Saudi Arabia profile detail

Section 1: Country Overview & Geographic Profile

1.1 Basic Country Information

Country Name	Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Capital City	Riyadh
BRICS Status	Extended Member (August 2023, Johannesburg Summit)
Total Population	35,300,280 (mid-2024, GASTAT Population Estimates) – 55.6% Saudi nationals (19.6 million) and 44.4% non-Saudi residents (15.7 million)
Population Growth Rate	4.7% total growth (2024 vs. 2023, GASTAT), driven largely by the increase in non-Saudi residents; Saudi natural growth rate approximately 2.0% per year
Rural Population (%)	~16% of total population (2023, World Bank estimate)
Urban Population (%)	~84% of total population (2023, World Bank); highly urbanised with Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam as major urban centres
GDP (Nominal)	USD 1,237.53 billion (2024, World Bank); SAR 4,789 billion (2025, GASTAT)
GDP per Capita	USD 35,048 (2024, World Bank/Trading Economics)
Agriculture’s Share of GDP	~2.5–3.0% of total GDP (World Bank 2023); agricultural sector contributed USD 31.5 billion (approximately SAR 118 billion) to GDP in 2024 (MEWA). Agriculture accounts for about 5–6% of non-oil GDP.
Agriculture’s Share of Employment	~2.4% of total workforce (2024 estimate, World Bank/ILO); small relative to population but significant in rural areas
HDI Rank	Very High Human Development; HDI Score: 0.90 (2023, UNDP/TheGlobalEconomy); historically ranked between 36th and 40th globally
Official Language(s)	Arabic (official language)
Currency	Saudi Riyal (SAR); pegged to the US Dollar at 1 USD = 3.75 SAR

1.2 Geographic Coordinates & Physical Extent

Total Geographic Area	2,149,690 km² – 12th largest country in the world and the largest country in the Middle East
Northernmost Latitude	32°14′ N (Jordan–Iraq border)
Southernmost Latitude	16°22′ N (Yemen border)
Easternmost Longitude	55°40′ E (UAE border, Arabian Gulf coast)
Westernmost Longitude	34°34′ E (Red Sea coast, Gulf of Aqaba)
Geographic Centre (Approx.)	24° N, 45° E (near the Riyadh region)
Total Coastline Length	~2,640 km (Red Sea: ~1,760 km; Arabian Gulf: ~560 km)
Land Border Length	~4,272 km (Iraq: 811 km; Jordan: 731 km; Kuwait: 221 km; Oman: 658 km; Qatar: 87 km; UAE: 457 km; Yemen: 1,307 km)
Number of Bordering Countries	7 – Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Yemen
Highest Elevation Point	Jabal Sawda, 3,015 m – Asir Mountains (southwestern Saudi Arabia)
Lowest Elevation Point	Persian Gulf and Red Sea coastlines (0 m above sea level)
Major River Systems	No permanent rivers. Seasonal wadis include Wadi al-Rummah (~600 km, one of the longest in the Arabian Peninsula), Wadi Hanifah, Wadi Bisha, and Wadi Najran.
Major Lakes	No natural freshwater lakes. Water resources are mainly stored in artificial reservoirs created by approximately 588 dams with a combined capacity of about 2.4 billion cubic metres (BCM). Sabkha salt flats occur in eastern lowland areas.

1.3 Administrative Divisions Relevant to Agriculture

Saudi Arabia is divided into 13 administrative regions (Manatiq), each governed by a regional emir. Agriculture is concentrated in the Riyadh, Qassim, Ha’il, Tabuk, Jazan, and Asir regions. The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) serves as the primary national authority responsible for agricultural development and resource management.

Primary Division (Regions)	13 Administrative Regions (Manatiq): Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, Qassim, Eastern Province, Asir, Tabuk, Ha’il, Northern Borders, Jazan, Najran, Al-Baha, and Al-Jawf
Secondary Division (Governorates)	~136 Governorates (Muhafazat)
Tertiary Division (Sub-governorates/Centres)	~1,300+ Centres (Marakiz)
Lowest Agricultural Planning Unit	Individual farm level – registered with the respective MEWA regional directorate
Special Agricultural Zones	Qassim Region ("Food Basket of Saudi Arabia" – major date production); Ha’il (wheat, barley, fruit orchards); Jazan (tropical crops including mangoes, papayas, and coffee); Tabuk (fruit orchards and wheat); Al-Jouf (olive capital with one of the world's largest olive plantations); Asir Highlands (coffee, honey, and terraced farming)

Classification System Used	Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) National Agro-Climatic Classification System, aligned with the FAO Agro-Ecological Zones (AEZ) framework. The country is divided into five major agro-climatic regions based on climate, altitude, and water availability.
Total Number of Agro-Climatic Zones	5 major zones: Central Plateau (Najd), Eastern Coastal Region, Western Highlands (Hejaz–Asir), Northern Region, and Southern/Jazan Tihama Region.
Basis of Classification	Classification is based on rainfall patterns, temperature regimes, altitude, soil characteristics, and dominant water sources such as groundwater, rainfall, and wadi systems.
Reference Authority	Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA), General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST).

AGRO-CLIMATIC ZONE 1 – CENTRAL PLATEAU (NAJD)
Zone Name	Central Plateau (Najd) – including Riyadh, Qassim, and Ha’il regions.
Area Coverage	Approximately 700,000 km², representing about 33% of Saudi Arabia’s total land area.
Annual Rainfall	Around 75–150 mm per year, highly erratic and concentrated mainly during the winter months (November–March).
Average Temperature	Annual average temperature ranges between 24–28°C. Summer temperatures often reach 38–50°C, while winter temperatures range from 5–22°C, with occasional frost in Ha’il.
Dominant Soil Types	Sandy soils (Arenosols), calcareous and gravelly soils with low organic matter content.
Major Crops Grown	Dates (Qassim is the leading date-producing region), wheat, barley, irrigated vegetables, alfalfa, and fruit orchards.
Key Challenges	Extreme heat, depletion of groundwater resources, frequent sandstorms, and limited rainfall availability.

