Mohammed Al Jouhari, Chair of the festival’s Protocol and Social Communication Committee, highlighted the significance of the turnout and sales, which doubled over the previous year, signalling expanding consumer interest and economic opportunity in the region. He confirmed that organisers plan to scale up future editions, aiming for broader participation and elevated offerings.
Sheikh Saeed bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Deputy Chief of the Ruler’s Office in Khorfakkan, officially opened the festival. He toured the diverse exhibition and lauded the strides made in mango cultivation across the Eastern Region, describing it as a rising driver of agricultural development.
Exhibitors included more than 35 local and regional farmers who presented upwards of 200 mango varieties, from indigenous Emirati cultivars to African and South Asian species. Innovative entries such as “Mango Mazayna”, “Best Farmer’s Display” and “Largest Mango” competitions added dynamic engagement to the event.
Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber, emphasised the festival’s evolving focus on smart agriculture, stressing the importance of transitioning from volume-driven yields to quality and market competitiveness. He also stressed integration of sustainable practices to support long-term economic success.
Dr Muhammad Abdullah Al‑Murr Alnaqbi, Chair of the Municipal Council of Khorfakkan, spoke of the event as a platform to support local farmers and eco-tourism. He said it created employment opportunities, preserved traditional farming and artisanal heritage, and amplified the region’s socio-economic identity.
Khalil Mohammed Al Mansouri, Director of Expo Khorfakkan, noted that the festival stimulated engagement with youth and emerging agripreneurs. By blending tradition with modern techniques, the festival positioned the region as a budding destination in agri-tourism and food culture.
Participating agricultural and fertilisation firms demonstrated the latest in crop enhancement technologies, tools, and seedlings for sale. Workshops focused on sustainable cultivation methods, while live heritage performances and family-friendly zones enriched visitor experience.
Organisers forged strategic partnerships with local bodies and institutions including Al Sharqiya TV, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Bee’ah and the Department of Social Services. The aim was to strengthen cultural outreach and ensure the event’s relevance across communities.
This edition of the festival underscored Khorfakkan’s strategic vision to elevate its agricultural sector. By promoting eco-tourism, encouraging cutting-edge farming methods and nurturing a new generation of agricultural entrepreneurs, the region positions itself at the confluence of heritage and innovation.
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