Al-Ahsa Celebrates Date Harvest Season

The annual date harvest season in Al-Ahsa, typically running from late August to the end of October, is a major economic and cultural event marking the culmination of a year’s hard work for palm farmers.

 According to local date trader Abdulhamid Al-Hulaibi, the harvest is a collaborative effort involving multiple workers, with some climbing the trees to cut dates while others collect, sort, and transport the fruit. He emphasized the importance of proper harvesting to maintain quality and reduce waste and advocated for preserving this cultural heritage by training young people, especially high school and university students. Although historically a cooperative effort among farmers, the number of Saudi workers in the field has recently declined.

 In line with Vision 2030, the date sector is experiencing significant growth, with its contribution to agricultural GDP doubling. To support this progress, King Faisal University's Date Palm Research Center of Excellence Director Dr. Nashi Al-Qahtani highlighted several technological innovations. These include an AI-powered sorting machine that uses artificial intelligence and solar energy to sort dates by size, color, and moisture; a sustainable program using natural repellents to combat the red palm weevil; a subsurface irrigation device powered by AI and solar energy to improve water efficiency and date quality; and new food products alongside a device that measures the natural qualities of dates using their electrical properties.

 These advancements aim to modernize the industry, enhance its economic value, and preserve its cultural heritage.