First Najran Dates Festival: High-Quality Dates and Economic Prosperity

The Najran region is renowned for housing some of the oldest and highest-quality palm trees in the Arabian Peninsula, which provide a substantial economic yield. The first Najran Dates Festival, organized by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture's (MEWA) local branch, started in early September. This event serves as a tribute to the palm tree's cultural and economic significance among the people of Najran. It aims to preserve the region's rich heritage, boost the palm-based economy, expand its reach, and enhance its economic and developmental benefits. During a tour of the festival in western Najran City, an SPA reporter engaged with various officials and participants. Director-General of MEWA's Najran branch Eng. Mareeh Al-Shahrani highlighted the enthusiastic response from farmers to showcase their produce and engage in the festival's diverse activities, ranging from cultural and educational seminars to recreational events. Al-Shahrani noted the extensive participation from local palm gr owers, government and private entities, the Saudi Reef Program, and families involved in cottage industries. He emphasized that the event attracted a large crowd of citizens and residents eager to explore the region's famous date varieties. Families working in cottage industries played a crucial role in processing palm products like fronds, fruits, and date pits, showing their dedication to making the festival a success and ensuring its growth to meet the needs of farmers and visitors. Farmer Mohammed Al Mansour praised Najran for its exceptional date production quality, featuring varieties such as Al-Mawakil, Al-Barni, and Al-Rutab. He highlighted the unique quality and size of fruits from different palm trees, influencing prices based on market demand and supply dynamics. Farmer Hussein Al Abbas, besides his agricultural pursuits, shared his expertise in processing date derivatives native to Najran, including fire-cooked molasses and Najrani date powder. Source: Saudi Press Agency