Riyadh | BETH

Saudi Arabia’s rose sector has recorded notable growth, with annual production rising by more than 15%, driven by increasing global demand. This growth has boosted the rose trade and enhanced returns for small-scale farmers, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Majed Al-Buraikan, spokesperson for the “Reef Saudi” program, said the sector continues to receive support through agricultural guidance, financing, and improvements in production and storage processes, as well as marketing efforts both locally and internationally. He also highlighted the establishment of the Taif Rose Producers Association to further develop the sector.

Taif remains the Kingdom’s primary hub for rose cultivation, with approximately 700 hectares of farmland hosting around 1,300 farms, producing nearly 500 million roses annually. The region is also home to 36 factories specializing in perfume production, with an estimated value of SAR 52 million.

The sector benefits from favorable environmental and climatic conditions in Taif, supporting the growth of aromatic plants that require minimal water and offer high efficiency. More than 20 types of aromatic plants are cultivated, contributing to rising domestic and global demand, particularly as their uses expand into perfumes, medicine, and beverages.

Al-Buraikan also noted strong cooperation with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in implementing initiatives that support the rose sector, as part of an effective partnership. However, he pointed to ongoing challenges, including limited scientific research on plant breeding and the relatively weak role of agricultural cooperatives in supporting production and facilitating financing for small farmers.