AlUla Fresh - Mazaq

It's possible that these historic trade and pilgrimage routes would not have been established without the refuge of the oasis within this arid desert. The desert must have seemed surreal to weary traders and religious pilgrims. But in addition to being a warm welcome for travelers, the oasis has long given the civilizations of AlUla access to water, food, and shelter.

Even now, a variety of crops thrive in the rich soil, shielding residents from the elements under the lush canopy of date palms. The AlUla oasis is home to 80 natural springs, according to local mythology. Over the centuries, they have given the area access to water, which is essential to life. The oasis changed over time as many civilizations created ever-more complex agricultural systems for growing crops. The locals had considerable success with their three-story gardens that replicated the oasis's natural environment.

By using this technique, the higher date palm trees protected the more delicate trees, such as citrus and Moringa Peregrina. Smaller plants, such as fragrant mint, basil, and other herbs, flourished on the oasis floor beneath that second level. The second and third-story crops have changed over time to meet the demands of the prevailing civilization, but the top layer of date palms has stayed constant.

AlUla is not only the most picturesque desert region in the Kingdom, but it also has hidden treasures like AlUla Fresh Farm. The trees at the current AlUla Farm are likewise arranged in the manner that was once arranged in the three-stories system during the Nabataean times. 2.3 million date palm trees may be found at AlUla Farm, and the area generates more than 90,000 tonnes of dates annually.

Citrus continues to be a significant crop on this farm, where more than 200,000 trees are home to 29 different fruit kinds. Most of the citrus fruits grown in AlUla are oranges, grapefruit, and lemons.

The Moringa Peregrina tree, a native of the area, is well known for the exquisite oil that is extracted from its seeds and is thought to be more expensive than that produced by other varieties of Moringa trees. The 90,000 farmed Moringa Peregrina trees in the area are protected by the date palm canopy of the oasis, and the oil is now used in upscale cosmetics and perfumes.

Children and adults alike enjoy the incredible experience that the farm has to offer.

How to explore AlUla Fresh?

- The adventure begins when you reach the entrance and is handed an empty basket to cherry-pick the fresh produce at the farm. Different fruits are available in different seasons.

- You will be motivated to choose the fruit, which will then be placed in a basket. The majority of the trees produce various citrus fruits.

- The path leads to a small cottage where visitors present their harvest. Staff can offer the fruit blend and serve a refreshing juice on the spot.

- You can even pluck dates from the trees and enjoy the freshness of the fruit to its fullest.

- A narrow path offers peace and quiet — a welcome change for those seeking a break from busy city life.

- You can visit a corner in this farm, a replica of the village within the premises, where women sit weaving hand-held fans and coasters. You can ask them to make these items in their desired colors and take them home as souvenirs.

- You can also plant different seeds to leave a part of themselves on the farm forever — just as the farm memories remain with you.