Ramadan in UAE: Dates from Dh10 per kg enter markets; rates may rise after February 25
With Ramadan just weeks away, local markets across the UAE have begun stocking a wide variety of dates, with prices starting as low as Dh10 per kg. While prices are stable for now, vendors anticipate an increase as demand surges closer to the holy month.
At Dubai's Waterfront Market, vendors mentioned that rates remain unchanged but could rise after February 25.
'Currently, Mabroom dates are available from Dh10 to Dh30/kg, depending on the quality,' said Feroz Alam, a vendor at the market. 'Prices are reasonable now, but as Ramadan nears and demand spikes, they will likely go up.'
Similarly, Mejdool dates, a popular variety sourced from Palestine, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, are being sold for Dh20 to Dh40/kg. 'Majdool is always in high demand during Ramadan,' said Abdul Kareem, another vendor at the popular market. 'The current prices are stable, but we expect an increase as people start stocking up.'
According to vendors, other sought-after varieties include Safari dates, priced at Dh20/kg, and Amber dates, known for their large size, starting at Dh35/kg.
Sukkari dates, loved for their natural sweetness, are being sold between Dh15 and Dh25/kg, while Ajwa dates from Madinah, one of the most preferred varieties during Ramadan, range from Dh30 to Dh50/kg. 'Sagai dates, another favorite for large gatherings, are currently priced at Dh20/kg,' said Alam.
Among the fresh options available, Khallas dates, which are half-ripe and must be refrigerated, are also on the market. 'Emiratis particularly prefer Khallas during Ramadan. It is produced locally and holds significance in their tradition,' said Abdul Kareem. 'Many have already started purchasing in bulk to ensure they have enough for the holy month. The price of Khallas is currently at Dh25.'
Meanwhile, sellers at Al Jubail Market in Sharjah are preparing for the Ramadan rush. 'We expect new shipments to arrive soon, and with that, prices may rise significantly,' said Abu Backar, a vendor at the market. 'For those looking to buy in bulk, now is the best time before prices increase.'
A staple during Ramadan
Dates hold immense significance in Islam, particularly during Ramadan, as they are the first food Muslims eat to break their fast. The tradition of breaking the fast with dates follows the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The Prophet (PBUH) said: "When one of you breaks his fast, let him break it with dates, for they are blessed. If he does not have any, then let him break his fast with water, for it is pure."
This practice is followed by millions of Muslims worldwide, not only for its spiritual value but also for the numerous health benefits that dates provide. Rich in natural sugars, dates offer an instant energy boost after a long day of fasting. They are also packed with essential nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and fiber, which help replenish the body and aid digestion.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Al Etihad
Family business contributes Dh40 million in support of Life Endowment campaign
5 June 2025 13:06 ABU DHABI (WAM) A UAE family business has contributed Dh40 million to the Life Endowment campaign launched by the Endowments and Minors Funds Authority (Awqaf Abu Dhabi) under the slogan 'With You For Life.'This contribution is part of a community wide show of support to the campaign by individuals, institutions and business leaders, reflecting the culture of compassion and solidarity deeply rooted in UAE Life Endowment campaign aims to enhance the sustainability of healthcare services and provide long-term funding to treat patients with chronic illnesses and People of Determination, while supporting the healthcare system to strengthen its capacity to navigate future campaign further aims to maximise the returns of the endowment and direct them toward healthcare programmes that improve quality of life and help build a healthy, sustainable campaign also seeks to promote the concept of endowment as a development tool that supports social solidarity. It highlights the UAE's pioneering role in supporting charitable and humanitarian Life Endowment campaign in support of chronic disease patients has dedicated several channels to receive contributions from individuals and institutions:Digital donation platform by Awqaf Abu Dhabi: Bank transfers to the Campaign's account:(IBAN Number: AE930353417000004600004) at First Abu Dhabi to dedicated e& UAE numbers, as follows: SMS 'Life' to 3557 to donate Dh10, to 3556 to donate Dh50, to 3225 to donate Dh100 and to 3223 to donate to dedicated du numbers, as follows: SMS 'Life' to 3583 to donate Dh10, to 3585 to donate Dh50, to 3586 to donate Dh100 and to 3587 to donate Dh500.
