Buraidah International Dates Carnival opens for 75-day run

The Buraidah International Dates Carnival opened today next to the Nakhlah Center in southern Buraidah, attracting farmers, traders, and importers. The event is supported by Prince Faisal bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Al-Qassim Region, and organized by the National Center for Palms and Dates.

The carnival will run for 75 days until October 14, serving as an annual economic season and one of the world’s largest date markets. It is listed in the Guinness World Records and draws participants and visitors from across Saudi Arabia and abroad.

The event highlights Al-Qassim’s leading role in the palm and dates sector, with the region home to around 11 million palm trees and an annual production of approximately 578,000 tons. The sector generates about 3.2 billion riyals (SAR) in revenue each year and provides over 4,000 direct and indirect jobs, supporting investment and contributing to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

The carnival also features cultural, tourism, and entertainment activities that showcase Al-Qassim’s agricultural and cultural heritage, enriching the visitor experience.