Dubai: How dates worth millions of dirhams pass through this port to iftar tables around the world
When families around the world break their fast during Ramadan, there is a high probability that the dates on their iftar table passed through Dubai's Jebel Ali port. With its technology, infrastructure and central location, the UAE has emerged as a hub for date export.
In 2023, the country exported the equivalent to approximately Dh1.19 billion worth of dates, making it the world's second-largest exporter. The Jebel Ali port handles 60 percent of the country's date trade — with more than 10 major exporters using the facility to consolidate dates from the GCC and Levant for markets in Asia and East Africa.
Every year, demand for dates surges ahead of the holy month, from across North Africa and Europe to Asia. Figures show that the demand for dates is seasonal, with the export figures from the UAE in December 2024 being 9 times higher than that of July 2024. The export volume has remained strong in the months leading up to Ramadan.
Consumer preferences
According to some reports, consumers — especially in the Western markets — are incerasingly looking for organically and ethically sourced varieties of dates. Meanwhile, in Asia, bulk shipments remain the norm whereas in the GCC, high-quality, traditionally cultivated dates are the top priority for buyers.
In the UAE, varieties like Khalas, with its chewy caramel flavor; Barhi which can be consumed fresh or dried and Khenaizi, with its firm texture, continue to be popular.
A market report found that health-conscious customers are turning to dates as a healthy alternative to sugary treats. Packed with essential fibers, vitamins, and minerals, dates are becoming increasingly popular as a snack. Products made with date sugar are also gaining popularity.
Exporters
According to figures, the major exporters of dates include UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Egypt, Algeria, Iran and Tunisia in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region. Other major producers of dates include Sindh and Balochistan in Pakistan and California in USA, which mainly produces Medjool dates.
The global dates market, worth $31 billion in 2024, is set to hit $49 billion by 2032. The Middle East and Africa lead the trade with an 85% share, while the US is seeing rapid growth, driven by a shift toward healthier eating habits.
Role of Dubai
There are several reasons why Dubai has emerged as such an important hub for date export. Moving perishables requires careful planning. Jebel Ali Port plays a crucial role with its cold storage facilities and streamlined customs processes, ensuring dates remain fresh and reach global markets on time, especially during peak seasons.
The Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) provides a strategic base for processing, packaging, and export operations. DP World's integrated land and sea transport solutions have enhanced supply chain efficiency by 20 percent, with the company's logistics arm moving large-scale shipments of dates across six months from September, leading up to Ramadan.
The facility is also fully equipped to deal with future challenges. Automation in handling perishables, greater investments in cold storage, and the adoption of eco-friendly packaging will help meet global environmental goals and drive efficiency.
As demand continues to rise, Dubai remains a vital link in this centuries-old trade, connecting producers to consumers worldwide.
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