Sharjah 24
4 days ago
- Sharjah 24
SEC approves unified guide for commercial signage in Sharjah
At the outset, the Council extended heartfelt congratulations to President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and to all the Rulers, citizens, residents, and Muslims on the occasion of the approaching Eid Al-Adha. New jobs and training support for citizens The Council praised the Ruler of Sharjah's recent approval of 400 new jobs for Emirati men and women in government departments across the emirate. It also commended the allocation of AED 55.8 million to the Sharjah Programme for Training and Qualifying Jobseekers — a move that underscores the Ruler's commitment to supporting citizens, boosting employment, and enhancing quality of life and professional development. Al Hamriyah Port fire response applauded The Council expressed its deep appreciation for the swift and professional response by national teams to the recent fire at Hamriyah Port. It noted the high level of readiness, coordination, and effective crisis management, particularly by Sharjah Police, the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior, National Guard, Civil Defence, emergency and crisis management bodies, and other local and federal authorities. Their efforts successfully prevented any loss of life. Unified signage guide approved A new unified guide for advertising and commercial signage was approved to harmonise business branding with the emirate's visual identity and aesthetic appeal. The guide provides design principles, permit processes, and regulatory standards for signage, aiming to create an attractive and well-organised urban environment. It covers categories such as shop signs, directional signage, and promotional boards, along with placement criteria and supervision protocols. Sharjah reinforces family and social values The Council reviewed several ongoing social initiatives aimed at strengthening Emirati families, nurturing intergenerational bonds, and upholding national, cultural, and religious identity. These efforts are part of Sharjah's broader social vision to preserve community values while supporting growth and cohesion within local households.
Campaign ME
5 days ago
- Campaign ME
Secrets of success for international brands in the Middle East
The Middle East has become a hot bed for businesses looking to expand into new markets and tap into a consumer set open to new brands and experiences. A young and vibrant population, riding a wave of positivity, alongside governments with money and intent to invest in building infrastructure and opportunities makes it an exciting market to move into. But as global brands turn their attention to this region they must do so with an awareness of cultural nuances. Their approach to marketing and brand building cannot be a carbon copy of other territories – brands must adapt their messaging, trajectory and ambition. Putting customers at the centre of activity is a golden rule for brands no matter where they operate. And so, applying that tenet to the Middle East means respecting local values and attitudes – and demonstrating that through the brand's storytelling. Beyond advertising There are lessons to be learned from some of the biggest global brands that have successfully moved into the region. Take Nike for example – the global sportswear brand has not only featured athletes from the region in its advertising but also considered them in its product line. Nike's marketing campaigns in the region often feature local athletes and stories, building aspirational narratives that people can easily connect with. But it went one step further with the launch of the Nike Pro Hijab in 2017, catering to Muslim female athletes. This was a major milestone as it anchored the brand with an inclusion message that resonated deeply across the region. It demonstrated a genuine understanding and respect for the local culture and empowered women within it. IKEA has similarly taken a thorough approach to adapting for the local market. The furniture brand can teach us all some things about how to craft a 'glocal' strategy. In particular, cultural sensitivity is a must. While its core product range is consistent across the globe, IKEA still makes subtle but significant adjustments to fulfill local needs. These include larger furniture pieces and tailored options to accommodate bigger living spaces and family gatherings. It also makes sure that the selection of materials can accommodate the region's hot and dry climate. And in a similar way to many luxury brands, IKEA creates specific collections and campaigns for Ramadan and Eid. Adapting products and services to the local customer base and using local talent in advertising are important but if this is as far as it goes the risk is that cultural sensibility is a veneer rather than a strategy. The best practice adopted by some brands it to establish significant bases in the region and become local employers. Pepsi has a long history of success in the Middle East, with high market penetration. This is due to strong local investments in facilities, employing thousands of locals and sourcing within the region. PepsiCo is perceived as a global brand that wants more than just to sell products; it wants to be an integral part of the local economy and therefore, the local community. It has also invested in local R&D centres to tailor its product portfolio to local consumer preferences. Mistakes – some brands have made a few Some brands have come unstuck because they have expanded into the region thinking like westerners. Campaigns must appeal to an audience which admires global brands but is also fiercely proud of its local heritage, culture and values. Public sentiment can quickly shift and with it, loyalty. So, any brand serious about making its mark must monitor public sentiment. Social media is a useful tool here. And interestingly, one of the most successful brands in the Middle East – TikTok – is tapping its largest audience, the youth. TikTok has made huge efforts to connect with local influencers. The platform understood the rise of local trends and the importance of fostering local communities. The introduction of TikTok Shops has been a game-changer, especially in the Gulf's booming e-commerce market. TikTok has shown that it cares and nurtures the creative community in the Gulf. It ran the Creator Hub programme to discover and support new creators. Course correction for brands Entering new regions is not easy and even the most successful of brands can make missteps. When that happens, change. Course correction is not an admission of failure; it's a sign of responsiveness and strategic depth. Coming into the region with an open mindset will go a long way. When brands reposition to better reflect local aspirations, values or lifestyles they are more likely to be welcomed. Whether introducing modest fashion lines, halal food certification or Arabic language packaging, modifying products will help make global brands feel part of the region. Global brands need to be on the ground, employing local people and working with local partners and influencers – and then they will find the right tone of voice and approach. In a region as nuanced as the Middle East, the most successful global brands are those that listen, learn and evolve. By Nancy Villanueva, CEO, Iberia and Middle East, Interbrand
