Al-Baha honey, a major economic and tourism asset for the region and its surrounding governorates, has been supported by international honey festivals organized over the past 17 years by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in collaboration with the Al-Baha Beekeepers Cooperative Association, significantly boosting local tourism and advancing honey production and processing.
Due to its diverse geography and climate, from the Sarawat to the Tihama mountains, Al-Baha boasts a rich vegetation cover that has fueled rapid growth in beekeeping.
The region now produces over 15 types of honey with seasonal variety.
Al-Baha Beekeepers Cooperative Association Chairman Mohammed Al-Shadwi stated that the region is home to over 3,000 beekeepers, ranging from professionals managing more than 1,000 hives to hobbyists with fewer than 100.
Together, they contribute about 20% of the Kingdom’s total honey production, amounting to approximately 1,000 tons.
Ministry regional branch Director Eng. Fahd Al-Zahrani affirmed the branch’s commitment to advancing the beekeeping sector through initiatives such as the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program, the Organic Agriculture Program, training courses, and the establishment of model apiaries to promote best practices.
Beekeeping in Al-Baha is not only one of the region’s oldest professions but also a growing entrepreneurial opportunity.
Many young people are actively expanding their expertise, turning their passion for beekeeping into professional ventures and exploring new ways to innovate in this time-honored trade.