AGRO-CLIMATIC ZONE 2 – EASTERN COASTAL PLAIN (Arabian Gulf)
Zone Name	Eastern Coastal Plain – Eastern Province (Al-Ahsa and Qatif Oases)
Area Coverage	Approximately 200,000 km².
Annual Rainfall	Less than 80 mm per year; extremely arid climate with very low precipitation and high atmospheric humidity.
Average Temperature	Annual average temperature ranges from 26–30°C. Summer temperatures frequently reach 40–50°C and are accompanied by very high humidity levels.
Major Crops Grown	Date palms (Al-Ahsa is a UNESCO World Heritage Oasis with more than 3 million date palms), rice, vegetables, and alfalfa grown under irrigated conditions.
Key Challenges	Soil and groundwater salinity, rising sea levels, extreme humidity, rapid urban expansion, and increasing pressure on agricultural land and water resources.

Zone Name	Western Highlands – Hejaz and Asir mountain ranges
Area Coverage	~100,000 km²
Annual Rainfall	200–500 mm/year (highest rainfall region in Saudi Arabia), largely due to orographic rainfall in the Asir Mountains.
Average Temperature	18–24°C owing to elevations of 1,500–3,000 m above sea level; frost and occasional snowfall may occur at higher peaks.
Major Crops Grown	Khawlani Arabica coffee Honey production Wheat and barley Temperate fruits (grapes, pomegranates, figs, peaches) Terrace-based agriculture Juniper forests and agroforestry systems
Key Challenges	Rugged mountainous terrain, maintenance of traditional terraces, labour shortages, and vulnerability to flash floods.

Zone Name	Northern Region – semi-arid steppe zone transitioning toward a continental climate, including Al-Jawf, Tabuk, and Northern Borders Province.
Area Coverage	Approximately 450,000 km².
Annual Rainfall	Around 50–100 mm per year, with precipitation occurring mainly during the winter season.
Average Temperature	Annual average temperature ranges from 20–24°C. Winter temperatures generally vary between 0–15°C, with frost being common, while summer temperatures reach 35–45°C.
Major Crops Grown	Olives (Al-Jawf hosts one of the world's largest olive plantations) Wheat Barley Fruit orchards Grapes, citrus fruits, and stone fruits in Tabuk
Key Challenges	Cold winters, frost-related crop damage, groundwater depletion, long transport distances, and the remoteness of agricultural production areas.

Zone Name	Southern Tihama Coastal Plain – covering Jazan Region and the southern Red Sea coastal belt.
Area Coverage	Approximately 20,000 km².
Annual Rainfall	Around 100–300 mm per year. This region receives the highest moisture levels among Saudi Arabia’s lowland areas and is influenced by the fringe effects of the Indian Ocean monsoon system.
Average Temperature	Annual average temperature ranges between 28–32°C. The climate is tropical with high humidity throughout the year.
Major Crops Grown	Mangoes Papayas Bananas Sorghum Millet Sesame Coffee (cultivated on adjoining mountain slopes) Various tropical fruits
Key Challenges	Seasonal flooding, high pest and disease pressure, limited agricultural infrastructure, and logistical challenges associated with the region’s proximity to the Yemen conflict zone.

Köppen Climate Classification	BWh (Hot Desert) dominates more than 90% of the country. BSh (Hot Semi-Arid) occurs in the south-western highlands, while BWk (Cold Desert) is found in some northern fringe areas.
Dominant Climate Type	Hyper-arid to hot desert climate. Approximately 90% of Saudi Arabia is covered by desert landscapes, making agriculture heavily dependent on groundwater extraction and desalinated water resources.
Monsoon Season	No direct monsoon system affects Saudi Arabia. However, the Jazan and Asir regions receive limited moisture from the fringe effects of the Indian Ocean monsoon during July–September.
Number of Distinct Seasons	Two primary seasons: Hot Summer: April–October Mild to Cool Winter: November–March Short transitional spring and autumn periods occur between these seasons.

National Average Annual Rainfall	Approximately 80–120 mm per year, making Saudi Arabia one of the driest countries in the world.
Highest Rainfall Zone	Asir Mountains (South-Western Highlands) receive around 300–500 mm/year, while Jazan Region receives approximately 100–300 mm/year.
Lowest Rainfall Zone	Rub al-Khali (Empty Quarter) receives less than 30–50 mm/year, with some areas experiencing virtually no rainfall for several consecutive years.
Rainfall Distribution	Rainfall is highly erratic and seasonal. More than 70% of annual precipitation occurs during: November–April in northern and central regions July–September in the south-western highlands Short-duration, high-intensity storms frequently result in flash flooding.
Drought-Prone Areas	The entire country is considered drought-prone. The Rub al-Khali, An-Nafud, and Ad-Dahna deserts are permanently arid and highly vulnerable to prolonged water scarcity.
Flood-Prone Areas	Flash floods frequently occur in wadi systems of Asir and Jazan. Riyadh occasionally experiences flooding associated with Wadi Hanifah, while Jeddah witnessed severe urban flood events in 2009 and 2011.
Groundwater Recharge Rate	Natural recharge is extremely limited for major fossil aquifers such as the Saq, Wajid, and Tabuk aquifer systems. Recharge rates are generally insufficient to offset large-scale groundwater extraction for agriculture.

