Saudi Saffron Meets ISO Global Standard Under Estidamah Localization Project

Saudi Arabia achieved a major milestone in local saffron production, as first-grade saffron was confirmed to meet the international ISO 3632 standard.
 The results were confirmed through laboratory analyses conducted at internationally accredited facilities, underscoring the quality of the national product and its potential to compete in global markets.
 The achievement is part of a saffron localization project launched in 2024 by the National Research and Development Center for Sustainable Agriculture (Estidamah), in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture and King Saud University.
 The project aims to advance applied research, implement specialized agricultural initiatives, and improve production efficiency and value chains for high-return crops. The initiative included field and research trials across 10 regions of the Kingdom.
 The trials assessed the suitability of agricultural environments, selected optimal varieties, and applied best practices based on field study results. The efforts help improve product quality and ensure sustainable production.
 Under the project, more than 500,000 saffron corms were distributed to 43 farmers, and research outcomes were implemented on more than 40 farms, covering over 364,000 square meters.
 These contributed to higher local production and advanced quality standards. The project followed an integrated approach, combining scientific research with field application.
 Farmers received training in specialized saffron cultivation practices, from planting and crop management to flower harvesting, processing, drying, and storage. These measures ensure the preservation of the product’s quality characteristics. The milestone reflects the results of Estidamah’s applied research and specialized initiatives.
 It represents a strategic step toward localizing saffron production in the Kingdom according to internationally recognized standards. The project strengthens the reliability of first-grade Saudi saffron, reinforces its market presence, and supports the development of value chains for high-value crops.