How Saudi Arabia is building a sustainable agricultural sector through innovation

The farm in Wadi Bin Hashbal, Asir, covers over 3.2 million square meters and is recognized by the Guinness World Records. (Supplied photos/File))
Short Url
Updated 09 June 2024
Follow

How Saudi Arabia is building a sustainable agricultural sector through innovation

  • A vertical farm in Riyadh has produced a greater yield of strawberries than local farmers at a fraction of the water usage
  • Wadi Bin Hashbal, the Kingdom’s Guinness World Record-breaking sustainable farm, uses treated water to irrigate its crops

RIYADH: Climate change poses a significant threat to agriculture, with serious implications for food security, livelihoods and access to water. That is why Saudi Arabia is adopting a range of innovative and sustainable farming practices.

As summer temperatures become more intense around the world, crop yields are dwindling and water scarcity mounting, raising the specter of food insecurity in some regions and higher prices on domestic and global markets.

Agriculture is also a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. About 24 percent of human-induced emissions are the result of agriculture, forestry and land use activities, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

To limit the environmental harm caused by farming while also adapting crop production to hotter, drier conditions, governments and businesses worldwide are adopting new technologies, methods and practices in pursuit of sustainable agriculture.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN, strategies for agriculture and forestry, unlike in other sectors, can simultaneously increase adaptive capacity and mitigate climate change if implemented sustainably.

Sustainable agriculture refers to methods and practices that preserve the environment, protect natural resources, ensure the security of food supply chains and provide sufficient returns for farmers.

Saudi Arabia has established several sustainable agriculture initiatives, including efforts to promote the use of treated water for irrigation and the adoption of soilless farming techniques — measures designed to meet the needs of a changing demographic.

By 2045, the world’s urban population is projected to increase by 1.5 times to 6 billion, according to the World Bank. With many more people leaving rural areas in search of opportunities in the cities, the way food is produced and distributed requires a rethink.

That is why Saudi Arabia is exploring the use of urban farming technology, including vertical farming or soilless culture, as a potential solution.




Vertical farming addresses the challenges of limited land availability, seasonality of crops, and a growing global population. (Shutterstock)

Vertical or soilless farming refers to a method of growing plants without the use of soil, whereby nutrients are delivered to the roots through water — a process also known as hydroponics.

Soilless plants utilize drip or mist irrigation techniques, enabling a more controlled dispensation of water, preventing water wastage. This technique saves 98 percent more water than traditional farming, according to the World Economic Forum.

Areas struggling with water scarcity, poor soil fertility, salinity, or sodicity could benefit from this method, not only to conserve water and reduce pesticide usage, but also to allow for year-round crop production.

The National Research and Development Center for Sustainable Agriculture, or Estidamah, is a standalone legal not-for-profit research center based in Saudi Arabia. Its vertical farming program aims to optimize crop production — mainly leafy vegetables and strawberries.




The National Research and Development Center for Sustainable Agriculture, or Estidamah, has been producing high-yield tomatoes at its greenhouses. (Estidamah photo)

To bolster this initiative, the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture set aside SR100 million ($27 million). In 2021, scientists from Estidamah and Wageningen University in The Netherlands managed to cultivate Estavana variety strawberries in a greenhouse in Riyadh.

The resulting strawberry yield, and that of two other varieties, was considerably greater than that of local farmers, demonstrating the technology’s immense potential.

However, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable agriculture is perhaps best demonstrated by the methods and practices used at Wadi Bin Hashbal — a mega farm situated in the mountainous southwestern Asir region.

“This farm is the largest sustainable research demonstration or experimental farm in the world, with an area exceeding 3.2 million square meters, as is recognized by the Guinness World Records,” Ahmed Al-Mujthal, director-general of the Ministry of Environment and Water’s Asir branch, told Arab News.

One of the most impressive features of the farm is its use of treated water to irrigate crops. “The treated water is divided into municipal and industrial wastewater, with each type requiring specific treatment plants,” said Al-Mujthal.

DID YOUKNOW?

• Saudi Arabia exports wheat, dates, dairy products, eggs, fish, poultry, fruits, vegetables and even flowers.

• Wadi bin Hashbal’s sustainable farm is recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest in the world using treated water to irrigate crops.

• Urban farming and treating wastewater for irrigation are some of the sustainable agricultural practices adopted by Saudi Arabia.

