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THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SAUDI ARABIAN COFFEE
Saudi Arabian coffee, also known as Al-Qahwa, is not only a traditional drink but also an emblem of hospitality and an important economic asset in the region. The significance of coffee in Saudi Arabia's culture and society cannot be understated, as it is considered an essential part of any social gathering, event, or meeting.
Cultural and Historical Context Coffee was widespread in the Yemeni region of Arabia by the 15th century and spread to other parts of the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, within the next hundred years. It became integral to social interactions, not just within homes but also in public coffee houses known as qahveh khaneh. These establishments served as hubs for a variety of activities, ranging from discussions and news sharing to entertainment and political debate. The coffee culture in Saudi Arabia has traditionally emphasized serving the drink as a gesture of hospitality and respect.
Saudi Arabia's Coffee Market and Production Although Saudi Arabia is not a major coffee producer on a global scale, it has shown potential for growth in coffee
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production. With the government's Vision 2030 initiative aiming to diversify the economy, coffee production has gained attention as a sector for development. As of the end of 2021, Saudi Arabia had around 400,000 coffee trees capable of producing about 800 tons of coffee per year. The goal is to plant 1.3 million coffee trees by 2025 to increase production significantly. Saudi Arabia's approach includes both modernizing the industry and preserving traditional coffee production methods, such as those used for Khawlani coffee, a highly prized Arabica variety grown in the region.