Mean Annual Temperature	National average temperature ranges between 25–28°C. Temperatures reach approximately 33°C in the Rub al-Khali (Empty Quarter), while the cooler Asir Highlands record averages of 18–22°C.
Hottest Month & Temperature	July–August are the hottest months, with average temperatures of 35–45°C. Absolute maximum temperatures exceeding 52°C have been recorded in eastern desert regions.
Coldest Month & Temperature	January is generally the coldest month, with average temperatures of 8–15°C in Riyadh and Ha’il. Frost is common in northern and highland areas, and occasional snowfall occurs on the highest peaks of the Asir Mountains.
Heat Stress Threshold for Crops	Wheat yields decline significantly when temperatures exceed 30°C during grain filling. Most vegetable crops experience severe heat stress above 40°C. Date palms are highly heat-tolerant and can withstand temperatures up to 50°C.
Chilling Requirement Crops	Temperate fruit crops such as apples, peaches, and pears are cultivated in the cooler high-altitude regions of Asir and Al-Baha, where sufficient winter chill hours are available.
Temperature Trend (Last 30 Years)	Average temperatures have increased by approximately 0.3–0.6°C per decade according to PME/GAMEP observations. Warming is particularly pronounced in urban areas such as Riyadh due to the urban heat island effect.

Observed Climate Anomalies	Saudi Arabia is experiencing increasing climate variability, including: More frequent and prolonged heat waves Less frequent but more intense rainfall events Accelerating depletion of groundwater resources Increasing occurrence and severity of sandstorms and dust storms
Projected Temperature Rise by 2050	Climate projections from IPCC AR6 indicate a temperature increase of approximately 2.0–3.0°C above pre-industrial levels by 2050. Some climate models project warming of up to 4°C in the interior regions of the Arabian Peninsula.
Most Vulnerable Crops / Regions	The most climate-vulnerable agricultural systems include: Groundwater-dependent oasis agriculture in Al-Ahsa and Al-Jawf Wheat production reliant on non-renewable fossil aquifers Outdoor summer vegetable cultivation exposed to extreme heat stress Regions with declining groundwater availability and rising evapotranspiration
National Climate Adaptation Policy	Major climate adaptation initiatives include: Saudi Green Initiative (2021) National Environment Strategy Updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 2021 targeting emission reductions of approximately 278 MtCO₂eq by 2030 MEWA Water Conservation Strategy
Climate-Smart Agriculture Programs	Key climate-smart agriculture measures include: Reduction of non-renewable agricultural water use by approximately 52% since 2016 (MEWA) National cloud seeding programme to enhance rainfall Expansion of solar-powered irrigation systems Transition from water-intensive wheat production to less water-demanding crops Development of sustainable food production systems under the NEOM project

Initiative / Technology	Implementing Institution	Description	Impact / Benefit
Saudi Green Initiative	Government of Saudi Arabia (Vision 2030)	National environmental programme aiming to plant 10 billion trees, restore 40 million hectares of degraded land, and protect 30% of terrestrial and marine areas.	Supports large-scale reforestation, carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and rehabilitation of degraded rangelands and ecosystems.
52% Reduction in Agricultural Water Use	MEWA	Significant reduction in the use of non-renewable groundwater since 2015–2016 through crop policy reforms, including the gradual phase-out of water-intensive wheat cultivation and adoption of efficient irrigation systems.	Saved billions of cubic metres of groundwater, reduced pressure on fossil aquifers, and extended the lifespan of strategic water resources.
Agricultural Development Fund (ADF) Loans	ADF / MEWA	Provision of concessional financing and multi-billion SAR loan programmes for agriculture, livestock, greenhouse farming, aquaculture, and agricultural technology investments.	Accelerated adoption of modern irrigation systems, greenhouse cultivation, poultry production, dairy expansion, and agri-tech innovation.
100,000 Greenhouse Initiative	MEWA / Private Sector	Expansion of protected cultivation through greenhouses and shade-house technologies. Approximately 7,800 hectares are under protected vegetable cultivation (GASTAT 2024).	Produced approximately 797,000 tonnes of protected vegetables in 2024 while significantly improving water-use efficiency and crop productivity.
NEOM Agri-Food Systems	NEOM / Public Investment Fund (PIF)	Development of advanced agricultural and aquaculture systems within NEOM, including the OXAGON Aquaculture Hub and innovative desert-based food production technologies.	Target production exceeds 50,000 tonnes of fish annually and supports next-generation desert-to-plate food systems and sustainable food security.
Cloud Seeding Program	PME / MEWA	Weather modification programme utilizing cloud seeding technologies to enhance rainfall in selected regions with suitable atmospheric conditions.	Demonstrated measurable increases in precipitation within pilot areas, contributing to water resource augmentation and drought mitigation efforts.

Season Name	Local Name	Months	Regions Covered	Major Crops
Winter (Primary Season)	Shitawi / Shita	November – April	All irrigated agricultural regions	Wheat, barley, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, alfalfa, and other winter vegetables. Date palm harvest occurs mainly from August to November.
Summer Season	Saifi	May – October	Protected cultivation areas, irrigated farms, and southern regions such as Jazan	Sorghum, millet, sesame, melons, fodder crops, and greenhouse-grown vegetables.
Perennial / Year-round Production	—	January – December	All agro-climatic zones	Date palms, olives, citrus orchards, grapes, and alfalfa, which can produce approximately 6–8 harvest cuts per year under irrigated conditions.

