Quality hand-picked dates can be found at, or ordered from, stores such as Bateel or Talah AlJood, or at festivals and farms across the country. Dates vary in size and taste and their price is dependent on their availability and price per stalk. Below are some of the most famous dates to try while you’re in Saudi.
Ajwa dates
One of the most popular dates in Saudi, especially in Al Madinah, is the Ajwa date. The Ajwa date’s dark color and intense sweetness make it unique. “Visitors buy [Ajwa dates] and give them as gifts to their friends and family in their countries,” says Saeed Al Harbi, owner of Alia Al Madinah farm.
Amber dates
Known as the dates of royalty, premium amber dates (sometimes called ambara or ambar dates) are the most expensive date in Saudi, sometimes reaching SAR80 (about US$21). Their price is a reflection of their scarcity. The seed and palm tree are rare, making it challenging to find premium amber dates in most markets. They also have an exquisite, dry taste, making them pleasing to most.
Safawi dates
Unlike other dates, safawi dates are distinguished by their abundance, and they can be found in nearly all the markets of Al Madinah. These medium-sized dates are black and semi-dry.
Sukkary dates
The people of Qassim are proud of their Sukkary dates, known for their crisp texture and sweet taste. They’re also referred to as “golden dates” because of their yellowish cast (though they sometimes have brown spots). Due to their quality, distinctive taste and high demand, Sukkary dates are relatively expensive compared with other types of dates in Saudi.
Sagai dates
With their distinctive shape and red color, Sagai dates (also known as Sag dates) are usually stuffed with cardamom and nuts and served on special occasions and holidays. These dates, produced in the Al Kharj Governorate in Saudi, are also used to decorate tables during Eid.
Khalas dates
Khalas dates are famous for their caramelized taste, which makes them a sweet treat when sipping on Arabic or embers tea, both popular drinks in Saudi. Distinguished by their yellow apricot-like color and good flavor, Khalas dates are one of the most sought-after commercial dates in markets since they maintain their flavor even after being stored for a long time.
Barhi dates
Barhi dates are distinguished by their yellow-orange color, round shape and medium size as well as by their sweet taste, which resembles a mix of caramel and brown sugar. These dates have a thin, creamy texture, and are said to benefit digestion.
Majdool dates
Known in Saudi as the “king of dates,” the Majdool date is perhaps one of the most famous types of dates in the world. These large dates are known for their size as well as for their strong, sweet taste and soft texture. Frequently used in juices, you can sip on beverages made from Majdool dates year-round.
For the full date experience in Saudi, plan to visit one of the many date festivals or fairs held across the country.
Begins in August and lasts for two to three months
The Buraydah Dates Festival in the Qassim region is one the largest date festivals in the world. The festival creates more than 4,000 seasonal jobs, making it not only an important cultural event but also an important economic event. More than 45 date varieties — most notably Sukkary, Barhi, blonde and Sagai — are promoted at the festival. Qassim is one of the most prominent date production areas in Saudi; sales of dates in the region exceed SAR1 billion (about US$266 million) per year.
Usually runs from January to February
Attracting hundreds of thousands of people, the Al Ahsa Date Festival is an annual event not to be missed. In addition to tasting Arabia’s most famous sweet fruit varieties, the festival showcases handmade crafts and hosts folklore and artistic performances. At night, you can enjoy food trucks and live music at the festival market. “Al Ahsa is a beautiful city and its weather is wonderful,” adds a Canadian tourist who visited the festival and area date farms.
September
Saudi, Al Madinah Al Munawwarah ranks third in the production of dates, producing 300,000 tons of the fruit annually. The Season of Al Madinah Dates is economically and religiously important to the city’s residents and visitors. With the slogan “Our dates are a blessing,” the festival attracts many people interested in palm trees, manufacturing and regional crafts. In previous seasons, the festival has offered various activities, including programs for children, workshops, training and awareness courses, and even a tour of a date forest.
Usually from the end of September through mid-to-late October
The historical city of AlUla produces about 90,000 tons of high-quality dates, which are picked from 2.3 million palm trees grown in the city. With its unique location in Al Forsan Village, opposite Elephant Mountain, the AlUla Dates Festival includes a date auction, handmade crafts, local products, and activities for children and adults.
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