.

Before beginning the plowing process farmers enriched the soil with fertilizers or using tools like the plow and rake for assistance. Ancient farmers also relied on the Midsam which is a broad wooden plank around two meters long dragged by camels or oxen to level the soil and bury the seeds following plowing.

Modern Agricultural Practices

The agriculture industry in the country has seen numerous advancements from land reclamation and seasonal crop cultivation to increasing land use with farmer support and providing agricultural loans. These efforts complement the execution of Vision 2030 along with various agricultural sector studies and programs. Key initiatives include agricultural subsidies which reallocate financial backing to eligible recipients. There is also the sustainable agricultural program that is popular as Reef. 

Seasonal Variations in Agriculture

The agricultural census identifies two main seasons. The winter season is being dedicated to planting winter crops which have a production cycle in less than one year. The planting season for winter crops runs from November to December with harvest occurring in March. These crops which include onions and cauliflower particularly grow in open fields or beneath permanent crops including fruit trees.

The summer season also follows a production cycle that is shorter than one year. These summer crops are generally sown in March through May. And the harvest period is in August and September. Notable summer crops are watermelon and tomatoes among others.

Seasonal farming is an essential component for achieving both balanced growth and sustainability within the agricultural industry. It takes place during specific seasons defined by variations in weather and the environmental conditions along with daylight hours. This agriculture aids in protecting the environment. It also lowers pollution while beautifying urban landscapes and streets.

Organic Farming

This environmentally friendly approach to farming results in food that is both safe and healthy for human consumption. This practice focuses on using natural materials for cultivation. It further steers clear of chemical fertilizers and genetically modified organisms.

Organic products including fresh produce and canned goods are available in most food markets or specialty stores. It is generally identifiable as it possesses the organic logo.

Aromatic Plants and Their Cultural Significance

Aromatic plants are a valuable heritage in the Saudi Arabia agriculture market. There is the tradition in Jazan region where the men wear headbands that come from aromatic plants to decorate their heads. The aromatic plant for man headbands varies in size and design. Meanwhile women elegantly use these plants to decorate their necks and the bride’s hair. It basically symbolizes adornment and happiness.

These aromatic plants see a surge in demand especially during holidays and events. It subsequently becomes key economic contributors which generate financial benefits. Some Saudi women operate businesses that specialize in selling perfumes. They use their skills to craft and blend their own distinctive fragrances.