Farmers have 29 days left before the ban on growing perennial fodder takes effect on November 16, 2026, requiring a switch to seasonal fodder crops, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture announced. The measure aims to protect non-renewable natural resources and meet the Kingdom's water security targets under Saudi Vision 2030.

The decision covers all land planted with perennial fodder in the sedimentary shelf areas: Al-Jouf, Riyadh, Hail, the Eastern Province, Qassim and Tabuk.

Seasonal fodder that licensed farms may grow under the approved rules includes single-cut Egyptian clover, multi-cut Egyptian clover, Italian ryegrass and annual ryegrass.

The ministry said the shift will cut the use of non-renewable groundwater in agriculture, reduce its depletion and make better use of natural resources. Farmers who wish to grow seasonal fodder can apply for a licence at https://naama.sa/services/details/92aed338-2639-43c5-9941-b1571fea63bb