A Tropical Haven

While many people perceive Saudi Arabia to be largely desert, the vast Kingdom has regions that favor growing a variety of produce due to local weather and rainfall patterns.

On the west coast is Umluj, which is a town that has become known for growing an array of delicious tropical fruits, including mangos.

Umluj mango farmer and entrepreneur Mohammed Gaith Al Hojori tells us how mango farming was just a hobby for him to have fun with before it became a business. He became captivated by this extraordinary fruit and wanted to learn more.

Umluj's moderate climate in summer and winter, coupled with an artesian well for watering, were the perfect conditions for a thriving mango farm.

“From its sweetness to sourness and delectability, the mango is indescribable," says Mohammed. "The outside world always finds it surprising that Umluj is known for its mango farming and that mango trees are abundant here."

With an established farm up and running, he’s now trying to motivate his children to love farming and take over his farm eventually. He shows them how to grow and harvest the mangos, which are distributed far and wide.

Chef Afnan Aljaadi is one such recipient of Mohammed's mangos. She has decided to make the Arabic desert Mahalabia with the mangos he gives her. She is grateful to receive fresh produce from the local farming community that she can use in her recipes.

When The Red Sea and AMAALA tourism destinations are opened, the aim is to locally source food items as much as possible. This is part of Red Sea Global's goal to enhance the environment, community and economy of the areas it's developing.

“The mango farmers in Umluj are very supportive of each other," says Mohammed. "We are like one family, one home. I’m thankful that this region and the entire Red Sea coast are hosting projects sponsored by the Kingdom and its Vision 2030. The farmers will benefit greatly from future projects.”

About Umluj

Nestled on Saudi Arabia's stunning west coast, Umluj is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by international visitors. With its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Umluj is an idyllic day trip for guests at The Red Sea's resorts.

Just under an hour's drive from The Red Sea, Umluj is a getaway for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the town's rich culture and history, and explore the vibrant local markets, where you can sample the region's delicious cuisine and enjoy traditional arts and crafts.

Every Friday for three months of the year, guests will have the opportunity to visit Amerah Souq in Umluj, which was launched as one of Red Sea Global's Socioeconomic Empowerment projects. It is the first market to highlight the authentic products of Umluj and aims to upskill local businesses by providing a direct market for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).