Buraidah International Date Carnival boosts economic activity in Qassim

The Buraidah International Date Carnival is strengthening economic activity in the Qassim region by creating both direct and indirect seasonal job opportunities, supporting the local economy and providing employment across various fields related to organizing and operating the carnival throughout its 75-day duration.

Recognized as the world’s largest seasonal date marketing carnival, the event sees continuous commercial and economic activity that stimulates the date trade sector, boosts sales and purchases, and increases demand for shipping, transport, and logistics services. This supports supply chains and enhances the efficiency of product distribution to both local and international markets.

The carnival aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by supporting agricultural development, diversifying income sources, promoting local content, and improving the date sector’s efficiency through organizational and digital initiatives led by the National Center for Palms and Dates. These efforts enhance the sector’s competitiveness and ensure sustainable growth.

Dr. Khaled Al-Naqidan, Secretary-General of the Supreme Committee and CEO of the Buraidah International Date Carnival, noted that the event enjoys direct attention and support from Prince Faisal bin Mishaal bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Qassim. He emphasized that this backing, along with the cooperation of government agencies and sponsors, has helped establish the carnival as one of the Kingdom’s leading economic and agricultural events.

Al-Naqidan explained that growing interest from visitors, shoppers, and investors from inside and outside Saudi Arabia has positively impacted the region’s economy, creating around 4,000 direct and indirect seasonal jobs for young men and women. These roles include organization, marketing, auctioneering, shipping, loading and unloading, as well as logistics and supporting professions.

He added that the committee has allocated spaces for productive families to display and market their goods, and has designated areas for food truck operators. This encourages small businesses and entrepreneurs to participate in the economic activity surrounding the carnival while providing visitors with a variety of services to meet their needs.

Al-Naqidan affirmed that the carnival continues to play its role as an economic and developmental driver by supporting the date sector, stimulating commercial activity, creating seasonal job opportunities, empowering national talent, and enhancing the contribution of seasonal events to economic development.