Diplomatic endeavor unveiled during Buraidah Date Festival
The Buraidah Dates Carnival, the largest event of its kind, is currently underway in the central Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. This annual celebration, which runs from earlier this month until mid-October, showcases over 100 varieties of dates produced in the region, known as the breadbasket of the Kingdom.
The carnival is part of the Date Diplomacy initiative, a collaborative effort between the Emirate of Qassim Region, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the National Center for Palms and Dates. This initiative aims to strengthen relations between the member states of the Riyadh-based International Dates Council, which includes Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Tunisia, Sudan, Mauritania, Yemen, Oman, Palestine, Somalia, and Lebanon.
As part of the Date Diplomacy program, ambassadors from various diplomatic missions are being invited to the Buraidah Dates Carnival. These ambassadors will be given the opportunity to visit date farms and receive date-related gifts, helping to raise awareness of the cultural, economic, and heritage activities taking place. However, the names of the participating ambassadors are not publicly available at this time.
Last year, SR3.2 billion ($853 million) worth of dates were sold at the Buraidah Dates Carnival, and this year has seen hundreds of tonnes of dates sold. Popular varieties such as Khalas, Suqai, Wannana, Barhi, Shaqra, Medjool, Hoshaniyya, and others, including the highly demanded Sukkari variety, are in high demand at the carnival.
The Buraidah Dates Carnival features a variety of events, programs, and exhibitions, providing visitors with an immersive experience into the world of dates. From learning about the cultivation and harvesting processes to tasting different varieties, the carnival offers something for everyone.
The Buraidah Dates Carnival is more than just a marketplace; it is a celebration of the region's rich history and culture. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, sample local cuisine, and learn about the importance of dates in Saudi Arabian culture and tradition.
The Buraidah Dates Carnival is not just a local event; it is an international affair, bringing together people from all over the world to celebrate the humble yet significant date fruit. Whether you are a date connoisseur or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Buraidah Dates Carnival is a must-visit event.