Category	Production / Status	Key Details
Staple Cereals	Wheat: ~1.1–1.2 million tonnes (2024); approximately 71–72% of total grain production. Total grain production: ~1.651 million tonnes (2024). Barley: ~0.18–0.25 million tonnes (estimated). Sorghum and millet cultivated mainly in southern regions.	Wheat occupies approximately 250,000 hectares with an average yield of about 6.0 t/ha. Sorghum and millet are important traditional crops in Jazan and Asir.
Pulses / Legumes	Limited domestic production.	Most pulses and legumes are imported to meet national demand.
Oilseeds	Minimal domestic production.	Sesame is cultivated mainly in Jazan, while the majority of edible oils are imported.
Root & Tuber Crops	Potatoes: ~624,000 tonnes (2024).	Potatoes are the leading open-field vegetable crop and contribute significantly to domestic food supply.
Vegetables (Major)	Open-field production: ~2.7–2.8 million tonnes from ~89,700 ha (2024). Protected cultivation: ~797,000 tonnes from ~7,800 ha (2024).	Major crops include potatoes, watermelon, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Greenhouse production increased by approximately 10.6% in 2024. Self-sufficiency levels exceed 100% for eggplant, okra, cucumber, and zucchini.
Fruits (Major)	Total fruit production exceeds 2.9 million tonnes annually with an estimated self-sufficiency level of 64%.	Dates are the dominant fruit crop with production of approximately 1.923 million tonnes. Other important fruits include grapes, citrus fruits, watermelon, pomegranates, and figs, with fig self-sufficiency approaching 99%.
Plantation Crops	Olive cultivation expanding rapidly; specialty coffee production growing.	Al-Jawf hosts one of the world's largest olive plantations. Premium Khawlani Arabica coffee is produced in the highlands of Jazan and Asir.
Spices & Condiments	Limited production.	Small-scale cultivation of cumin, coriander, and other traditional spices occurs in southern mountain regions.
Flowers & Ornamentals	Growing commercial sector.	Taif roses are internationally known for rose water and essential oil production. Urban greening programs are stimulating demand for ornamental plants.
Medicinal & Aromatic Plants	Niche but high-value sector.	Sidr honey derived from Ziziphus trees is a premium product. Traditional medicinal herbs are cultivated and collected in the Asir highlands.

Category	Details / Production	Notes
Major Cash Crops	Dates: ~1.9–2.0 million tonnes (Saudi Arabia is among the world’s largest producers, second after Egypt). Vegetables: Produced mainly for domestic consumption. Olives: Expanding cultivation, especially in northern regions.	Dates remain the most important cash crop, forming a key part of both domestic food supply and export-oriented agri-economy.
Industrial Crops	Very limited commercial industrial cropping. Alfalfa hay is a major livestock feed crop and is sometimes exported. Wheat is primarily a government-purchased strategic crop.	Industrial crop diversification is constrained by water scarcity and arid climatic conditions.
Bioenergy Crops	Currently at research and pilot stage only.	Experiments include Jatropha and algae-based biofuel projects; large-scale bioenergy crop production is not yet commercially established.
Fibre Crops	No commercial production.	Fibre crop cultivation is not viable at scale under current climatic and water constraints.
Beverage Crops	Khawlani Arabica coffee (Jazan and Asir highlands).	Premium specialty coffee with UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage recognition (2022), positioned as a high-value niche export product.

Indicator	Value / Estimate	Key Notes
Cropping Intensity (National Average)	~100–120%	Most agricultural land supports only one crop cycle per year due to severe water constraints. Limited double cropping is possible in irrigated systems.
Average Crop Yield – Cereals	Wheat: ~6.0 t/ha (2024/25, USDA-FAS) Barley: ~2.5–3.0 t/ha	Wheat yield is relatively high due to intensive irrigation, while barley remains a hardy crop suited to arid conditions.
Total Food Grain Production	~1.6–1.7 million tonnes (2024)	Data from GASTAT indicates stable but limited grain output, heavily dependent on irrigation-based systems.
Total Horticulture Production	~6+ million tonnes (2024)	Includes ~3.542 million tonnes of vegetables (open-field and protected cultivation) and ~2.9 million tonnes of fruits. Horticulture is the dominant agricultural subsector in the Kingdom.

Crop	Important Varieties (Saudi Arabia)	Average Yield (t/ha)	Notes
Wheat	Yecora Rojo (hard winter wheat, CIMMYT origin), locally adapted improved varieties	~6.0 (USDA-FAS 2024/25)	Production ~1.1–1.2 million tonnes (2024, GASTAT); ~250,000 ha cultivated area; government procurement price ~SAR 1,800/t (~$480/t)
Dates	Khalas, Sukkari, Ajwa, Barhi, Khudri, Mabroom, Safawi, Sagai, Nabtat Ali	~6 (ICARDA GCC average)	~1,923 thousand tonnes production; ~37.6 million palms (32 million fruitful, 2024 GASTAT). Saudi Arabia is the world’s 2nd largest producer with >100% self-sufficiency.
Potatoes	Spunta, Hermes, Diamant (imported seed)	25–35	~624,000 tonnes (2024, GASTAT); leading open-field vegetable crop.
Tomatoes	Hybrid F1 varieties (greenhouse & open-field)	40–80 (greenhouse); 25–35 (open-field)	Major vegetable crop with strong greenhouse expansion; ~9.2% increase in self-sufficiency (2024 GASTAT).
Watermelon	Crimson Sweet, Sugar Baby, hybrids	25–40	~612,000 tonnes (2024 GASTAT); major production zones: Qassim and Ha’il.
Olives	Picual, Manzanilla, Arbequina (Spanish varieties)	3–5 (oil equivalent)	Al-Jawf region hosts the world’s largest olive plantation; production expanding rapidly.
Grapes	Thompson Seedless, Red Globe, Flame	10–20	Major production in Tabuk and Ha’il regions; expanding commercial viticulture under irrigation.
Alfalfa	Local and imported varieties	15–25 (irrigated, 6–8 cuts/year)	Major fodder crop; highly water-intensive. Government is actively reducing domestic production and increasing imports to conserve groundwater.
Coffee (Khawlani)	Coffea arabica (Khawlani landrace)	0.3–0.5	Grown in Jazan and Asir highlands; UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (2022). Premium specialty coffee fetching $50–200/kg.
Citrus	Valencia Orange, Eureka Lemon, Lime	12–18	Cultivated in Jazan, Asir, and Tabuk regions under irrigated systems.

