Latest news with #Khneizi
Qatar Tribune
2 days ago
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
10th Local Dates Festival concludes with over 90,000 visitors
The 10th Local Dates Festival, organised by the Ministry of Municipality in collaboration with Souq Waqif Management, concluded its activities after running from July 24 to August 7. The event drew remarkable public interest, attracting more than 90,600 visitors. A total of 114 local farms from across the country participated in the festival, which featured interactive competitions for both visitors and farmers, creating a lively and competitive atmosphere. According to a statement from the Ministry of Municipality, total sales of dates reached 170,403 kilograms. The top-selling variety was Khalas, with 75,658 kilograms sold, followed by Shishi (33,057 kg), Khneizi (31,232 kg), and Barhi (18,772 kg). Additionally, 12,684 kilograms of other date varieties and 2,057 kilograms of fruits were sold. Organizers praised the festival's success, highlighting its role in promoting local products, encouraging palm cultivation, and improving production quality. They also emphasized its contribution to agricultural sustainability, food security, and the preservation of national agricultural heritage. The festival is considered a vital annual platform that energizes the agricultural sector and promotes sustainable consumption culture in the country.
Sharjah 24
30-06-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
Dibba Al Hisn Municipality launches 'Jood Al Saaf' initiative
A Tradition Aligned with the Date Season The 'Jood Al Saaf' initiative comes in conjunction with the start of the date season, which is warmly anticipated by UAE citizens as it signals the arrival of summer. For many, especially senior citizens, this season evokes memories and stories from a past deeply intertwined with the land and its traditions. Community Appreciation and Cultural Identity The initiative was met with great appreciation from local dignitaries and heads of government departments and institutions in the city. It reinforces Emirati cultural identity, as dates are considered an essential part of the UAE's agricultural heritage. Diverse Date Varieties and Productive Palm Groves Dibba Al Hisn Municipality oversees approximately 800 palm trees spread across various parts of the city. This season, the harvest included abundant yields from over five different varieties of rutab, most notably Naghal and Khneizi. Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security Khadija Najib, Director of the Agriculture Department at the municipality, stated: 'This diversity in harvest significantly contributes to local self-sufficiency in dates during the season. The annual expansion of palm cultivation is a key pillar of the city's agricultural sustainability plans, especially in the face of environmental challenges and climate change. Palm trees help maintain ecological balance, preserve soil, and lower temperatures in agricultural zones, thereby enhancing the city's resilience and supporting long-term food security.' Advanced Agricultural Practices She added that the Agriculture Department has implemented advanced systems to care for the palm trees, including scheduled fertilisation, irrigation, and environmental analysis programmes in cooperation with specialized entities. Scientific studies have been conducted to assess soil and water quality, and crop testing ensures safety and top-tier quality. These integrated scientific plans aim to optimise agricultural returns and ensure sustainable growth in the sector. Strengthening Community Bonds and Heritage His Excellency Talib Abdullah Al Yahyai, Director of Dibba Al Hisn Municipality, emphasised the municipality's commitment to organising this initiative annually, saying: 'This initiative enhances social connection in the city and reinforces the values and traditions passed down from our ancestors. It also helps raise awareness about the importance of agricultural heritage, as the date season symbolises blessing and Emirati generosity.' Successful Season Backed by Agricultural Efforts Al Yahyai noted that this year's date season saw plentiful yields thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Agriculture Department in caring for palm trees and green spaces throughout the city. These efforts have contributed to the success of agricultural plans and resulted in a productive season. Embracing Tradition Across Generations He also pointed out that 'Jood Al Saaf' received a warm response from the residents of the city due to its strong ties to local heritage and folklore, which continue to be passed down through generations. Welcoming the summer season with joy and the symbolism it carries remains a cherished Emirati custom. A Strategic Sector in National Food Security The palm cultivation sector in the UAE is considered a vital component of the country's food security system. The UAE has given this sector great importance through initiatives and programmes aimed at protecting palm trees from harmful pests and adopting modern techniques to improve the quality and variety of dates, with the ultimate goal of producing top-grade fruits.
