Riyadh: Rural parks, lodges, and farms in the Qassim Region are witnessing increasing turnout from families and youth during the holy month of Ramadan, who gather to spend iftar time in open-air settings that combine the spirituality of the blessed month with the enjoyment of meeting outside the home.
According to Saudi Press Agency, these locations have been prepared to receive visitors by setting up designated seating areas for families and others for youth, in addition to providing iftar and suhoor meals, contributing to an organized experience characterized by comfort and privacy.
Director General of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in Qassim Region Eng. Salman Al-Suwain explained in a statement that rural farms in the region are witnessing increasing turnout from families and visitors during Ramadan to spend iftar time in an agricultural environment that combines authenticity and nature. He emphasized that this reflects the success of efforts to empower rural farms and transform them into attractive agricultural and tourism destinations.
He noted that the branch is working to empower rural farmers by facilitating licensing procedures and developing electronic services to ensure swift application processing and enhance the quality of rural projects. He indicated that the branch has received more than 126 requests to license rural farms through the 'Naama' portal, of which 84 operational licenses have been issued, reflecting growing interest in rural tourism investment in the region.
He added that the activity and turnout witnessed at rural farms are due to the support received by the region from Governor of Qassim Region Prince Dr. Faisal bin Mishaal bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, and his continued interest in enhancing agricultural and tourism development. He pointed out that among the most notable forms of this support is his patronage of the First National Forum for Tourism and the launch of the Rural Award, which has encouraged farmers to develop their farms and open them to visitors under regulations that promote sustainability and support the rural economy.
Several visitors stated that having iftar in parks and farms during Ramadan represents an opportunity for change and a break from daily routine, while also enhancing social connections in distinctive Ramadan atmospheres and allowing enjoyment of the mild weather during Ramadan evenings.
This turnout comes amid the diversity of rural locations and the integration of their services, providing multiple options for spending Ramadan time in organized social settings.