By Abdullahi Yusuf

AlUla is renowned for its diverse agricultural crops, which play a significant role in enriching iftar and suhoor meals during the holy month of Ramadan.

The region’s unique natural environment provides fresh, high-quality produce that graces the tables of residents and visitors, reflecting a deep-rooted connection to the land across generations.

Dates are among AlUla’s most prominent crops, distinguished by their high quality and diverse varieties, including barni, halwa, and ajwa.

The region also produces a variety of seasonal fruits such as citrus (oranges of various types and sizes, and lemons), as well as pomegranates, figs, and grapes. These fruits not only add a refreshing touch to suhoor meals but also provide essential vitamins and nutrients for those fasting. Additionally, they support local markets and meet community needs during Ramadan.

Fresh vegetables, including cucumbers, tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers, are cultivated using sustainable agricultural methods. These ingredients are essential in Ramadan dishes and salads, contributing to a balanced diet for those observing the fast. Many farms in AlUla rely on modern irrigation techniques to ensure year-round sustainable production of high-quality crops.

Agriculture in AlUla is deeply intertwined with the region’s heritage, with farmers leveraging fertile soil and a favorable climate to grow crops that sustain both residents and visitors. During Ramadan, the demand for fresh, nutritious produce significantly increases.

According to statistics from the Agricultural Sector of the Royal Commission for AlUla Governorate, the governorate’s annual fruit production is estimated at 127,000 tons, covering an area exceeding 18,000 hectares.

Grain production is estimated at more than 800 tons across 200 hectares, while fodder production spans over 2,000 hectares, yielding more than 40,000 tons annually.

The cultivation of open-field winter vegetables exceeds 60 hectares, with an annual yield of over 1,565 tons, while open-field summer vegetable production surpasses 2,150 tons across 101 hectares. Additionally, protected vegetable farms cover approximately 25 hectares, producing more than 1,500 tons annually.