The event, which saw the signing of 28 agreements and memoranda of understanding worth over SR3.6 billion ($960 million), underscores the Kingdom’s growing role as a global leader in sustainable agriculture and environmental innovation.

Held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, the four-day exhibition features nearly 450 companies and organizations from 34 countries, including 11 national pavilions.

The event serves as a vibrant platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies in plant, animal, and fish production, aligning with the Saudi Vision 2030 goals of achieving food self-sufficiency, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing the Kingdom’s agricultural competitiveness.

In his opening remarks, Minister Al-Fadley emphasized the significance of agricultural innovation in achieving environmental sustainability, water preservation, and food security.

He noted that the record-breaking number of agreements signed reflects the confidence of local and international investors in the Kingdom’s agricultural sector, which continues to expand through strategic investments and advanced research.

Prince Saud bin Turki Al-Faisal, chairman of the board at Riyadh Exhibitions Co., highlighted the event’s growing influence, describing it as “a vital global platform for exchanging expertise, forging partnerships, and advancing sustainable agricultural practices.”

He added that global environmental challenges call for innovative solutions and collaboration between nations to safeguard natural resources and ensure a resilient future for food production.

Following the inauguration, Minister Al-Fadley toured various pavilions, exploring the latest advancements in livestock management, aquaculture, organic farming, food processing, agricultural machinery, and biotechnology.

He praised the exhibitors for their contribution to transforming agriculture into a high-tech, eco-conscious industry that supports both local farmers and international trade.

The exhibition’s first day saw the signing of 28 strategic agreements among public, semi-governmental, and private entities aimed at enhancing agricultural investments, supporting startups, and driving innovation in the sector.

Several international partnerships were also announced, focused on boosting Saudi Arabia’s agri-food value chains, expanding research in climate-resilient crops, and encouraging technology transfer from leading agricultural nations.

According to event organizers, the Saudi agricultural sector contributed SR119 billion to the national GDP in 2024, marking a steady rise in productivity and investment.

This figure is expected to climb to SR140 billion by 2030, reflecting the country’s success in diversifying its economy and reducing dependency on imports through sustainable domestic production.

Running parallel to the exhibition is the International Future of Agriculture Summit, which gathers experts, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from around the world to discuss the future of food systems, digital agriculture, and sustainable farming techniques.

Topics such as AI-driven irrigation, hydroponics, and green supply chains are central to this year’s discussions, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a regional hub for smart agriculture.

Industry leaders attending the exhibition praised the Kingdom’s proactive approach toward building a resilient and environmentally responsible food system.

By leveraging technology, research, and international partnerships, Saudi Arabia continues to advance toward its Vision 2030 targets, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and global collaboration.

The exhibition not only celebrates Saudi Arabia’s agricultural progress but also serves as a reminder of the Kingdom’s broader mission: ensuring food security for future generations while balancing economic growth and environmental stewardship.

With over 450 global participants and nearly $1 billion in agreements, the 42nd Saudi Agriculture Exhibition stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to creating a prosperous, sustainable, and food-secure future — both for itself and for the wider world.

With declining freshwater flows from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers contributing to higher salt levels, the government, experts, and local communities are implementing solutions to secure water resources, protect crops, and strengthen livelihoods.

Farmers in southern Iraq, particularly in Basra province, have long relied on the Tigris and Euphrates for irrigation and livestock. Recent challenges, including higher salinity in central Basra, have prompted innovative approaches to water management.

For example, the government has announced a large-scale desalination project in Basra with a capacity of one million cubic meters per day. This initiative aims to provide clean freshwater for irrigation, livestock, and domestic use, while reducing the impact of brackish water on crops and livestock.

Local farmers are also adapting to changing conditions by adopting modern irrigation practices, salt-tolerant crop varieties, and improved livestock management strategies.

These measures help maintain productivity despite natural fluctuations in river flows and salinity. For instance, farmer Zulaykha Hashem, who grows pomegranates, figs, and berries, is leveraging more efficient irrigation and soil management techniques to sustain her crops.

Such proactive measures demonstrate the resilience and ingenuity of Iraq’s agricultural communities.

The Iraqi government has emphasized collaboration with international partners and experts to improve water infrastructure and optimize the country’s share of river flows.

Iraq receives less than 35 percent of its allocated water from upstream countries, highlighting the importance of transboundary cooperation.

