Saudi Arabia Grows White Strawberries for First Time

Saudi Arabia just made agricultural history with a fruit that looks like it belongs in a fairytale.

The kingdom successfully grew white strawberries for the first time, adding an unusual crop to its expanding agricultural portfolio. The pale berries debuted this season in the Hail region, where strawberry cultivation has become both a family tradition and an economic driver.

The white variety arrived through cooperation between Saudi farms and the University of Florida. While uncommon, white strawberries aren't entirely new to the world. They're already available in several countries, including Israel, but their arrival in Saudi Arabia represents something bigger than just a novel crop.

Fahad Al-Hasani, who leads the Saudi Ministry of Environment's Hail branch, says the white strawberry reflects the country's commitment to agricultural innovation. The project supports Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 goals by diversifying crops, improving production efficiency, and reducing reliance on imported produce.

Hail has transformed into a strawberry destination where families can pick fruit, enjoy coffee, and let kids play among the hydroponic growing systems. The region's farms attract both local visitors and international attention, turning agriculture into an experience rather than just an industry.

Farm owner partnerships with international universities demonstrate how knowledge sharing can yield tangible results. The introduction of white strawberries shows Saudi agriculture adopting modern techniques while creating new income streams for farmers.

The Ripple Effect

Saudi Arabia's agricultural push extends beyond novelty fruits. The kingdom is investing heavily in sustainable farming technologies to reduce water usage and increase food security in one of the world's driest climates.

The white strawberry success story mirrors similar agricultural innovations across the region. Egypt's Ismailia region has become a strawberry export hub, while Jordanian farms use European hydroponic techniques to grow premium berries that locals pick themselves rather than buying at markets.

These regional developments share a common thread: turning agriculture into both an economic opportunity and a family experience. Social media videos show Egyptian and Jordanian families flooding strawberry farms during harvest season, creating memories while supporting local farmers.

The transformation of Hail from a traditional agricultural area to an agritourism destination creates jobs, attracts visitors, and puts advanced farming methods into practice. Each successful harvest proves that innovation and tradition can grow side by side.

Saudi Arabia's white strawberries prove that agricultural progress doesn't have to come at the expense of family fun and community connection.