By Mia Veal

The MENA region has a long history with olives both through culture and agriculture. Olives have a cultural significance due to the fruit being referenced in the Torah, Bible, and the Qur’an. For instance, the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) considered olive oil to be sacred, and to use the oil to anoint themselves. This has led olives to be a symbol of life, peace, unity, and harmony. While within certain cultures olives were also a sign of wealth and sophistication. 

The cultivation of olive trees dates back to nearly 6,000 years in the MENA region. Countries in the MENA region partake in the production of olives due to the trees being able to withstand drought, to live long (up to 1000 years), and reliable source of food and oil. Many countries in the MENA make up the top consumers and producers of olives in the globe. However, climate change in recent years and the desertification of the region have created difficult conditions for olive trees to grow and sustain. The change in rain patterns, insect infestation, strong winds, frosts, and the spread of harmful bacteria have caused a decrease in olive harvests across the MENA.