Authorities are working to negotiate water-sharing agreements and promote sustainable water usage practices, ensuring equitable access for farmers, households, and industries alike.

In addition, universities and research centers, such as Iraq’s University of Kufa, are conducting studies on salt-tolerant crops, efficient irrigation, and sustainable aquaculture.

These initiatives aim to mitigate the effects of higher salinity on agriculture and fisheries, supporting food security and economic stability. Local experts, including Hasan Al-Khateeb, are advising on projects that combine desalination, improved river management, and community-led water conservation programs.

Communities in Basra are already benefiting from these interventions. Families like that of Maryam Salman, a buffalo breeder, are gaining access to cleaner water for livestock and domestic needs.

Desalination and river management projects are expected to improve water availability year-round, providing healthier conditions for animals and boosting agricultural productivity.

Meanwhile, fish stocks are gradually recovering as water quality improves, offering renewed opportunities for local fishermen and sustaining livelihoods dependent on fisheries.

The United Nations and other international organizations have praised Iraq’s efforts, highlighting the importance of investing in water infrastructure and climate-resilient agricultural practices.

These initiatives are expected to reduce climate-related displacement, enhance food security, and improve community well-being across the country. By integrating technology, policy, and local knowledge, Iraq is setting a model for climate adaptation and sustainable water management in the region.

Despite historic challenges, Iraq’s farmers, herders, and communities are embracing a forward-looking approach. With government-led projects, expert guidance, and community engagement, the country is turning a pressing environmental challenge into an opportunity for innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth.

Improved freshwater access, enhanced irrigation, and stronger support for livestock and fisheries are creating a brighter, more secure future for agriculture and rural livelihoods in Iraq.

Saudi women are not just part of this change—they are actively shaping the Kingdom’s environmental future, turning sand into soil.

In the heart of the Kingdom’s vast deserts, an extraordinary transformation is taking place. Once barren stretches of sand are now being turned into fertile soil, and leading this revolutionary effort are Saudi women.

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a defining moment in its sustainability journey. Under Vision 2030’s Green Saudi Initiative, the nation is making bold strides toward reforestation, food security, and climate-resilient agriculture. However, what often goes unrecognized is that Saudi women are at the forefront of these efforts, driving groundbreaking scientific advancements to combat desertification and ensure a greener future.

With women now constituting 40 percent of graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), Saudi Arabia has surpassed many Western nations in gender diversity in these critical fields. But their impact extends far beyond the classroom—they are actively leading research, pioneering innovative environmental solutions, and implementing sustainable agricultural practices.

Orn Supaphol, Chief Technical Officer at Saudi Desert Control, highlights the critical role women play in environmental restoration. “In my work, I witness firsthand how Saudi women are leading projects that transform deserts into fertile land, improve water conservation, and develop long-term sustainability solutions,” she said.

One of Saudi Arabia’s most pressing environmental challenges is desertification—the loss of arable land due to climate conditions and soil degradation. Tackling this issue demands scientific breakthroughs, innovation, and long-term commitment. Across the Kingdom, Saudi women are rising to this challenge.

At Saudi Desert Control, researchers employ cutting-edge Liquid Natural Clay technology to enhance the water retention capacity of desert sand, making sustainable food production possible in one of the world’s most arid climates. Women scientists and engineers are spearheading the deployment of this technology, ensuring its success on the ground.

Beyond this, female researchers and agricultural engineers are leading efforts to reduce water consumption, implement regenerative farming techniques, and introduce climate-resilient crops. Their work is essential in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable farming practices.

Science and sustainability thrive on diverse perspectives, and the contributions of women in these fields lead to more effective decision-making, innovative solutions, and long-term resilience. Many of the most forward-thinking environmental advancements in Saudi Arabia today can be traced back to the efforts of female scientists and engineers.

“Saudi Arabia’s transformation is often spoken of as something coming in the future,” said Supaphol. “But working alongside incredible female colleagues, I can confidently say the future is already here.”

Saudi women are not just part of this change—they are actively shaping the Kingdom’s environmental future, turning sand into soil, conserving resources, and making sustainability a reality.

As the nation accelerates its sustainability drive, young Saudi women pursuing careers in science and environmental conservation will play a decisive role. Their contributions will define the next chapter in Saudi Arabia’s history, proving that the future of sustainability is not just coming—it is happening now.