Sakaka, 16 Rajab 1447 AH (5 January 2026)

The digital press conference for the 19th Al-Jouf International Olive Festival 2026 today revealed the highlights of the events and innovative experiences that blend the world of olives with authentic Saudi culture, with 45 olive farms, 10 agricultural companies and 7 countries taking part in the festival held annually under the patronage of Prince Faisal bin Nawaf bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Al-Jouf.

The festival opens on 8 January at Prince Abdulilah Cultural Centre in Sakaka and runs until 17 January, organised by Al-Jouf Region Municipality with wide local and international participation that reflects Al-Jouf's standing as one of the Kingdom's foremost regions for olives and olive oil.

Eng. Atef bin Mohammed Al-Sharaan, Mayor of Al-Jouf Region and chair of the festival's supreme committee, said the festival enjoys the support of the Governor and Deputy Governor, helping empower farmers and promote their products. The festival, he said, is an important platform for showcasing the quality of olive oil locally and regionally, developing it year by year and expanding internationally to bring Al-Jouf olives to global markets.

Dr. Ahmed bin Jamil Qattan, CEO of the Strategic Office for the Development of Al-Jouf Region and deputy chair of the committee, said the festival has grown with the leadership's support into an international platform that strengthens the global presence of Saudi olives. The 2026 festival, he said, celebrates "green gold" as an authentic agricultural heritage and a sustainable investment, empowering local farmers and building a Saudi brand that competes in world markets.

Omar bin Abdulaziz Al-Hamwan, the municipality's official spokesperson and festival CEO, said more than 30 government, private and non-profit bodies are taking part, confirming the festival's strength as the region's foremost agricultural and cultural event. He announced the redevelopment of the festival zones to give visitors a higher-quality experience in design and delivery, along with a new visual identity for the 19th edition that reflects Al-Jouf's character.

This year's festival features a new operetta with a fresh vision and an international olive kitchen with chefs from several countries, along with zones including the Olive Expo, the Olive Kitchen, Gardens, The World, Al-Khuzama and Tour Al-Jouf, as well as the International Stage and the Olive Stage, six play zones and three music zones, in a comprehensive experience for every segment of society.