SPA — Olive presses in Al-Jouf have begun operating at full capacity for the 2025 harvest season. They are processing olives from local farms and large-scale agricultural projects. The presses produce olive oil and table olives for markets in Saudi Arabia and abroad. This signals a strong season for the region’s expanding olive industry.
Technological Upgrades Drive Production Growth
Mohammed Al-Fadel, the chairman of the Al-Jouf Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society, said the olive press has been upgraded. This upgrade is to keep pace with the region’s rising production and meet local farmers’ demand. Since its establishment in 1416 AH, its daily capacity has grown from 18 to 60 tons. The introduction of advanced Italian olive oil extraction systems supports this growth.
The cooperative’s imported presses, launched last year, operate continuously throughout the harvest period, which extends until January. In the previous season, the cooperative processed olives from 215 farmers and carried out comprehensive quality and safety testing with the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture.
A Regional Hub for Olive Cultivation
According to Dr. Bassam Al-Owaish, Associate Professor of Environment and Agriculture at Al-Jouf University, the region is home to more than 25 million olive trees. These trees are cultivated across both smallholdings and large farms. Annual production typically begins in early October. Popular varieties include Arbequina, Koroneiki, Arbosana, Sourani, Zayti, and Picual. Each cultivar offers distinct characteristics in oil yield and fruit size, reflecting the region’s agricultural diversity.
Festival Showcases Olive-Based Industries
Al-Jouf’s olive economy extends beyond farming and pressing. The International Olive Festival, held annually by the Al-Jouf Municipality, has become a major platform for promoting Saudi olive products and their derivatives. The festival highlights olive-based industries such as soap, pickles, cosmetics, olive tea, and salads. It also encourages innovation through competitions, with awards reaching SAR 500,000.
With its advanced technology, agricultural expertise, and growing market appeal, Al-Jouf continues strengthening its position as Saudi Arabia’s leading olive production hub.
THE SAUDI STANDARD’S VIEW: Al-Jouf’s Expanding Olive Industry Strengthens Saudi Agricultural Innovation
The expansion of olive presses in Al-Jouf signals a new phase of Saudi Arabia’s agricultural modernization. Tradition and technology combine to enhance food security, economic diversification, and rural prosperity. With upgraded production capacity and international-standard processing systems, Al-Jouf continues establishing itself as the Kingdom’s capital of olive cultivation. This sector is increasingly aligned with Vision 2030’s sustainability and agri-innovation goals.
• Technological Modernization Anchoring Growth
The Al-Jouf Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society’s upgrade to advanced Italian extraction systems marks a significant leap. It improves production efficiency and quality assurance. Expanding daily capacity from 18 to 60 tons reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into traditional agricultural industries. This ensures global competitiveness and sustainability.
• Empowering Local Farmers and Cooperative Models
The cooperative model reinforces inclusive growth and community participation by supporting over 200 local farmers and maintaining continuous harvest operations. This framework enhances rural livelihoods and promotes cooperative entrepreneurship. It exemplifies Vision 2030’s objective of strengthening non-oil sectors through local empowerment.
• Diversified Agricultural Ecosystem
Home to over 25 million olive trees and multiple high-yield cultivars, Al-Jouf represents a model of agricultural diversification. The region’s ability to produce world-class olive varieties such as Arbequina and Picual highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing sophistication. They are managing crop diversity, water efficiency, and land productivity.
• Value-Added Industries and Cultural Promotion
The International Olive Festival amplifies the region’s economic potential by integrating tourism, industry, and innovation. The festival showcases how local agriculture can evolve by promoting olive-based products — from cosmetics to culinary goods. It can turn into a full value chain of creative and sustainable industries.
• Strategic Role in Vision 2030’s Food and Rural Economy Agenda
Al-Jouf’s olive sector reflects the Kingdom’s broader pursuit of agricultural self-sufficiency, export competitiveness, and rural revitalization. Its success embodies the national vision to transform Saudi Arabia into a leader in sustainable agri-innovation and environmental stewardship.
Al-Jouf’s olive press expansion is more than an operational milestone. It is a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s agricultural evolution. The region stands as a living example through modernization, local empowerment, and sustainable innovation. Vision 2030 is transforming Saudi agriculture from heritage to high-tech excellence.
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