The primary treatment phase removes large particles and oils, the secondary treatment phase involves aerobic bacteria, and the tertiary treatment uses filters to remove remaining pollutants and odors.

“Chlorination is done to eliminate microbes and treated water is suitable for all uses except direct human consumption,” said Al-Mujthal. “The amount of water produced from the treatment plants in the Asir region exceeds 240,000 cubic meters per day.”

The treated water is then transported across the region to where it is needed. “There are four main treated water plants in the Asir region, all of which rely on the triple treatment method and are completely suitable for irrigating all crops,” Al-Mujthal added.

Wadi Bin Hashbal has about 16,000 trees yielding eight varieties of seasonal fruit, in addition to 2,400 non-fruiting local trees and a field designated for growing fodder and raising livestock. It also contains five protected, air-conditioned farms designated for research.




The success of the Kingdom’s sustainable agriculture projects bodes well for climate-vulnerable nations around the globe. (Supplied photos/File)

“More importantly is monitoring the quality of water and soil that is carried out on the farm by constantly taking samples and analyzing them in specialized laboratories accredited by the ministry,” said Al-Mujthal.

This is in addition to measuring the temperature and humidity in the soil, and the amount of rain and wind speed on the site through the climate station established on the farm.

The Asir region was strategically chosen for the farm as it is characterized by a unique geography, the fertility of its soil and its favorable climate.

“In general, the data received from the competent authorities indicates that the average rainfall in the Asir region exceeds 300 mm per year,” said Al-Mujthal. In mountainous areas with dense vegetation, rainfall can even exceed 500 mm per year.

“Other factors include the relative abundance of surface and groundwater in addition to the presence of excellent infrastructure in the Asir region for drainage and water treatment,” Al-Mujthal added.

The success of the Kingdom’s sustainable agriculture projects bodes well for climate-vulnerable nations around the globe that are struggling to adapt to water scarcity and rising temperatures.

Indeed, if crops can be grown sustainably in Saudi Arabia — one of the hottest and driest places on the planet — there is hope yet for agriculture in a changing world.
 

 


MWL hosts forum to foster dialogue, promote Islamic unity

MWL will host second edition of the Global Conference for Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought and Sects in March
Updated 7 min 38 sec ago
Follow

MWL hosts forum to foster dialogue, promote Islamic unity

  • Makkah conference will feature senior figures from various sects, denominations
  • Guide to common Islamic principles to be launched during forum

RIYADH: The Muslim World League will host the second edition of the Global Conference for Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought and Sects on March 6-7 in Makkah, Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

The conference will bring together leading muftis, scholars, intellectuals, and representatives from senior Islamic councils, jurisprudential academies, and religious institutions across different sects and denominations.

It will serve as a unified platform for fostering constructive dialogue among diverse Islamic traditions as well as coordinating efforts and resources to strengthen Islamic unity, while ensuring mutual respect for doctrinal diversity.

The forum also aims to overcome sectarian disputes that have historically led to division and conflict, and promote fraternity and cohesion through practical initiatives.

This year’s conference marks a critical step in transforming the principles outlined in the inaugural conference into actionable programs, SPA said.

Discussions will address issues such as enhancing intra-Islamic dialogue and cooperation.

A highlight of the conference will be the launch of the encyclopedia of Islamic intellectual convergence, prepared by the Center for Safeguarding Intellect.

The encyclopedia, developed with contributions from 60 Islamic scholars and thinkers, aims to serve as a comprehensive guide to common Islamic principles.


Arab countries welcome Saudi Arabia’s hosting of talks between US, Russia

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio shake hands in Riyadh. (SPA)
Updated 18 February 2025
Follow

Arab countries welcome Saudi Arabia’s hosting of talks between US, Russia

  • Russia, US agree to start working toward ending conflict in Ukraine

RIYADH: Arab countries on Tuesday welcomed Saudi efforts to host talks in Riyadh between the US and Russia on the Ukraine conflict.

Russia and the US agreed to start working toward ending the conflict in Ukraine and improving their diplomatic and economic ties, the two countries’ top diplomats said after the talks.

The UAE expressed “hope that the talks will serve as a significant step towards bridging differences, fostering communication and advancing dialogue to bring an end to the nearly three-year-long conflict,” the Emirates News Agency reported.

