Madinah’s ‘Countryside Winter’ Festival Draws Over 7,000 Visitors, Showcasing Rural Heritage

More than 7,000 visitors attended the “Countryside Winter” festival in Madinah, an event organized by Reef Saudi, the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program, to celebrate local agriculture, heritage, and rural tourism.

The three-day festival aimed to promote rural tourism and highlight the rich agricultural and cultural heritage of different regions in Saudi Arabia. It attracted a diverse audience, including families, tourists, and local residents, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Celebrating Rural Heritage and Agriculture

Reef Saudi spokesperson Majed Al-Buraikan emphasized the festival’s role in showcasing authentic rural life and providing a platform for local farmers and artisans.

“The festival reflects the growth of rural tourism in Madinah. We had 22 program beneficiaries participating, offering products such as fresh fruit, natural honey, aromatic oils, and traditional handicrafts, all deeply rooted in the region’s heritage,” Al-Buraikan said.

Visitors engaged in cultural performances, traditional games, and interactive displays, gaining insight into sustainable farming practices and rural craftsmanship.

Boosting the Rural Economy

The strong public turnout demonstrated growing support for local products and underscored the festival’s contribution to economic sustainability in rural communities.

Each booth at the event represented a success story, highlighting Reef Saudi’s ongoing efforts to empower small-scale farmers and artisans through training in modern agricultural techniques.

Reef Saudi continues to play a key role in strengthening Saudi Arabia’s rural economy by providing marketing platforms and increasing awareness of local products, Al-Buraikan added.

Alignment with Vision 2030

The festival aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which focuses on economic diversification and sustainable development. Officials from the Madinah Region Development Authority reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing quality of life, economic opportunities, and cultural growth in the region.

As rural tourism gains momentum, events like “Countryside Winter” are expected to further elevate Madinah’s agricultural heritage, empowering local communities and preserving traditional craftsmanship for future generations.