Global Experts Gather in Riyadh to Advance Smart Farming and the Circular Date Economy

Riyadh – Experts, researchers and industry leaders are set to gather in Riyadh for the Sixth International Date Palm Conference and Exhibition, an event aimed at advancing innovation, sustainability and global cooperation within the growing date sector.

The conference, titled “World of Dates,” will be held from Nov. 25 to Dec. 4 and will bring together specialists from around the world to exchange knowledge and explore solutions for long-term agricultural development.

Organized by the National Center for Palms and Dates at King Saud University, the event returns this year with expanded scientific and commercial programs.

It includes a partnership with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, strengthening the event’s focus on cutting-edge research, food security strategies and future investment opportunities.

The conference carries the theme “Investment and Innovation to Explore New Horizons for the Palm and Date Sector,” highlighting the sector’s strategic value for both national and international markets.

Sessions will explore the latest advancements in agritech, sustainable farming practices and digital transformation in agricultural management.

Central discussions will address challenges linked to palm pests and diseases, bringing global experts together to present new research and practical solutions.

The program will also emphasize the role of smart farming technologies, including precision systems, data-driven irrigation and automated monitoring tools that can boost productivity and improve overall quality.

Post-harvest automation will be a major focus of the event, with speakers highlighting ways to optimize processing, reduce waste and enhance efficiency.

Innovation in sorting, packaging and preservation technologies will be presented as essential steps toward strengthening the circular economy within the date industry.

A number of pioneering research studies and development initiatives will be showcased, including those nominated for the National Center for Palms and Dates Award.

These contributions are expected to highlight progress in biotechnology, sustainable practices and environmental resilience for palm cultivation.

The exhibition component will be open to the public free of charge from 4–11 p.m. daily, offering visitors a comprehensive experience through region-themed pavilions that showcase the Kingdom’s diverse date varieties and cultural heritage.

Each pavilion will highlight regional identities, farming traditions and agricultural techniques that have shaped the sector over generations.

An independent exhibitors’ area will provide space for companies, farmers and entrepreneurs to present processed date products, new technologies and market innovations.
A live-cooking zone supervised by Saudi and international chefs will allow visitors to experience culinary creations centered around dates.

The event will also feature a dedicated restaurant and cafe area serving local and international dishes made with Saudi dates, reflecting their rising global appeal.
A handicrafts area will display products and artwork connected to palms and dates, shining a spotlight on the deep cultural ties embedded in the sector.

Visitors can explore the Palm Heritage Museum, an immersive experience that traces the history of palm cultivation and the evolution of the date industry.

The museum highlights traditional practices, technological advancements and the significant role dates have played in social and economic development.

Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in the date market.
In 2024, the Kingdom ranked first in global date exports, reaching 133 countries and achieving export values of SR1.695 billion ($452 million) with production exceeding 1.9 million tonnes.

The conference aims to build on this momentum by exploring global partnerships, enhancing investment opportunities and promoting sustainable practices across the entire value chain.

With its focus on innovation and collaboration, the event is expected to support long-term growth and reaffirm the Kingdom’s global leadership in the date industry.