Its Ministry of Foreign Affairs commended the efforts of Saudi Arabia in hosting the talks “which reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting international peace efforts, and achieving global stability and prosperity.”

The ministry reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to supporting peaceful resolutions to conflicts and promoting international cooperation in addressing global challenges.

Majed Al-Ansari, the spokesperson for Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, welcomed Saudi efforts to lead the talks that “will hopefully result in peace in a struggle that has gone on for a very long time.”

Al-Ansari added: “We have called from day one for both parties to engage in a peaceful resolution of this war. This war has had huge humanitarian costs and great geopolitical (and) economic impact globally.”

Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry also welcomed the talks and expressed the hope that they would “lead to achieving their desired goals in enhancing security and stability in the world.”

Sufyan Qudah, Jordan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, commended Saudi Arabia for its pivotal role in hosting the talks and said they highlighted the Kingdom’s continuous efforts to foster comprehensive and just peace worldwide.

The Palestinian presidency said the talks were a culmination of the wise policy pursued by Saudi Arabia’s leadership, adding that it was “a policy that fosters regional and international stability and affirms Riyadh’s commitment to its effective role in achieving peace and security.”


Manga exhibition in Jeddah explores evolution of Japanese artform

Updated 18 February 2025
Follow

Manga exhibition in Jeddah explores evolution of Japanese artform

  • Event strengthens bonds of friendship, cooperation between Kingdom and Japan, says consul-general

JEDDAH: As Saudi Arabia and Japan celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, the Consulate-General of Japan in Jeddah is marking the milestone with Manga Hokusai Manga, a three-week art exhibition running until March 8.

Organized in collaboration with the Jeddah Historical Development Project and the Japan Foundation, the exhibition explores the evolution of Japanese manga from the 19th-century works of ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai to the modern format that has gained widespread popularity in the Kingdom.

‘Futatasumakura,’ 1981 by Hinao Sugiura. (AN photos/Supplied)

Hosted at Bait Amir Bahar in Al-Balad, one of Jeddah’s historic homes, the exhibition highlights both the similarities and contrasts between the artistic styles while showcasing the cultural depth of Japanese storytelling.

Rather than simply focusing on how Hokusai’s work influenced manga, the exhibition invites visitors to compare both styles and understand what makes them unique. It examines themes such as visual storytelling, artistic techniques and cultural participation across different eras.

HIGHLIGHT

The exhibition in Jeddah explores the evolution of Japanese manga from the 19th-century works of ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai to the modern format that has gained widespread popularity in the Kingdom.

Hokusai’s manga drawings, while sometimes resembling cartoons, encompass a wide variety of subjects, from nature to human expressions and everyday life. Unlike modern comics, his work was not centered on humor but balanced artistic instruction with entertainment — much like how manga today combines storytelling with visual artistry.

‘Portrait of Hokuai,’ 2015, by Sawa Sakura. (AN photos/Supplied)

Hokusai created his manga using woodblock printing, transferring the images onto paper in three primary colors: Black, gray and pale peach. The collection, comprising 4,000 illustrations across almost 800 pages, was published between 1814 and 1878 in 15 volumes bound with string.

The phrase denshin kaishu, which precedes the title, translates to “transmitting the spirit and learning the craft,” highlighting the collection’s educational purpose.

Hosted at Bait Amir Bahar in Al-Balad, one of Jeddah’s historic homes, the Manga Hokusai Manga exhibition showcases the cultural depth of Japanese storytelling. (AN photos/Supplied)

Hokusai Manga was originally used as a reference book for aspiring artists, much like today’s “How to Draw Manga” guides. Similar to modern fan-made manga, his work encouraged learning, copying and artistic experimentation.

In an exclusive interview with Arab News, Daisuke Yamamoto, the consul-general of Japan in Jeddah, described Hokusai as one of Japan’s greatest artists, modernizing traditional print styles through innovations in subject matter and composition.

Daisuke Yamamoto, Consul-general of Japan in Jeddah

“Hokusai transformed the ukiyo-e genre traditionally focused on images of fleeting pleasures — by shifting its emphasis from people to landscapes and the changing seasons,” Yamamoto said. “His print designs invited audiences to witness nature’s transience, capturing birds in flight, flowers in bloom and water in motion. Through his work, he blended an acute awareness of the fleeting with a deep appreciation for the timeless.”

