BAHA: In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Baha region, a humble cactus is sparking an agricultural revolution. Known locally as Al-Barshmi, the prickly pear has blossomed from a niche crop into a booming industry.
Originally grown only on private farms, cactus cultivation has led to scientific research and the production of a variety of food, medical, and cosmetic products.
The triumph of this fruit is evident in the vibrant green, yellow and red hues that adorn the mountains, terraces, valleys and plains of Baja. The regular rainfall in the region makes this spectacle even more spectacular.
Fad Al-Zahrani, Director of the Baha Branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water Resources and Agriculture, spoke about the government's commitment to this agricultural renaissance.
“We have set up dedicated production lines and oil presses that benefit all local farmers,” he said.
He also hinted at plans to build an integrated cactus city developed through a more comprehensive production line and collaboration with local cactus associations.
Faeq Al-Ghamdi, the initiative’s architect, recalled its humble beginnings, which he said began with 80 intertwined seedlings on one farm but grew into a network of 26 cooperative farms that produce 40 to 70 tonnes annually.
By 2021, the farm had over 400 seedlings of premium varieties, including “Gimoncaryo” and “Marez”. This growth has allowed it to diversify beyond simple fruit production into a range of innovative products, including cactus juice, ice cream and soap.
Al-Ghamdi's original farm currently has 3,000 seedlings, including imported varieties, and an annual harvest of 3-5 tons.
“We have developed 20 products in just four years, some already registered and others in various stages of registration and research,” he said, adding that more innovations, including fragrance extracts, are in the pipeline.
The project, known as the Al-Sara Al-Barshmi Initiative, also resulted in seven scientific studies aimed at sustainable development of cactus plants.
Al-Ghamdi’s vision is to go beyond cultivation and establish Baha as a regional leader in cactus production, achieve domestic self-sufficiency, and open up export markets. The project is currently working to double the cultivation area, build a model agricultural city, create a specialized processing industry, and market 30 cactus products.
“The cultivation process begins with what we call a pad or stem,” he said. “This section is carefully separated from the mother plant, and the high fluid content of the pad allows the cutting to dry out in the sun for seven to 10 days, preparing it for planting. Once hardened, the planting form is carefully chosen.”
Aside from the economic impact, the cactus boom also promises significant health benefits, according to Dr. Nadia Alzarani, a nutrition expert at Albaha University.
“Prickly pears come in a variety of colors, from green to red, but the red variety is particularly sweet,” she said.
She noted that it is rich in fiber, vitamins E, C, K and various minerals, “which help with weight management and controlling blood sugar and lipid levels.”
Al-Jarani said another use of the prickly pear fruit is for skin care.
“Cactus’ rich vitamin and mineral content plays a vital role in improving the appearance and health of the skin,” she said.
Many farmers in the area grow prickly pears, taking advantage of the area's unique environmental assets, fertile soil, and abundant water resources.
They began to embrace modern growing techniques and introduce new varieties of fruits and trees, many of which were previously unknown in the area.
