Honey stands as one of the paramount agricultural products in the Aseer region, owing to the natural and climatic diversity that characterizes its mountain peaks and fertile plains. Renowned for its exceptional quality and distinction, Aseer's honey has been a local hallmark for decades, with beekeeping evolving into a specialized craft practiced by numerous skilled and experienced residents.
Beekeepers in Aseer embark on seasonal journeys during both summer and winter, strategically aligning with the periods of abundance to ensure a consistent production throughout the year. The summer months witness the influx of thousands of beekeepers to the verdant terraces of Sarat, following the rainy seasons. Here, bees forage on the nectar of flowering trees and shrubs such as acacias, sumac, sharam, athal, and arak, safeguarding the bee colonies and their queens from the sweltering heat in the plains and valleys of Tihama. As winter descends, the beekeepers transition to these areas to commence honey production, extracting nectar from Sidr, Samr, Dhiyan, Siyal, and 'Arfaj trees.
The production and industry of beekeeping receive dedicated attention in the Aseer region, with vigilant oversight from government agencies. This commitment is underscored by its inclusion in the initiatives of Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program 2020. These efforts encompass the facilitation of crucial logistical services for beekeepers, continuous support and guidance, the development of specialized programs for beekeeping, the enhancement of honey production quality and efficiency, the bolstering of beekeepers' capabilities through research and development, and the preservation and protection of bee pastures.
Honey sourced from the plains of Aseer is revered as one of the most coveted gifts that Aseeris present to their guests, adorning their tables or serving as a token of affection for friends and relatives. This sentiment was underscored during the Global Food Gifts Challenge in 2023 by the International Institute of Cooking, Culture, and Tourism, where Tihami Sidr honey clinched the esteemed Best Taste award. The competition, held under the auspices of the Culinary Arts Authority under the Saudi Ministry of Culture.
