Cultivation of rice in the desert of Makkah, a unique and successful experience in the world

 An agricultural engineer from Saudi Arabia has surprised the whole world by growing rice in the desert of Mecca. This is the first successful experiment of its kind in the entire world.

According to Al-Arabiya Net, engineer Yusuf Abdul Rahman Bandaqji, who is considered an expert in rice cultivation and modern farming, says that he came up with the idea of ​​farming in Jeddah two years ago. He organized an agricultural farm adjacent to the Red Sea under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture and Water. Irrigated with sea water. Sea water is considered to be very salty, while studying various plants and water used for irrigation as well as warm climate and weather. In the context of this experience, the idea of ​​rice cultivation in the desert of Makkah came to mind.

Bandaqji said that the experience of rice cultivation in dry areas is the first of its kind in the world. Rice was grown in the Makkah desert with environmentally friendly organic materials and irrigation five times a month. Along with this, another experiment is being done to continue harvesting for five years.

Bandaqji said that the advisors of the Research Center under the Ministry of Agriculture approved the implementation of untouched organic material and experience, then the cultivation of rice in the desert was started.

"They give 12 hours a day to the rice farm," said Bandaqji. Two rice farms with an area of ​​two hectares were established. There is a part in which experiments are carried out with regard to irrigation or plants.

"Rice cultivation is apparently similar to wheat, but the system and characteristics of both are different from each other," Bandaqji said.

According to Bandaqji, 'Rice can be cultivated throughout the year, rice can be grown in every season. Three types of rice are being cultivated in my agricultural farm. White rice, Hassa red rice and Indonesian black rice. All three are being cultivated.

Bandaji also said that 'in the next few months, he will also experience Sri Lankan tea in the suburbs of Makkah.'