The ninth Citrus Festival in Al-Hariq governorate, Riyadh region, has seen exceptional success, drawing more than 170,000 visitors in just four days, standing out as one of the Kingdom's most prominent economic and social events. The festival continues over ten days, offering farmers and productive families a golden opportunity to market their products and boost the region's economic returns.

A Record Turnout Reflecting the Event's Success

The festival recorded a strong start, with more than 8,000 visitors on its first day, rising to 15,000 visitors on the second day, before a qualitative leap saw more than 70,000 visitors on the third day, reaching a record 76,000 visitors on the fourth day. The festival coincided with the mid-year school break, which helped draw visitors of different ages and social groups.

Economic Activity Revitalizing the Region

The heavy turnout at the festival notably boosted agricultural sales, especially citrus products, for which the governorate is a key production hub. According to statistics, the governorate has more than 340 citrus farms containing over 96,000 orange trees, 26,000 mandarin trees, and 15,000 lemon trees, in addition to 5,000 citron trees. The governorate also has 670 date palm farms housing more than 120,000 palm trees, reinforcing its standing as a distinguished agricultural destination.

Farms and orchards had to meet the surge in demand by supplying extra quantities of produce, reflecting the festival's success in achieving its economic goals and strengthening national food security.

Diverse Events and an Exceptional Visitor Experience

The event wasn't limited to marketing agricultural products; it also offered a well-rounded entertainment and cultural experience. Activities included artistic and cultural performances enjoyed by visitors of all ages, while children had the chance for entertainment through games and plays. Competitions and prizes also helped create an exciting, enjoyable atmosphere.

On the educational side, specialized agricultural workshops were held, led by experts to raise farmers' and visitors' awareness of the latest practices in citrus production, including modern techniques that help improve crop quality and increase productivity.

Fruitful Cooperation to Achieve Comprehensive Development

The festival is organized through cooperation between the National Agricultural Services Company and Al-Hariq governorate and municipality, alongside the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture's office in Al-Hariq. It aims to achieve a comprehensive development vision that combines the governorate's agricultural heritage with modern economic aspirations, while empowering farmers and productive families to strengthen their contribution to the national economy.