Coffee cultivation in the Asir region has seen remarkable growth in recent years, driven by farm expansion and rising production, according to the Coffee Cooperative Association in Rijal Almaa. Data from the association shows that annual production has exceeded 82,972 kg, with 764 farms currently in operation, all of which are productive, underscoring the sector's sustainability and efficiency.
Expansion in Coffee Farming
The total number of coffee trees has reached 254,101, including 143,744 fruit-bearing trees, reflecting continued agricultural expansion, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency. Farms vary in terrain, with 178 located on flat land and 2,656 on agricultural terraces. This highlights the strong link between coffee cultivation, the mountainous landscape, and traditional farming practices, alongside ongoing modernization efforts.
Ali Sayyad, CEO of the association, stated that the figures are based on field data collected and analyzed by the organization, reflecting steady growth in the region's coffee sector. He noted that the industry continues to expand, supported by growing farmer interest and the crop's economic and agricultural value, contributing to further development in the coming years.
Upcoming Coffee Festival
Rijal Almaa governorate is preparing to host the third Coffee Festival from April 28 to May 1 under the patronage of Prince Turki bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, governor of the Asir region. The event will bring together government and private entities, farmers, and coffee sector stakeholders, according to the SPA.
The festival aims to highlight the status of coffee in Rijal Almaa and strengthen its position as a promising agricultural product, given its economic and cultural significance. It also seeks to support farmers, enhance marketing opportunities, and improve production quality.
Festival Activities
The program will feature educational booths on coffee cultivation and processing, marketing exhibitions, and cultural and awareness activities that highlight the agricultural heritage linked to coffee farming in the region. The festival reflects Rijal Almaa's strong potential in coffee production and the growing interest in the sector through initiatives and programs that promote sustainability, boost the local economy, and support regional agricultural development goals.
With production topping 82,972 kg and a steady increase in the number of farms and trees, Asir's coffee sector is poised for further growth, bolstered by events like the upcoming festival that celebrate and advance this vital industry.
