The Thriving Date Market in Saudi Arabia: Expert Insights from an Industry Leader
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With over 400,000 metric tons of dates and date derivatives exported in 2022, Saudi Arabia became recognized as the global leader in date exports. But what drives this success, and what does the future hold for the Saudi date industry? In this latest Infoquest expert-driven thought leadership article, we explore the key factors fueling growth in the date market in Saudi Arabia, with exclusive insights from Saeed Ahmed El-Amayreh, Operations Manager at Mohamadia Dates Company, who offers his perspective on best practices, challenges, and strategies for future success. 

Saudi Arabia’s Leadership in the Date Market

Saudi Arabia’s position as the world’s leading exporter of dates is not a simple matter of luck; it is the result of decades of careful planning, investing, and strategic decision making. As Saeed explains, the Kingdom’s success is grounded in its commitment to quality, innovation, and government support.

“Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the date industry is not just about exporting high volumes; it’s about setting global standards for quality and ensuring that our products meet the diverse demands of international markets,” he shares. “Our date varieties are renowned for their exceptional taste, texture, and nutritional value. And this has been backed by significant investments in technology, agricultural research, and trade promotion.”

As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is positioning its agricultural sector—including dates—at the forefront of the nation’s economic diversification efforts. Government bodies such as the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA) and the National Center for Palms and Dates (NCPD) are leading the charge to improve production techniques and expand export opportunities.

A Rich and Diverse Portfolio of Dates in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is home to more than 300 different varieties of dates, each with unique characteristics and flavor profiles. This diversity allows the country to cater to a wide range of international tastes and preferences, further solidifying its status as the leading exporter in the global market.

Saeed, as an expert part of the Infoquest GCC network, emphasizes the importance of variety in maintaining Saudi Arabia’s competitive edge. “The diversity in date varieties is a key factor in our global success,” he says. “From the popular Medjool, Ajwa, or Sukkary dates to unique varieties like Wanana or Albakaiah Saudi Arabia’s diverse portfolio caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Our ability to maintain a consistent high standard of quality across all these varieties sets us apart from other producers.”

Beyond fresh dates, Saudi producers have also embraced value-added products such as date syrup, date paste, and packaged dates, creating new revenue streams and offering consumers innovative ways to enjoy dates. “Value-added products are a growing segment for us,” Saeed notes. “It’s not just about selling dates, but about providing customers with options that suit modern lifestyles—whether through packaged dates, health-focused products, or organic options.”

Government Support: A Catalyst for Growth in the Date Market

The government of Saudi Arabia has been a key player in driving the growth of the date market. Through initiatives such as the Saudi Exports Development Authority (SEDA), which promotes dates at international events like Gulfood in Dubai and SIAL in Paris, and the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) investments in agriculture, the government has created an environment ripe for growth and innovation.

“Government initiatives are crucial for the continued success of the date industry,” says Saeed. “The support we receive—whether through trade promotions or direct investment in infrastructure—has been instrumental in expanding our reach in global markets. Vision 2030, with its focus on agricultural sustainability and diversification, has opened up many new opportunities for Saudi date producers.”

Additionally, the NCPD has been pivotal in increasing the number of date palms across the Kingdom, focusing on the cultivation of high-value date varieties that are in demand in international markets. As an expert in the dates market, Saeed points out that “The push for higher-value varieties, combined with the expansion of green areas dedicated to date palms, will have a direct impact on the Kingdom’s ability to meet growing global demand.”

Sustainability: A Key to the Date Industry’s Future

Sustainability is one of the most pressing concerns within the date industry. Saeed is quick to highlight that improving sustainability practices is essential not only for the industry’s future but also for meeting the expectations of today’s environmentally conscious consumers.

“The industry must evolve to become more sustainable, and that’s already happening. Mechanization is helping improve efficiency, reduce costs, and mitigate the environmental impact of traditional farming methods,” he explains. “The COVID-19 pandemic forced many manufacturers to rethink their operations, pushing them towards more automated systems that boost production and reduce waste.”

But sustainability doesn’t stop at production. He further stresses that the entire value chain—from packaging to logistics—needs to embrace eco-friendly practices. “We are also innovating in packaging solutions that are both practical and environmentally friendly,” he adds. “Consumers want products that align with their values, and as an industry, we need to adapt to this shift toward sustainability.”

Challenges and Opportunities for Other Date-Producing Countries

Saudi Arabia’s dominance in the date market is not easily replicated, but there are lessons to be learned from the Kingdom’s success. When asked what other date-producing countries could do to boost their production, Saeed offers practical advice.

“Improving agricultural techniques and embracing commercial investment are key to increasing both quantity and economic value,” he notes. “The UAE has done well in focusing on high-value varieties, and other countries looking to expand should consider similar strategies. It’s also important to adopt modern packaging methods that appeal to international markets and enhance the perceived value of the product.”

For countries interested in breaking into the international date trade, Saeed emphasizes the importance of consistency in quality and investment in brand-building. “There are great opportunities for countries with the right resources to enter the global market, but they need to understand that consistency and quality are paramount,” he says. “A strong brand identity, backed by reliable supply chains and excellent customer service, can set any producer apart from the competition.”

The Road Ahead for the Date Market: Global Demand and Local Opportunities

The future of the Saudi date market looks promising, with expanding global demand and continuous improvements in production methods. The growing awareness of dates as a healthy and natural snack, as well as their cultural significance in many regions, positions the Saudi date industry for sustained success.

“As global demand for healthy, natural products increases, dates are perfectly positioned to benefit,” says Saeed. “The nutritional value of dates, combined with their rich cultural history, makes them a popular choice for consumers looking for healthier snack options.”

For business professionals in the GCC region, this presents ample opportunities. From investing in date cultivation and processing to developing innovative value-added products, the potential for growth in this sector is vast. Saeed’s advice is clear: “To capitalize on the opportunities in the date industry, businesses must stay informed, engage with expert networks, and be willing to invest in innovation and sustainability.”

What is next for the future of the Saudi Arabian and GCC dates market?

Saudi Arabia’s date market is a dynamic and evolving sector, underpinned by government support, high-quality production, and a commitment to sustainability. As the Kingdom continues to dominate global date exports, there are significant opportunities for businesses in the GCC region to engage with this lucrative market. By leveraging expert insights, staying updated on market trends, and embracing new technologies, companies can navigate this thriving industry and reap the benefits of its growth.

About Saeed Ahmed El-Amayreh – a subject matter expert

Saeed is a seasoned Operations and Technical Manager with extensive experience in the dates and food industry. His deep understanding of market trends, production processes, and consumer preferences has helped him lead successful product innovations and market expansions. Saeed’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence positions him as a subject matter expert in the evolving date market.