An aerial view of Khorfakkan city. WAM

The eastern coastal areas and cities of the Emirate of Sharjah are characterised by their mountainous nature and valleys fed by fresh wells, making the region a home for producing the finest types of mangoes.

The mango tree has been a part of most people's homes since the time when houses were simple mud structures. Even in our modern era, the production by farmers and people in the eastern region is distinguished by its diversity of local mangoes in various sizes, types, and colours. There is abundant production meeting the demand for them even before the emergence of modern import operations.

The region's people have relied entirely on the “mango” fruit, a summer fruit that helps overcome the high summer temperatures. The local fruit is distinguished by its smaller size and the production of other large and medium-sized species.

The farms and suburbs of Khorfakkan are distinguished by the best types of mangoes due to the fresh groundwater for which Khorfakkan has been known since ancient times.

The competent authorities were keen to embody the importance of the mango and its relationship with the people in Khorfakkan by organising the (Annual Mango Festival) in its third edition, which begins tomorrow, Friday, at the Expo Center Khorfakkan. This is the largest event of its kind in the region, which witnesses a large turnout and broad participation from various groups in the city.

The festival is the largest gathering of mangoes in the region, with participation from farmers, institutions, and people showcasing the earth’s bounties of this fruit, which some call the “Queen of Fruits.”

Mohammed Al Jawhari, the festival's general supervisor, confirmed that the festival is witnessing a great development in terms of demand, follow-up, and display of mangoes. More than 150 varieties of mangoes, varying in shapes, sizes, colors, and tastes, are expected to be displayed, all from local farms in the region and throughout the country. The festival also expects more than 25 farmers to participate.

The festival also witnesses participation from countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman. The festival includes various workshops and competitions for mango baskets.

Al Jawhari added: “The festival is distinguished by the fact that the products displayed are organic, produced and grown without the use of any pesticides. This is what dramatically arouses the public's admiration, in addition to the many varieties of fruit. The festival allowed farmers to introduce and display local products on this platform, open new markets, and allow those interested in mango cultivation to exchange ideas and experiences and benefit from the expertise of old and experienced farmers.

The festival also attracted those wishing to invest in the agricultural field, motivating them to enter farming projects that benefit them and have an excellent financial return.

Al Jawhari called for expanding the cultivation of fruits and vegetables as much as possible and organizing events and festivals for other types of local fruits to enhance interest in them and benefit from their economic and social returns.

WAM