RIYADH: Autumn in Asir signals the start of pomegranate season, a time when the fruit takes center stage in the region’s farms, markets, and festivals.
Long considered a symbol of identity for the people of Asir, the pomegranate is prized for its flavor, nutritional value, and role in supporting local farmers and families.
The pomegranate is a long-held symbol of Asir identity. (SPA)
Varieties range from the sweet local type to the light-skinned, slightly sour Safri, the bright red Baladi, and even the Taig pomegranate grown on some farms.
Rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, fiber, and iron, the fruit is linked to stronger immunity and heart health, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
FASTFACTS
• In Asir, the pomegranate is prized for its flavor, nutritional value, and role in supporting local farmers and families.
• Varieties range from the sweet local type to the light-skinned, slightly sour Safri, the bright red Baladi, and even the Taif pomegranate grown on some farms.
Economically, pomegranate season is a vital source of income for many farmers and families, boosting markets and attracting visitors through festivals organized by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture.
The annual festivals, held across governorates such as Sarat Abidah, Dhahran Al-Janoub, Al-Farsha, Balqarn, Ahad Rufaidah, Balhmar, Al-Ghail, and Balsamer, celebrate both the fruit and the farmers behind it.
They have become cultural and economic gatherings that showcase heritage while stimulating local trade and boosting tourism.
Asir’s pomegranates stand as a symbol of prosperity, reflecting the deep agricultural traditions and enduring pride of the region.