According to an official statement, Hokusai’s work captured Japan’s diverse landscapes, portraying scenes and activities connected by shared symbols and narratives. He was among the first artists to both shape and be shaped by globalization, drawing from international influences and later inspiring European artists who adopted his decorative motifs, serialized compositions and vision of contemporary society. To this day, countless artists continue to engage with his legacy.

(This exhibition) provides an opportunity for a wide range of people to know about each other’s culture, which will be reflected in the future in their understanding of each other and facilitate all other aspects of cooperation.

Daisuke Yamamoto, Consul-general of Japan in Jeddah

Reflecting on the exhibition’s significance, Yamamoto highlighted its role in strengthening cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and Japan: “Holding this exhibition and other cultural events basically confirmed the excellent cultural cooperation between Japan and Saudi Arabia, and strengthens the bonds of friendship and cooperation, and provides an opportunity for a wide range of people to know about each other’s culture, which will be reflected in the future in their understanding of each other and facilitate all other aspects of cooperation.”

Hokusai’s manga drawings, while sometimes resembling cartoons, encompass a wide variety of subjects, from nature to human expressions and everyday life. (AN photos/Supplied)

Since the 1970s, Hokusai himself has appeared as a character in manga, reimagined by various artists in styles ranging from realistic portrayals to fantastical interpretations. This reflects manga’s evolution, blending historical figures with contemporary storytelling techniques.

Ukiyo-e, the popular art of the 18th and 19th centuries, foreshadowed comic techniques such as visualizing the invisible. However, its speech-like balloons often depicted dreams rather than dialogue, and weather lines were integrated into the scene rather than used as abstract symbols.

Hosted at Bait Amir Bahar in Al-Balad, one of Jeddah’s historic homes, the Manga Hokusai Manga exhibition showcases the cultural depth of Japanese storytelling. (AN photos/Supplied)

Hokusai’s most popular collection of printed drawings was named “manga.” While the collection is primarily known for its diverse subjects and painting style, its frequent portrayal of exaggerated expressions and acrobatic scenes has led many to associate “manga” with cartoons or humorous images.

When compared to the work of his contemporary, Utagawa Kuniyoshi, it becomes clear that Hokusai’s manga images were not necessarily intended to be funny.

In 19th-century Japan, the success of Hokusai’s manga was rooted in the balance between the mundane and the whimsical, instruction and entertainment. This blend helped secure the collection’s lasting appeal.

Today’s Japanese comics share similarities in content, particularly in their focus on capturing movement, and in their wide circulation, thanks to advancements in reproduction technology.

 


Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk app expands services for pilgrims

Updated 18 February 2025
Follow

Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk app expands services for pilgrims

  • The Nusuk app serves visitors from over 100 countries in 10 languages, offering more than 120 services to facilitate their arrival and experience

MAKKAH: The Nusuk app, the official guide for pilgrims visiting the holy sites, has introduced new services to enhance the visitor experience, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The updates include features that allow users to explore unique historical destinations, a tasbih service, a Hisnul Muslim guide for daily prayers and supplications, and Haramain Qur’anic recitations.

Additionally, the app offers awareness cards, interactive maps, an event calendar, and a comprehensive digital guide with multilingual instructions.

It also provides health information and services. Moreover, service providers can showcase their offerings electronically to Umrah pilgrims and visitors, according to the SPA.

The Nusuk app serves visitors from over 100 countries in 10 languages, offering more than 120 services to facilitate their arrival and experience.

Integrated with 25 government bodies and 10 business sector entities, the app aligns with the Kingdom’s digital transformation efforts to enhance technology use.

 


Saudi leadership congratulates Jordan king after successful surgery

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. (File/SPA)
Updated 18 February 2025
Follow

Saudi leadership congratulates Jordan king after successful surgery

  • King Abdullah left hospital on Tuesday after undergoing minor surgery
  • The 63-year-old monarch was admitted earlier in the day for an incisional hernia at King Hussein Medical City

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent cables of congratulations on Tuesday to Jordan’s King Abdullah after he underwent minor surgery.

In separate cables, the king and crown prince prayed for the Jordanian monarch’s health and happiness. 

King Abdullah left hospital on Tuesday after undergoing minor surgery, the Jordanian royal palace said.

The 63-year-old monarch was admitted earlier in the day for an incisional hernia at the country’s King Hussein Medical City.

He is set to resume his working schedule on Wednesday, according to the royal palace.