Land Use Category	Area	Description
Total Geographic Area	~2,149,690 km² (≈215 million ha)	Entire land area of the country, dominated by desert ecosystems with limited arable land potential.
Total Agricultural Land	~173.4 million ha (FAO/World Bank classification)	Includes extensive desert rangelands and grazing areas; however, productive agricultural use is highly limited due to aridity.
Net Cultivated / Arable Area	~1.5–1.7 million ha	Only ~0.7–0.8% of total land is actively cultivated. Concentrated around irrigated oases and modern agricultural projects.
Gross Cropped Area	~1.8–2.0 million ha	Includes some double-cropped irrigated areas, especially under controlled cultivation systems.
Forest Area	~2.7 million ha	Mostly limited to Asir highlands (juniper forests) and planted forestry belts; very low forest density overall.
Permanent Pastures / Grazing Lands	~170+ million ha	Vast but extremely sparse desert rangelands with low carrying capacity; supports extensive livestock grazing systems.
Barren / Unculturable Land	~40%+ of total area	Includes major deserts such as Rub al-Khali, An-Nafud, and Ad-Dahna, along with gravel plains and volcanic lava fields.

Category	Details	Description / Notes
Total Irrigated Area	~1.5–1.6 million ha	Nearly all cultivated agriculture is irrigated; rainfed farming is extremely limited and restricted to small areas in the southwestern highlands.
Groundwater Irrigation	~14–16 BCM/year extraction	Main irrigation source (70–80% of total water use). Relies heavily on non-renewable fossil aquifers such as Saq-Ram, Wajid, Tabuk, Minjur, and Biyadh formations.
Desalination for Agriculture	Indirect / limited use	Around 70 desalination plants primarily supply municipal water. Some treated wastewater is reused for fodder cultivation and landscaping. Total desalination capacity is ~7.6 MCM/day.
Drip & Sprinkler Irrigation	~60–70% centre-pivot systems	Centre-pivot irrigation dominates wheat and alfalfa production. Drip irrigation is mandatory for new horticulture projects under MEWA regulations.
Dams & Storage	~588 dams (~2.4 BCM capacity)	Primarily used for flood control and groundwater recharge rather than direct irrigation supply.
Water Use Efficiency Programs	National reduction initiatives	~52% reduction in non-renewable agricultural water use since 2016 under Vision 2030; ongoing optimization through National Water Strategy.
Treated Wastewater Reuse	~1.8 BCM/year	Increasing use of treated sewage effluent for agriculture, irrigation, and urban landscaping.

Parameter	Details	Description / Notes
Average Farm Size	Highly variable (2–10 ha to 10,000+ ha)	Smallholder farms (2–10 ha) dominate in date palm and vegetable production, while large corporate farms (500–10,000+ ha) such as NADEC, Almarai, and Al-Rajhi Farms dominate commercial agriculture.
Smallholder Farm Share	~70–80% of farms	Majority of farms are small-scale (<10 ha), mainly traditional oasis and highland systems, but they contribute a smaller share of total agricultural output.
Large Farms (>100 ha)	~5–10% of farms	Despite their small number, large farms contribute more than 50% of commercial agricultural output, especially in dairy, poultry, wheat, and horticulture sectors.
Land Tenure System	Government-granted & corporate leasing	Historically based on state land distribution to Saudi nationals. Today dominated by corporate leases and agribusiness holdings, with some tribal/traditional tenure in rural regions.
Land Reform Status	Regulated allocation system	1968 public land distribution policy followed by large-scale agribusiness land grants (1970s–1990s). Some allocations were later revoked due to groundwater overuse. Current MEWA policy restricts new agricultural land expansion to conserve water resources.
Women’s Land Ownership	Not formally disaggregated	Women have legal rights to own property under Saudi law, but participation in agricultural land ownership remains limited and not systematically reported.

Parameter	Details	Description / Notes
Classification System Used	USDA Soil Taxonomy; FAO-UNESCO framework	Supported by national soil surveys conducted by MEWA, King Saud University, and related research institutions.
Total Soil Orders Present	3 dominant soil orders: • Aridisols (>60%) • Entisols (~25%) • Minor Alfisols and Vertisols (SW highlands)	Soil distribution reflects extreme arid climate conditions, with limited soil development and low organic matter in most regions.
Soil Survey Authority	MEWA Soils & Water Department; King Saud University (College of Agriculture); KACST	Responsible for national soil mapping, classification, and agricultural suitability assessments across the Kingdom.

