Al-Ahsa Lime Cultivation Expands Across Gulf Markets

Producers in Al-Ahsa are reporting steady growth in lime cultivation and wider distribution across Saudi and Gulf markets, cementing the region's position as a leading source of citrus in the Kingdom. The famed Al-Hasawi lime is the second most important crop in Al-Ahsa after dates.

Al-Ahsa Governorate is home to roughly 100,000 fruit-bearing lime trees spread across some 250,000 hectares, producing between 2,000 and 2,500 tons annually. Each tree yields around 25 to 30 kilograms, and the lime retails in local markets for about SAR 15 to 20

Major development projects are strengthening the sector. A dedicated “Lime Agricultural City” was launched in 2024 by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, covering more than 3 million square meters across 54 plots, with an initial 50,000 trees and a target of 100,000 lime and citron trees irrigated with recycled water. A second “Lemon City” project on more than 3.1 million square meters has reached about 80% completion, aiming for 100,000 citrus trees, while the first “Lemon City” is fully finished on 780,000 square meters with around 25,000 citrus trees.

Nationally, Saudi Arabia's lemon and lime production for the 2025/2026 marketing year is projected at roughly 124,000 tons, making the Kingdom the leading producer in the GCC with about 78% of regional output. Investment and rural development programs have raised supported Al-Ahsa lime production to more than 122,400 tons, with financial backing of around SAR 342,000 provided to 89 farmers.

The annual “al-Lumi al-Hasawi” festival continues to promote harvesting, marketing and product innovation, reinforcing the crop's branding among Saudi and Gulf consumers. For local families and businesses, the expansion signals stronger food security, more affordable seasonal produce, and new opportunities in fresh and processed citrus products.

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