Tihama Area Of Al-Baha Region: A Prime Destination For Beekeepers And Honey Production

The Tihama area in Al-Baha region is a hub for beekeeping, thanks to its moderate climate and abundant flowering trees. Thousands of beekeepers are drawn here with their hives to produce honey from seasonal blossoms like Acacia and Ziziphus Spina-Christi. The area's lush valleys and greenery create an ideal environment for this industry.

Beekeeper Mohammed Al-Zahrani explained that the migration from the Sarawat Mountains to Tihama is influenced by climate, rainfall, and tree diversity. This move revitalizes bees after the Ziziphus Spina-Christi season, as their numbers decline and they require fresh pastures for reproduction.

Ali Al-Ghamdi, another beekeeper, highlighted that relocating to areas like Qalwa, Al-Hujrah, and Wadi Al-Ahsabah provides bees with ample food due to year-round greenery. This relocation also shields them from the cold of high mountains, which can be deadly for bees.

Al-Ghamdi emphasized that beekeeping demands endurance, knowledge, and experience. Despite its challenges, it remains a vital industry and a significant economic resource in the region.

Saleh Al-Omari praised the coordination among beekeepers in choosing sites. They ensure each apiary is spaced out to prevent bee crossbreeding and promote proper nutrition while avoiding disease transmission. He stressed the importance of adhering to these practices.

The Chairman of the Beekeepers Cooperative Association in Al-Baha, Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Shadwi, stated that about 3,000 beekeepers are registered with the association. These include professionals with over 1,000 hives and amateurs averaging around 100 hives each.

Honey Production Statistics

The region contributes approximately 20% of Saudi Arabia's annual honey production, amounting to about 1,000 tons across 15 different varieties. The diverse climate and vegetation from Sarawat to Tihama support year-round honey production.

The Saudi Press Agency visited these sites to capture insights from beekeepers and showcase the natural beauty of the area. The Tihama area's pleasant climate is currently enhanced by flowing valleys and rich vegetation.

With inputs from SPA