Soil Type	USDA Order	Area (est.)	Zones / Regions	Key Properties	Suitable Crops
Sandy Desert Soils	Entisols (Torripsamments)	~55% of territory	Rub al-Khali, An-Nafud, Ad-Dahna	Deep sand; very low organic matter (<0.3%); extremely low water retention; pH 7.5–8.5	Date palms only in irrigated oases; otherwise largely uncultivable
Calcareous Desert Soils	Aridisols (Petrocalcids / Calcids)	~25% of territory	Central Najd, Northern Plains	Calcium carbonate accumulation; alkaline conditions; moderate drainage; phosphorus fixation issues	Wheat, barley, vegetables under irrigation and soil amendment
Sabkha / Salt Flat Soils	Aridisols (Salids)	~5% of territory	Eastern Coast, Rub al-Khali margins	Extremely high salinity (>200 dS/m); waterlogged conditions; presence of gypsum and halite	Not suitable for conventional agriculture; halophyte research only
Mountain Soils	Alfisols / Entisols (Lithic)	~3–5% of territory	Asir, Hejaz Mountains, Jazan Highlands	Shallow, rocky soils with moderate fertility; higher organic matter; pH 6.5–7.5	Coffee, terraced crops, temperate fruits, limited wheat cultivation
Oasis Alluvial Soils	Entisols (Torrifluvents)	<1% of territory	Al-Ahsa, Qatif, Madinah, Al-Ula	Loamy soils with moderate fertility; historically improved through centuries of irrigation and cultivation	Dates, vegetables, alfalfa – among the most productive agricultural soils
Wadi Alluvium Soils	Entisols (Torrifluvents)	Scattered	Wadi systems across the country	Sandy-loam soils formed by flood deposition; highly variable fertility	Seasonal crops and fruit trees where water availability exists

Indicator	Value / Status	Description / Notes
National Average Soil pH	7.5–8.8	Predominantly alkaline soils across the Kingdom due to widespread calcareous desert conditions.
Organic Carbon Status	Very low (<0.5% in >95% of soils)	Extremely low organic matter content is typical of arid environments; slightly higher levels (1–2%) occur in mountainous highlands.
Salinity-Affected Area	Significant (regional hotspots)	Severe salinity issues in Eastern Province, coastal zones, and intensively irrigated agricultural lands; national coverage not precisely quantified by GASTAT.
Major Soil Degradation Threats	High risk across arid zones	Wind erosion is the dominant degradation process, followed by irrigation-induced salinization, desertification of marginal lands, and decline of oasis ecosystems.
Soil Conservation Programs	National initiatives	Saudi Green Initiative (including 10 billion trees program for soil stabilization), MEWA soil monitoring programs, and research initiatives led by King Abdulaziz University and other institutions.

Livestock Category	Population (Latest Estimate)	Key Details / Notes
Sheep Population	~29 million heads (2023, GASTAT)	Composition: ~19.3% rams, ~80.7% ewes. Highest concentration in Riyadh region. Major breeds include Najdi, Naemi, Awassi, and Harri.
Goat Population	~7.3 million heads (2024, GASTAT)	Slight decline (~1% YoY). Goats are widely distributed in rural and desert pastoral systems.
Camel Population	~2.24 million heads (2024, GASTAT)	Increasing by ~1–1.4% YoY. Riyadh region holds ~29.4% of total population. Important breeds include Majaheem (dairy) and Waddah (racing).
Cattle Population	~516,000 heads (2024, GASTAT)	Growth of ~2.8% YoY. Includes commercial dairy herds such as Holstein-Friesian and operations under Almarai and NADEC.
Poultry (Broilers)	~1.25–1.3 million tonnes (2024, GASTAT)	Production increased by ~13% from 2023. Riyadh is the leading production hub (~282,000 tonnes in 2023).
Poultry (Eggs / Layers)	~8.42 billion eggs (2024, GASTAT)	Up from ~7.91 billion eggs in 2023 (+6.3% YoY). Riyadh region leads production with ~3.21 billion eggs.
Equine Population	~80,000–100,000+ horses (est.)	Arabian horses hold cultural and economic significance. Supported by racing industry and royal breeding programs.
Honey Bee Colonies	~1.0–1.5 million colonies (est.)	Strong apiculture sector producing premium Sidr and mountain flower honeys, especially in Asir and Jazan regions.

Agro-Climatic Zone 3 – Western Highlands (Hejaz–Asir Mountains)

Agro-Climatic Zone 4 – Northern Region (Al-Jawf, Tabuk, Northern Borders)

Agro-Climatic Zone 5 – Southern Tihama Coastal Plain (Jazan)

12.2 Nutrition & Food Security Status

Indicator	Value	Notes / Description
Total Raw Milk Production (Cow)	~2.8 billion litres (2023, GASTAT)	Production mainly from specialized dairy farms. Riyadh leads with ~1.6 billion litres, followed by Eastern Province (~1 billion litres). Slight decline (~0.4%) in 2024 due to reduced milking herd size.
Dairy Self-Sufficiency	~131% (2024, GASTAT)	Indicates surplus production; Saudi Arabia is a net exporter of dairy products, especially within GCC and MENA markets (major player: Almarai).
Total Broiler Meat Production	~1.25 million tonnes (2024, GASTAT)	Strong growth of ~13% compared to 2023 (1.1 million tonnes), driven by large-scale commercial poultry integration.
Poultry Self-Sufficiency	Increasing (~+1.4% in 2024)	Continuous expansion of domestic poultry production to reduce import dependence.
Table Egg Self-Sufficiency	~103% (2024, GASTAT)	Domestic production exceeds demand, creating a surplus and enabling limited exports.
Red Meat Production	~40–45% domestic supply	Majority of red meat is imported. Live sheep imports from Australia, Sudan, Somalia; beef imports mainly from Brazil and India.
Livestock Sector GDP Contribution	~2.5–3% of agriculture GDP	Supported by over SAR 2 billion in agricultural loans (ADF/MEWA, 2024) for livestock expansion and modernization.
Major Dairy Companies	Almarai, NADEC, Saudia Dairy	Almarai is the world’s largest integrated dairy company with 190,000+ cows. Major expansion plan (~SAR 18B / $4.8B) announced in Dec 2024.

