Saudi countryside expo sept: Two-day event showcases rural lifestyle, agriculture, and economic impact

On September 25-26, Diriyah will host the Saudi Countryside Expo Sept, also known as the Reef Valley Exhibition, under the patronage of Saudi Arabia’s Environment Minister, Abdulrahman Al-Fadhli. The exhibition is set to take place during the Diriyah Biennale and aims to highlight the economic, cultural, and tourism potential of Saudi Arabia’s countryside, breaking stereotypes about rural life and showcasing the importance of agriculture in the kingdom.

Organized by the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program, this exhibition will shine a light on the essential role of Saudi farmers and rural communities in achieving the kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives. The program focuses on improving the quality of life in Saudi Arabia’s countryside by empowering small farmers, boosting rural women’s roles, providing training for young people, and supporting projects aimed at improving income and economic sustainability in rural areas.

Pavilions at the exhibition will highlight several key sectors, including aromatic plants, rainfed crops, coffee, fruit, and honey production. The Saudi Countryside Expo Sept is designed to engage a wide range of participants, from government agencies and agricultural specialists to decision-makers, program beneficiaries, and the general public.

One of the exhibition’s core objectives is to emphasize the passion and dedication of Saudi farmers, illustrating their contribution to the nation’s agricultural sector and broader economic landscape. The event will highlight how rural communities are crucial in driving the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, particularly in areas like agricultural development, food security, and rural tourism.

The exhibition also intends to raise awareness about sustainable farming practices and rural development projects that are making a difference in the lives of farmers and producers. The Saudi Countryside Expo Sept aims to showcase the countryside’s rich agricultural heritage and attract greater attention to the economic and cultural potential of Saudi Arabia’s rural areas.

In addition to promoting economic growth, the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program seeks to uplift rural communities by providing resources for small-scale farmers, facilitating income-generating projects, and offering training that empowers both the youth and rural women.

The event’s focus on rural women is especially important, as it aims to promote their role in agriculture and rural entrepreneurship, helping them gain greater independence and contribute more actively to their communities. The exhibition will also display various products from these rural sectors, offering visitors a chance to see firsthand the results of the program’s support for local producers.

By providing a platform for Saudi Arabia’s rural communities to showcase their culture, traditions, and agricultural contributions, the Reef Valley Exhibition reinforces the notion that the countryside is not only a vital part of the nation’s heritage but also a significant engine of economic growth. This focus on the countryside aligns with Vision 2030’s efforts to diversify the economy, support sustainable development, and enhance the quality of life for all citizens.

Analysis

Political: The Reef Valley Exhibition plays a pivotal role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s political agenda by aligning with the goals of Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the country’s economy and promote sustainable development. By highlighting the economic and cultural significance of rural areas, the exhibition supports the government’s efforts to increase agricultural self-sufficiency and reduce the kingdom’s reliance on oil. Additionally, the exhibition helps foster stronger connections between rural and urban communities, contributing to a more unified national identity.

Social: Socially, the exhibition highlights the often-overlooked contributions of rural communities in Saudi Arabia. It challenges stereotypes that portray the countryside as underdeveloped or backward, showcasing instead the vibrant culture and innovative agricultural practices thriving in these areas. By bringing attention to the work of small farmers, the event encourages a greater appreciation for the countryside’s role in feeding the nation and preserving traditional knowledge. The focus on empowering rural women and youth adds another layer of social significance, highlighting efforts to promote gender equality and provide new opportunities for rural development.

Economic: Economically, the Reef Valley Exhibition underscores the potential of Saudi Arabia’s countryside to contribute to the nation’s growth. By promoting local products like honey, coffee, fruit, and rainfed crops, the event supports the expansion of rural enterprises and encourages investment in agricultural projects. The exhibition aligns with Vision 2030’s goal of boosting the non-oil sector, positioning agriculture as a key area for economic diversification. Furthermore, the exhibition promotes sustainable farming practices that can lead to long-term growth and job creation in rural areas, helping to reduce urban migration and support balanced regional development.

Racial: The exhibition reflects the diverse cultural and ethnic makeup of Saudi Arabia’s rural communities, many of whom have distinct traditions tied to agriculture and the land. By promoting the work of small-scale farmers from various regions, the event fosters a sense of inclusivity and highlights the contributions of different ethnic groups to the nation’s agricultural heritage. This focus on diversity strengthens the message that all communities, regardless of their background, play a vital role in achieving the goals of Vision 2030.

Gender: The Reef Valley Exhibition places a strong emphasis on the empowerment of rural women, reflecting the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to promote gender equality in line with Vision 2030. By supporting women’s participation in agriculture and rural entrepreneurship, the event challenges traditional gender roles and opens up new opportunities for women to contribute to their communities. This focus on female empowerment not only helps uplift individual women but also has broader social and economic benefits, as women who are empowered to succeed in business and agriculture often reinvest in their families and communities.