Rose Farms in Taif: The Fragrant Hub Driving an Economic Engine
Taif’s mountainous and famed rose farms have transformed into a major fragrance production hub, churning out over 550 million flowers annually and fueling an economic engine worth millions.
The Rose Capital of the World
Spanning 270 hectares, some 910 rose farms in Taif nurture approximately 1.14 million bushes across picturesque areas like Al-Hada, Al-Shifa, Wadi Muharram, Al-Wahat, and Al-Wahit. These fragrant crops have elevated the mountainous region into a global rose capital, setting a Guinness World Record with a basket of 84,450 roses.
A Blossoming Market
During the peak season from March to April, a vibrant display of petals adorns terraced fields, supplying over 70 factories and laboratories focused on extracting and producing over 80 sought-after derivatives. These products enjoy immense popularity in the domestic market, valued at SR64 million ($17 million).
Celebrating Agricultural Prowess
Majid Al-Khalif, director general of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture’s branch in the Makkah region, emphasizes the importance of showcasing the region’s heritage and competitive advantage through festivals and events. These initiatives not only promote local products but also foster knowledge exchange among farmers.
Nurturing Growth and Collaboration
Collaborative efforts with local authorities play a pivotal role in the success of events like the Rose Festival, attracting significant tourist interest. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rose distillation process, seminars, workshops, and other activities tailored to enthusiasts of Taif’s roses.
Empowering Rose Farmers
The Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program, known as Reef, focuses on enhancing the productivity of vital agricultural crops in Taif. This initiative aims to diversify agricultural production, ensure sustainable use of resources, and bolster the rose farming sector through modern techniques and education.
Supporting Sustainable Practices
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in Taif provides crucial support services to local farmers, including agricultural guidance, rainwater harvesting schemes, and pest control measures. Small-scale rose farmers are encouraged to embrace sustainable practices and leverage advanced technologies to optimize their production techniques.