{"id":45391,"date":"2026-07-08T05:17:04","date_gmt":"2026-07-08T05:17:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/?p=45391"},"modified":"2026-07-08T05:44:11","modified_gmt":"2026-07-08T05:44:11","slug":"uae-date-season-begins-with-prices-starting-at-dh15-per-kg","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/2026\/07\/08\/uae-date-season-begins-with-prices-starting-at-dh15-per-kg\/","title":{"rendered":"UAE Date Season Begins with Prices Starting at Dh15 per kg."},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Visitors to the Al Jubail Dates Festival in Sharjah can choose from nearly 20 varieties of fresh dates, while vendors say the peak season for enjoying the fruit’s best quality lasts only about two to three months each year.<\/h4>

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Fresh Date Harvest Brings Wide Choice to UAE Markets as Prices Start at Dh15 per kg<\/h3>

The UAE’s annual fresh date season has officially begun, filling markets with newly harvested fruit from farms across the country. Shoppers visiting Sharjah’s Al Jubail Dates Festival can now find an extensive selection of fresh dates, with prices starting at Dh15 per kilogram, making it one of the most anticipated times of the year for residents looking to enjoy the fruit at its seasonal peak.<\/p>

The festival has become a popular destination for families, food enthusiasts and retailers seeking the freshest produce available. This year’s edition features nearly 20 different varieties, offering customers a broad range of flavours, textures and price points. Whether buyers prefer soft, honey-like dates, semi-dry varieties or premium selections, the market caters to every taste and budget.<\/p>

Most of the fruit currently on display has been harvested from farms across the UAE, reflecting the country’s growing date production and the importance of palm cultivation to local agriculture. Farmers have been delivering freshly picked dates to the market daily, ensuring customers receive fruit that has only recently been harvested.<\/p>

Alongside locally grown produce, traders are also receiving regular shipments from neighbouring Gulf countries, particularly Saudi Arabia and Oman. These imports complement the domestic harvest by offering additional varieties that are popular among residents and visitors alike. Fresh consignments continue to arrive each day, helping maintain a steady supply throughout the early weeks of the season.<\/p>

Retailers say the arrival of the new harvest has created an exciting shopping environment, with customers eager to compare different varieties before making their purchases. Many shoppers visit the festival specifically to sample dates from different regions, appreciating the distinct sweetness, colour and texture that each variety offers.<\/p>

Vendors explain that the fresh date season is relatively short, making this period especially important for consumers who enjoy eating dates at their natural peak. Unlike dried dates, fresh varieties have a softer texture, higher moisture content and a delicate flavour that is available for only a limited time each year. Because of this brief harvest window, demand typically remains strong throughout the season.<\/p>

Traders have also noticed growing interest from tourists and residents who see fresh dates as an essential part of the UAE’s culinary heritage. Many buyers purchase them for home consumption, while others choose premium varieties as gifts for friends and family. The wide selection available this season allows customers to explore both traditional local favourites and imported options from across the region.<\/p>

According to vendors, favourable harvest conditions and consistent supplies have helped keep entry-level prices affordable, with several popular varieties available from Dh15 per kilogram. Premium dates, particularly larger fruits with superior quality and appearance, command higher prices depending on their variety, origin and freshness.<\/p>

The festival continues to showcase the diversity of the region’s date industry, bringing together growers, traders and consumers in one marketplace. With locally harvested fruit arriving daily and imported varieties supplementing supplies from Saudi Arabia and Oman, shoppers have access to one of the widest selections of fresh dates available during the season.<\/p>

As the harvest progresses over the coming weeks, retailers expect fresh deliveries to continue reaching the market, ensuring customers can enjoy the best of the season while supplies last.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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UAE Fresh Date Season: Popular Varieties, Prices and Why Shoppers Are Buying Early<\/h3>

The arrival of the fresh date harvest has brought a wide selection of varieties to UAE markets, giving customers the chance to enjoy newly picked fruit from local farms as well as premium dates sourced from neighbouring countries. At Sharjah’s Al Jubail Dates Festival, traders are offering around 20 varieties, with prices starting from Dh15 per kilogram for some of the most affordable options.<\/p>

For shoppers looking for fresh dates at an accessible price, UAE Naghal is currently among the cheapest varieties available. The locally grown variety is being sold at approximately Dh15 per kilogram and has attracted customers who want to experience the season’s harvest without paying premium prices.<\/p>

