Jazan’s mountainous areas are entering a new phase focused on integrating agriculture, environmental resources, tourism and investment.
The mountains of Jazan are entering a new stage of development following the Cabinet’s decision to abolish the Jazan Mountainous Areas Development and Reconstruction Authority and transfer its responsibilities to the Strategic Office for the Development of Jazan Region and the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture.
The development journey began in 1396 AH with the establishment of the Fayfa Development and Reconstruction Authority to address the distinctive geographical conditions and needs of mountain communities. In 1429 AH, its mandate was expanded through a Royal Order and the authority was renamed the Jazan Mountainous Areas Development and Reconstruction Authority.
Over the years, the authority supported agricultural research and development, including trials of crops suited to mountainous conditions. Saudi coffee became a key focus, with initiatives supporting promising varieties, farmer assistance and the distribution of more than one million coffee seedlings. The authority also explored plant tissue culture and supported the cultivation of aromatic trees and sandalwood.
Its work also extended to identifying tourism opportunities and promoting the natural and cultural assets of Jazan’s mountainous areas. Agricultural terraces, highlands, vegetation, fog and cultural heritage have increasingly been viewed as interconnected resources with economic, environmental and tourism potential.
The restructuring is expected to bring agricultural and environmental expertise together with regional development planning and investment. The new approach aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives of economic diversification, sustainable development and greater utilisation of regional resources.
Jazan’s mountains are therefore moving from a focus on developing and identifying their potential toward maximising their economic, environmental and tourism value as part of the region’s broader development strategy.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
