Saudi Arabia Coffee Production
A symbol of tradition and growth, Saudi Arabia’s coffee sector is brewing rapid expansion. Coffee farming, rooted in Jazan, Asir, and Baha regions, now combines sustainability practices with cutting-edge tech. The Saudi Coffee Initiative, part of Vision 2030, drives efforts to enhance output. Backed by a $319 million Public Investment Fund injection, the initiative funds advanced agricultural research and infrastructure upgrades. In March 2024, a strategic partnership with Alghanim Industries bolstered distribution networks, expanding market reach beyond traditional channels.
Projects led by Saudi Reef aim to plant 50,000 seedlings using tissue cultures and bioreactors, which speed growth and cut labor. These methods could elevate productivity by 30% by 2025. Genetic research identifies top plant strains, with labs refining 17,000 embryos and 4,000 acclimatized plants. Such advances may help triple production by 2026 despite arid conditions.
Saudi Reef accelerates coffee cultivation with advanced tissue cultures and bioreactors, targeting a 30% productivity gain by 2025 and triple output by 2026.
Coffee—locally called *gahwa*—holds deep cultural weight, often served with spices during gatherings. Yet modern trends reshape habits. Youth flock to specialty shops alongside traditional settings, blending heritage drinks like spiced *gahwa* with espresso-based options.
Market value, set to jump from $1.38 billion in 2024 to $2.27 billion by 2033, reflects this mix. A 5.67% annual growth rate signals rising demand, fueled by urbanization and global café influences.
Saudi Arabia’s production remains small globally—around 200 bags versus giants like Vietnam’s millions. But scaling up matters. Scientists regrouped 82 genetic patterns into 12 optimized groups, ensuring hardy, traceable plants.
Over 1,000 cuttings now grow uniformly, improving survival rates. Greenhouses prep seedlings for harsh fields, while bioreactors accelerate output. If targets hit, Saudi could carve a niche in the 178.7-million-bag global market.
The push ties to Vision 2030’s economic diversification goals. By merging tradition with innovation, Saudi Arabia aims to turn coffee into both a cultural emblem and a sustainable crop.
As farms adopt tech and young Saudis welcome café culture, the sector brews a future where heritage meets ambition—one cup at a time.