Several other UAE-grown dates are also proving popular among visitors. Barhi and Khalas varieties are available at around Dh20 per kilogram, offering customers well-known choices appreciated for their sweetness and texture. Khanizi dates are being sold for about Dh25 per kilogram, while Puchipal is available at a similar price. Sagai, another variety that continues to attract buyers, is priced slightly higher, ranging between Dh25 and Dh30 per kilogram depending on quality and availability.<\/p>

For customers searching for premium imported options, traders are also stocking varieties from Oman and Saudi Arabia. Oman Barhi and Oman Khunaizi are available at approximately Dh25 per kilogram, while Saudi Medjool dates are being offered at around Dh30 per kilogram. Saudi Ajwa, known for its popularity and premium positioning, is among the higher-priced options at about Dh35 per kilogram.<\/p>

Retailers say customer interest has also been strong for fresh Sukkari dates, a variety many shoppers specifically ask about during the season. However, traders explained that fresh Sukkari has not reached the market yet. At present, only preserved Sukkari products are available, with fresh supplies expected later if shipments arrive.<\/p>

The demand for fresh dates is closely linked to their limited seasonal availability. Unlike dried dates, which can be purchased throughout the year, fresh dates appear in markets only during a short harvesting period. This temporary availability makes them highly anticipated among consumers who prefer the softer texture, natural sweetness and distinctive flavour of newly harvested fruit.<\/p>

Traders say the fresh date season generally lasts only two to three months, making it an important period for regular customers. Many Emirati families especially look forward to this time of year, as fresh dates are considered an important part of local food traditions and seasonal shopping habits.<\/p>

Waheed Ul Nabi, a trader at the market, said customers eagerly wait for the arrival of fresh dates because the quality is at its highest during the harvest period. He explained that shoppers prefer buying dates when they are newly collected because they offer a different taste and texture compared with varieties that have been stored for longer periods.<\/p>

According to Nabi, daily sales have already been strong, with traders selling between 50 kilograms and 100 kilograms of fresh dates each day. He expects demand to increase further as more customers become aware of the available varieties and as the season moves forward.<\/p>

The market currently features approximately 20 types of fresh dates, with the majority coming from UAE farms. Local growers continue to supply fresh produce throughout the season, while additional varieties from Saudi Arabia and Oman arrive regularly to expand customer choices.<\/p>

Traders say the combination of local production and imported selections has created a diverse marketplace where shoppers can compare different flavours, sizes and price ranges in one place. From affordable everyday varieties to premium dates often purchased as gifts, the current season offers options for a wide range of customers.<\/p>

As the harvest continues, retailers expect visitor numbers and sales volumes to rise. Many consumers prefer purchasing fresh dates during the peak season to enjoy the fruit at its best quality before supplies become limited. With new deliveries arriving regularly and strong customer interest, UAE markets are expected to remain busy throughout the fresh date season.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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UAE Shoppers Explore More Fresh Date Varieties as Seasonal Demand Grows<\/h3>

Traders at Sharjah’s Al Jubail Dates Festival say customer interest in fresh dates is increasing as more varieties become available during the harvest season. Many visitors are not limiting themselves to a single type of date; instead, they are sampling different varieties to compare their flavours, textures and levels of sweetness before choosing the ones they like most.<\/p>

Abdul Samad, a trader at the festival, said shoppers often prefer to explore several options before making a purchase. According to him, each variety has unique characteristics, with differences in softness, taste, colour and natural sweetness. These qualities encourage customers to try multiple types rather than immediately selecting one variety.<\/p>

He explained that locally cultivated UAE dates remain the first choice for many buyers because of their freshness and connection to the country’s agricultural heritage. Many residents specifically look for dates grown in local farms, especially during the short harvest period when freshly collected produce reaches the market.<\/p>

At the same time, demand for premium imported varieties continues to remain strong. Dates from Saudi Arabia and Oman attract customers who are interested in trying different regional flavours or purchasing higher-end varieties for special occasions and gifts. Traders say imported options add more diversity to the market and allow shoppers to compare dates from different growing regions.<\/p>

Fresh deliveries are continuing regularly, with new supplies arriving almost every day. Sellers expect the selection available at the market to expand further in the coming weeks as additional harvests are collected and more varieties reach consumers.<\/p>