Sector	Species / Product	Major Breeds / Companies	Avg Productivity	National Production
Dairy (Cow)	Holstein-Friesian	Almarai (~110,000 cows), NADEC, Saudia Dairy	~10,000–12,000 L/cow/year (Almarai)	~2.8 billion litres (2023, GASTAT); >100% self-sufficient
Broiler Meat	Cobb 500, Ross 308	Al-Watania, Fakieh Poultry, NADEC, Tanmiah	~2.2 kg in 35–42 days	~1.25 million tonnes (2024, GASTAT)
Table Eggs	Hy-Line, Lohmann, ISA Brown	Al-Watania, Jabal Omar, NADEC	~280 eggs/bird/year	~8.42 billion eggs (2024, GASTAT); 103% self-sufficient
Sheep/Goat Meat	Najdi, Naemi, Awassi, Harri	Traditional + feedlot operations	~15–25 kg carcass	~40–45% red meat self-sufficiency
Camel Products	Majaheem (dairy), Waddah (racing)	Camelicious KSA, traditional herders	~5–8 L/day milk	~2.24 million camels; dual-purpose dairy and racing industry

Parameter	Value	Description / Notes
Total Coastline	~2,640 km	Includes ~1,760 km along the Red Sea and ~560 km along the Arabian Gulf, supporting diverse marine ecosystems.
Major Fishing Zones	Red Sea & Arabian Gulf	Red Sea coast: Jazan, Jeddah, Yanbu, NEOM region. Arabian Gulf coast: Dammam, Jubail, and broader Eastern Province.
Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)	~225,000+ km²	Combined EEZ across the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, providing significant potential for fisheries and marine resource development.

Indicator	Value	Description / Notes
Total Fish & Seafood Production	~220,000–250,000 tonnes (2023)	Data from GAFRD via MEWA. Production increased by ~55.6% from 90,000 tonnes in 2021. National target is ~600,000 tonnes by 2030 under aquaculture expansion strategy.
Marine Capture Fisheries	~74,700 tonnes (2023)	Represents ~35% of total fish production; declining share as aquaculture continues to expand.
Aquaculture Production	~120,000–140,000 tonnes/year (2023)	Accounts for ~65% of total production; increased sharply from 17,283 tonnes in 2012. Around 75% marine-based projects and 25% inland fish farms.
Major Aquaculture Species	Shrimp, Tilapia, Sea Bass, Sea Bream	Includes barramundi and catfish. Emerging pilot production of salmon in Hail, targeting ~100,000 tonnes/year capacity.
Fish Exports	~59,844 tonnes (~SAR 1.1 billion)	Exported to ~35 countries including Japan, China, USA, Australia, and South Korea.
Fish Self-Sufficiency	Shrimp: 149% (2024)	Overall fish production increased by ~8.2% in 2024; shrimp sector is export-surplus driven.
Per Capita Fish Consumption	~11–13 kg/year	Below global average (~21.3 kg). Government target is ~20 kg per capita by 2030.
Key Companies	NAQUA, Saudi Fisheries Company, Tabuk Fisheries, Jazadco, NEOM Topian	NAQUA (PIF-backed via SALIC) is a major global shrimp producer. NEOM Topian Aquaculture JV aims to develop large-scale hatchery systems in the region.

Initiative / Program	Implementing Agency	Description	Impact / Objective
National Aquaculture Development Plan	MEWA (Vision 2030)	National strategy to expand aquaculture production from approximately 280,000 tonnes (2024 estimate) to 600,000 tonnes annually by 2030.	Strengthen food security, reduce seafood imports, create jobs, and position Saudi Arabia as a regional aquaculture leader.
Fisheries & Agriculture Investment Program	Government of Saudi Arabia / Private Sector	Investment agreements worth approximately SAR 15 billion (~US$4 billion) announced during the May 2025 bilateral business forum.	Accelerates aquaculture expansion, infrastructure development, technology adoption, and private-sector participation.
SAMAQ Certification	MEWA	Saudi Mark of Aquaculture Quality (SAMAQ) establishes quality, traceability, food safety, and biosecurity standards for farmed seafood.	Enhances consumer confidence, export competitiveness, and disease management within the aquaculture sector.
Desert Aquaculture	MEWA / Private Operators	Expansion of inland aquaculture using groundwater resources and Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), primarily for tilapia and catfish production.	Enables fish production in arid regions while improving water-use efficiency.
NEOM OXAGON Aquaculture Hub	NEOM / PIF	Large-scale integrated aquaculture and seafood production hub within the OXAGON industrial ecosystem.	Target production exceeding 50,000 tonnes annually and development of advanced blue-economy technologies.
Hail Salmon Project	Private Sector / Government Support	Planned large-scale land-based salmon farming project utilizing controlled-environment aquaculture systems.	Long-term production target of approximately 100,000 tonnes annually.
Fishing Port Development Program	MEWA	Modernization and expansion of fisheries infrastructure, including the development of 16 fishing ports.	Improved fish landing, processing, storage, logistics, and export capabilities.

Standard / Indicator	Authority / Certification Body	Description	Status / Impact
Saudi GAP (SaudiGAP)	MEWA	National Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) framework aligned with international standards and designed to improve food safety, environmental sustainability, and farm management.	Serves as the primary national GAP certification system for Saudi agriculture.
SAMAQ Certification	MEWA	Saudi Mark of Aquaculture Quality for farmed seafood, covering quality assurance, traceability, and biosecurity requirements.	Supports consumer confidence and export competitiveness in aquaculture.
International Certifications Adopted	GlobalG.A.P., ISO, HACCP, SFDA	Export-oriented farms and food processors commonly implement GlobalG.A.P., ISO 22000, HACCP systems, and Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) food safety regulations.	Facilitates access to international markets and strengthens food safety compliance.
Organic Farming Area	MEWA / GASTAT	Approximately 25,000 ha under certified organic and transitional farming systems. Major crops include dates, vegetables (tomato, cucumber), fruits, and palm plantations.	Organic production reached approximately 98,300 tonnes in 2024, representing about 3% growth year-over-year.
Organic Certification System	MEWA Organic Agriculture Department	National organic certification framework supported by accredited international certification agencies operating within Saudi Arabia.	Ensures compliance with national and international organic production standards.

