Egypt hits record watermelon exports to Saudi Arabia

EGYPT – Egypt has expanded its watermelon exports to Saudi Arabia to a record 18,500 tons in the first nine months of 2025, according to EastFruit, bringing in a total of US$6.9 million.

This volume is five times higher than the previous year and surpasses the earlier record set in 2023 by 35 percent.

“Saudi Arabia remains our top market for watermelons, and this year’s demand exceeded expectations,” said an official from Egypt’s export council.

Saudi Arabia imported close to 70 percent of its watermelon supply from Egypt during the reporting period. The Egyptian export season runs from March to September, with shipments peaking between May and July.

In June alone, Egypt shipped 8,700 tons, 2.5 times higher than the total volume shipped during the entire previous year.

While Saudi Arabia produces most of its watermelons, imports continue to play a key role in managing seasonal supply and accessing specific varieties.

Domestic harvests coincide with the peak demand period, which typically occurs when daytime temperatures exceed 45°C. This climate drives strong consumer demand for water-rich fruit.

“Even though we produce large volumes domestically, imported watermelons help us meet consumer needs during the hottest months,” a Saudi distributor explained.

Shifts in regional supply

Geography and logistics also influence import patterns. Northern regions near Jordan and western areas accessible via the Red Sea can receive shipments from neighbouring countries more efficiently than transporting fruit from central production zones.

Jordan had been the main external supplier until 2024, with Egypt, Syria, and Yemen providing additional winter volumes. In 2024, domestic production covered almost 99 percent of local needs, sharply reducing imports.

However, in 2025, rising consumption due to population growth of over 1.5 million people and Jordan’s reduced export capacity created space for Egypt to reclaim market share. This shift allowed Egyptian exporters to set new records during the season.

“Population growth and regional water shortages created an opportunity for us, and we worked hard to meet the demand,” said the Egyptian exporter.

Egypt’s record exports underline the country’s growing role in regional fruit trade and highlight the dynamic nature of supply and demand in the Gulf market.

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