The date harvest season in the UAE, known locally as the Rutab or Al Qayz season, runs every from mid-June through August, peaking in July. This period is marked by fresh, soft, and moist semi-ripe dates, found on palm trees before they turn into fully dried dates.
The date season in the UAE is currently experiencing its peak, with July ending and August just around the corner. Here are a few ways to enjoy this fruit in Ras Al Khaimah before the season ends.
Which Dates are Popular in Ras Al Khaimah?
Fard dates are known for their glossy, smooth skins and irresistibly succulent texture. Medjool dates, meanwhile, are often referred to as the ‘king of dates’ thanks to their generous size, rich flesh and naturally sweet, honey-like flavour. Soft and indulgent, they are perfect for snacking or adding natural sweetness to desserts.
Khalas dates are another favourite, offering a caramel-like sweetness with subtle nutty notes and a slightly chewier texture. They pair particularly well with Arabic coffee and can be enjoyed in both sweet and savoury dishes. Khidri dates, on the other hand, are large, dark and slightly wrinkled, with an appearance similar to raisins.
Buying Dates in Ras Al Khaimah
With date palms thriving across Ras Al Khaimah, the fruit has long been part of the emirate’s local food culture. Traditional markets and neighbourhood stores offer plenty of opportunities to browse different varieties, from dates grown in the UAE to popular imports from across the region.
Local fruit and vegetable markets are often a good place to start, particularly during the harvest season when fresh supplies are more widely available. Manar Mall and Al Hamra Mall are also popular shopping spots, while Al Rabea Dates Trading specialises in a wide selection of dates and date-based products. As seasonal stocks arrive in larger quantities, shoppers may also find that prices become more affordable.
Date Farms in Ras Al Khaimah
Date farms in Ras Al Khaimah are traditional agricultural hubs with grounds of palm trees. Visiting can offer a glimpse into Emirati heritage, local honey production, and fresh produce like mangoes and figs.
A notable harvest spot in Ras Al Khaimah is the expansive Dhaya Date Farm. Tourists often go on local eco-tours and visits to date farm plantations to sample local varieties and combine these with other cultural experiences. Visitors also get insights into traditional and modern irrigation methods.
Many local farms also have multiple crop setups, such as banana and mango trees.
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