Al-Jouf:Olive presses in the Al-Jouf Region have started receiving olive harvests and processing them into oil this October. This activity benefits from the region's strong agricultural output, contributed by both major agricultural projects and small-scale farmers, reinforcing Al-Jouf's status as a leading producer of olives and olive oil in Saudi Arabia.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the Al-Jawbah Press, managed by the Al-Jouf Multipurpose Cooperative Society, employs an integrated production process. This begins with receiving the olives and moving them through various processing stages via a conveyor system. Impurities, leaves, and small branches are removed using air, after which the olives are washed and kneaded. The oil is then extracted, separated from water, purified, and finally packaged for consumption.
Dr. Bassam Alowaiesh, Chairman of the Al-Jouf Olive Producers Association, highlighted the significant expansion of olive cultivation in Saudi Arabia over the last thirty years, particularly in the northern regions. The Al-Jouf Region alone boasts over 30 million olive trees across more than 20,000 hectares, with an economic valuation of approximately SAR 500 million.
He further noted that olive production in 2025 exceeded 160,000 tons, including about 25,000 tons of olive oil, a substantial increase from the 3,000 tons of olive oil produced in 2006. This growth reflects the expanding capabilities and development within the sector.
Alowaiesh also emphasized that Al-Jouf Region is responsible for around 80% of northern Saudi Arabia's olive oil production. This achievement is supported by the region's vast agricultural land, the variety of olive types cultivated, and the expertise accumulated in olive cultivation and oil production.
He concluded that the diversity of olive varieties and advancements in pressing and production techniques enhance the value of the harvest, contributing to the growth of agricultural activities and related industries. These efforts also bolster the market presence of olive oil produced in the Al-Jouf Region.