The city of Buraidah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, hosted a festive ceremony on Sunday evening, 13 September 2026, as part of the Buraidah International Dates Carnival. The ceremony was graced by His Royal Highness Prince Dr. Faisal bin Mishaal bin Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Governor of Qassim Region, and attended by several ministers, senior officials, and prominent figures.

On this occasion, His Excellency Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), delivered an address highlighting the Carnival’s distinguished standing and growing global recognition. The world’s largest date market has been registered by Guinness World Records, while the knowledge, skills, traditions, and practices associated with the date palm have been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Dr. AlMalik stated that the date palm has been closely connected to humankind since ancient times, serving as a lifelong companion and source of livelihood while remaining deeply rooted in human memory and consciousness. It is an integral part of Saudi identity and a living testament to the profound bond between the Saudi people, their land, and their heritage. The date palm is also honored through its mention in more than 20 verses of the Holy Quran, reflecting its blessed status and civilizational significance.

The ICESCO Director-General noted that the Buraidah International Dates Carnival has transcended the conventional concept of a marketplace to become a season heralding a promising future, as Qassim dates make their way into global markets, supported by accumulated expertise and outstanding product quality.

He added that ICESCO stands ready to provide support and cooperation, marking the beginning of a new phase of promising partnership between entrepreneurship and the fields of education, science, and culture. This commitment stems from the Organization’s belief that the Islamic world deserves an advanced position in development and innovation.

His Excellency announced ICESCO’s readiness to cooperate in promoting the Buraidah International Dates Carnival as a prominent heritage and economic landmark and to invite countries across the Islamic world to participate, opening broader prospects for cultural exchange and economic cooperation.

Dr. AlMalik concluded his address by reciting a poem titled “Peace Be upon the Date Palms of Qassim,” which was warmly received by His Royal Highness the Governor and the audience.

At the close of the ceremony, His Royal Highness the Governor of Qassim Region honored His Excellency Dr. Salim M. AlMalik in recognition of his participation and attendance, as well as ICESCO’s contribution to supporting initiatives that promote heritage and highlight its civilizational and development value.