Program / Component	Implementing Authority	Description	Impact / Benefit
National IPM Policy	MEWA Plant Protection Department	Oversees national Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs, promoting sustainable pest control through monitoring, biological control, and reduced dependence on chemical pesticides.	Improves crop protection while minimizing environmental and health risks.
FAO Desert Locust Monitoring Coordination	MEWA / FAO	Continuous surveillance, forecasting, and rapid-response systems for desert locust outbreaks across Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries.	Reduces the risk of large-scale crop and pasture losses caused by locust invasions.
Pesticide Regulation	SFDA & MEWA	Joint regulation of pesticide registration, importation, sale, and use. Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) are strictly enforced for both domestic and export markets.	Ensures food safety, consumer protection, and compliance with international trade requirements.
GCC Pesticide Registration Framework	GCC Standardization Organization (GSO)	Saudi pesticide registration procedures are harmonized with Gulf Cooperation Council standards and regulatory guidelines.	Facilitates regional trade and standardized regulatory oversight.
Desert Locust Control Program	FAO Commission for Controlling the Desert Locust in the Central Region / MEWA	Saudi Arabia hosts the regional FAO commission and invests heavily in locust surveillance, forecasting, aerial spraying, and emergency response systems.	Protects agricultural production, rangelands, and national food security from locust outbreaks.

Component	Key Organizations	Description	Impact / Importance
Cold Chain Infrastructure	Almarai, NADEC, Private Logistics Operators	Saudi Arabia has a well-developed cold chain network, particularly for dairy products. Almarai operates one of the world's largest integrated refrigerated distribution systems. Cold-chain capacity is also expanding for fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other perishable products.	Reduces post-harvest losses, improves food quality, and supports nationwide distribution.
Grain Storage Infrastructure	GFSA (General Food Security Authority)	Strategic wheat silos are located across the Kingdom to support food security. Facilities are designed to store imported and domestically procured grains under controlled conditions.	Maintains national food reserves equivalent to approximately 4–6 months of consumption.
Food Processing Industry	Almarai, NADEC, Savola Group, Al Muhaidib Group	Rapidly growing agro-processing sector covering dairy products, edible oils, sugar refining, bakery products, beverages, packaged foods, and food distribution services.	Supports value addition, food security, employment generation, and import substitution under Vision 2030.

Component	Status	Description	Impact / Significance
Farm Power Availability	High	Commercial agriculture is highly mechanized, with centre-pivot irrigation systems serving as the dominant technology for large-scale wheat, fodder, and field crop production.	Enables efficient cultivation in arid environments and supports large-scale farming operations.
Tractor Density	High on Commercial Farms	Modern tractors and agricultural machinery are widely used by corporate farms, while traditional smallholder and oasis farms generally have lower levels of mechanization.	Improves labor productivity, operational efficiency, and timeliness of farm activities.
Precision Agriculture	Advanced Adoption	Major agribusinesses such as Almarai, NADEC, and export-oriented farms utilize GPS-guided tractors, satellite-based crop monitoring, automated irrigation systems, and remote sensing technologies. KACST also supports precision agriculture through research programs.	Enhances water-use efficiency, optimizes inputs, and increases crop productivity.
Greenhouse Technology	Rapidly Expanding	Approximately 7,800 ha of protected vegetable cultivation were reported in 2024 (GASTAT). Expansion is supported through financial incentives and modernization programs under MEWA.	Improves yields, conserves water, enables year-round production, and strengthens domestic food security.

Trade Indicator	Value / Status	Description / Notes
Total Agricultural Imports	~18–19 million tonnes (2024)	Increased by approximately 10.8% compared to 2023. Grains account for about 72.1% of total agricultural imports. Saudi Arabia imports roughly 80% of its food requirements due to limited arable land and water resources.
Total Agricultural Exports	~0.5–0.6 million tonnes (2024)	Increased by approximately 13% compared to 2023. Fruits and edible nuts represent about 72.1% of total agricultural crop exports.
Key Export Commodities	Dates, Shrimp, Dairy Products, Eggs, Vegetables	Saudi Arabia is among the world's leading exporters of dates and a major regional exporter of processed dairy products. Shrimp exports are valued at approximately US$293 million annually.
Key Import Commodities	Wheat, Barley, Corn, Rice, Sugar, Meat, Edible Oils	Major annual imports include wheat (~3.5–4.8 MT), barley (~3 MT), corn (~4.5–4.8 MT), and rice (~1.5–1.6 MT), primarily to support food security and livestock feed requirements.
Top Import Source Countries	Brazil, USA, India, Australia, Argentina, Russia, Ukraine, EU, Canada	These countries supply grains, meat, edible oils, animal feed, and processed food products to the Kingdom.
Top Export Destination Countries	GCC Countries, Jordan, Egypt, Yemen, EU, Japan, China, South Korea	GCC markets dominate agricultural exports, while Asian markets are important destinations for shrimp and seafood products.
Membership in Agricultural Trade Blocs	WTO, GCC Common Market, GAFTA	Saudi Arabia participates in major regional and global trade frameworks and continues to pursue bilateral and multilateral free trade agreements.