Another trader, Abdul Rasheed, said sales activity has started gaining momentum as customers become more aware that the fresh date season is limited. He noted that many shoppers are already looking ahead and asking about specific varieties that are not yet available.<\/p>

One of the most requested varieties among customers is fresh Sukkari, which has developed a strong following because of its sweet flavour and soft texture. However, traders said fresh Sukkari has not arrived at the market so far, leaving many buyers waiting for future supplies.<\/p>

Rasheed said more varieties are expected to appear as the harvest progresses, giving customers additional choices throughout the season. He added that the market typically sees increasing activity as new batches arrive and more people come to purchase fresh dates before the short season ends.<\/p>

Traders believe the growing interest reflects the importance of fresh dates in the UAE’s food culture. For many consumers, the annual harvest is an opportunity to enjoy varieties that are not commonly available in their freshest form throughout the year.<\/p>

With demand increasing, daily deliveries continuing and more varieties expected soon, retailers anticipate a busy period ahead at the festival. Customers visiting in the coming weeks are likely to find an even wider selection of local and imported fresh dates, allowing them to discover new favourites while enjoying the peak of the harvest season.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Souq Al Jubail Dates Festival Continues Through September with More Varieties Expected<\/h3>

The annual Souq Al Jubail Dates Festival in Sharjah is continuing to attract visitors as the UAE enters its fresh date harvest season. The 11th edition of the event will remain open until September 15, bringing together traders from the market as well as exhibitors from outside the area to showcase a wide selection of seasonal produce and date-based products.<\/p>

The festival has become a popular destination for residents and visitors who want to experience the variety of fresh dates available during the limited harvest period. Shoppers can explore nearly 20 different types of fresh dates currently on display, with more varieties expected to arrive as farms continue their seasonal collection.<\/p>

Beyond buying dates, visitors can also learn more about the traditional methods used in date farming and the importance of palm cultivation in the region. The event highlights the cultural connection between the UAE and dates, offering guests an opportunity to understand how the fruit is grown, harvested and prepared before reaching markets.<\/p>

Organisers say the festival plays an important role in connecting farmers, retailers and consumers. By creating a dedicated marketplace for fresh dates, the event helps local growers and sellers promote their products while allowing customers to purchase freshly harvested fruit directly during the peak season.<\/p>

The festival also features a variety of products made from dates, giving visitors a chance to explore different ways the fruit is used. From traditional offerings to modern date-based items, the event showcases the versatility of dates beyond regular consumption.<\/p>

Traders say the current selection represents only part of what will be available during the season. As harvesting continues across farms in the UAE and neighbouring regions, additional varieties are expected to reach the market in the coming weeks, giving shoppers even more choices.<\/p>

Among the varieties expected to appear as the season progresses are Hilali, Khashkar, Mazini, Jabri, Baqal, Sallani, Bu Maan, Khadrawi, Lulu, Shishi and Ain Baqar. Each variety has its own characteristics, including differences in sweetness, texture, colour and size, allowing customers to explore a wide range of flavours.<\/p>

Retailers believe the arrival of new varieties will further increase interest in the festival, as many date enthusiasts prefer to return throughout the season to try different types. The limited availability of fresh dates makes the festival an important annual opportunity for consumers looking for the best quality harvest.<\/p>

The event also reflects the UAE’s long-standing agricultural traditions and the continued importance of date farming in the country. By bringing together producers, sellers and customers in one location, the festival supports the local date industry while preserving knowledge about traditional cultivation practices.<\/p>

With weeks remaining before the festival concludes, visitors can expect more fresh arrivals, expanded selections and continued opportunities to discover both popular and lesser-known date varieties. The event is set to remain a key attraction for those looking to enjoy the UAE’s seasonal harvest at its freshest.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The UAE’s annual date harvest has begun, with freshly picked local varieties now reaching markets across the country at prices starting from Dh15 per kilogram, offering shoppers a wide selection early in the season.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":45392,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"pmpro_default_level":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[11,9],"tags":[],"post_template":[],"top_category":[],"class_list":["post-45391","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-health","category-uae","pmpro-has-access"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45391","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=45391"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45391\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":45399,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45391\/revisions\/45399"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/45392"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=45391"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=45391"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=45391"},{"taxonomy":"post_template","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post_template?post=45391"},{"taxonomy":"top_category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/top_category?post=45391"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}