Dates are native to Dubai land. If you want to experience Dubai culture, dates are a very important part of that. Abu Dhabi dates market is very much known for its vast variety of all kinds of dates at very reasonable rates. Here you will find dates and nuts that are very much part of the cultural and culinary heritage of the land.
What Is the Abu Dhabi Dates Market?
It is a totally famous marketplace located in the Mina Zayed Port vicinity of Abu Dhabi. If you are seeking fine dates and date products, this marketplace is a hub of dates of a wide variety. You will be amazed to see the variety.
Here you will find shops, stalls and markets filled with dates and date products like dates stuffed with nuts, chocolate dates, soaked in Syrups etc. They all differ in terms of taste, texture, size and even price.

Some very famous date varieties sold in this market are:
Medjool Dates:
Often called “kings of dates” these are one of the most famous and most loved dates worldwide. Known for their big size and caramel flavour, these soft and sweet dates are at the top of the list for sure. They are added in desserts and cuisines or you can simply eat them as it is as a snack. In this date market, you can get premium-quality Medjool Dates for Approximately AED 70–100 per kilogram.
Khalas Dates:
These are golden brown dates with balanced sweetness. You will find them commonly in all UAE households. They are typically not very expensive. One kg of Khalas Dates costs around 30-60 AED.
Sukkari Dates
These are also golden dates but are sweeter. These soft dates melt in the mouth and are ideal for snacks. You can get per kg of these dates in about 40–70 AED.
Deglet Noor:
These dates are not as creamy and soft but are used widely. They are slightly dry in texture and oval in shape. These dates are usually eaten as they are.
Ajwa Dates:
Ajwa dates are very famous. Usually, they are small, soft and have a balanced sweet taste. Due to their religious significance, Ajwa dates have a high demand.
Due to their high demand, Ajwa dates are around AED 80–150 per kg. People believe Ajwa to have medicinal properties and eat them to improve their heart health.
Lulu Dates:
They are soft, sweet, and dark in colour, and they are mostly enjoyed as snacks. You can get per kg of these dates for 12-40 AED.
Barhi Dates:
These dates are known for their unique flavour. To extract maximum flavour, these are typically eaten fresh. They melt in your mouth and have a crisp texture and a mild syrupy flavour especially when they are ripe.
Fard Dates:
Unlike soft and sweet dates, these dates are a bit hard and moderately sweet. They have a chewy structure and are very much affordable in price. You can get these inexpensive dates at 24-40 AED per kg.
Though these prices are a good estimate, it also depends on demand. Sometimes during the festive season or due to the high demand for certain dates, prices can go up.

Abu Dhabi Dates Market Vs. Other Markets
This market is better than other markets.
- Here you will find a large collection and a variety of dates. People can choose according to their tastes and budget preferences. The quality sold here is comparatively better and fresher than in other markets.
- You can buy dates from other shops and markets too, but this market offers a very authentic collection. Buying dates here is a wholesome experience. You can directly talk to the vendors and get to know about dates. They can also help you select based on your requirements and budget.
- As this is a market of dates, the prices are comparatively lower than solo vendors or regular shops. You can get very good price deals especially if you are buying in wholesale quantity.
- The market also offers various date products. You will find stuffed dates with nuts, chocolate-coated dates, different kinds of dates coated in syrup etc. It is usually hard to find such a vast variety under one roof.
What You Need to Know Before Visiting the Market?
Well, this market is a hub of dates. You will get any known dates here. Before Visiting the market, you must keep these things in mind.
- As an early bird gets the worm, visit the market in the morning when it is less crowded. Everyone is focused, fresh and has just started the day. You can get peace of mind and ample time to bargain.
- The market offers very competitive prices and vendors expect you to bargain. So feel free to negotiate as much as you can. Put your negotiation skills to best use and get the best deals on bulk buying.
- In this market, you can also try sample dates before actually buying them. Now this doesn’t happen in regular stores. You can try to pick the ones that you like the most.
- The Market also offers customized packaging options. If you are buying them as a gift, you can customise your gift boxes and if in bulk, you can also ask for large loose bulk packaging options.
- We suggest, carrying cash with you. Though many vendors will have card payment facilities, it can add some extra cost and may hurt your bargaining as well.
- You can go alone or with a tour guide. Most vendors know basic English so communication may not be a problem. You will enjoy your shopping experience.
- This market also has other amenities that can be a good attraction. There is a spice market and local shops which can add value to your shopping experience here. Also, there are food stalls to refresh you every now and then so you can roam freely and buy as many dates as you want.

Conclusion
Abu Dhabi dates market is one of the finest local markets with a large collection of dates. You can get reasonable prices and a huge variety to choose from. The premium quality dates are available at market-competitive prices. This place is a tourist attraction because it offers a cultural vibe and a whole experience. If you are a tourist, this market is your go-to destination for buying dates and experiencing the culture of the UAE.