Al Dhaid Date Festival 2025 opens with strong turnout, heritage showcases
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The 9th edition of the Al Dhaid Date Festival opened to an energetic start on Thursday at Expo Al Dhaid, bringing together top date producers, farmers, and agricultural experts from across the UAE. Organised by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), the five-day event runs until July 27 and showcases the country’s rich date heritage while promoting innovation in sustainable farming.
The opening ceremony drew a high-level presence, including Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI; Mohammed Saeed Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) and several municipal leaders and government officials. Following the inauguration, dignitaries toured the venue, engaging with farmers and exhibitors displaying premium date varieties and cultivation techniques.
This year’s theme blends heritage and innovation, with cultural performances, traditional displays, and live competitions capturing the spirit of Emirati palm farming. A seminar led by agricultural experts highlighted the evolution of date cultivation in Sharjah, balancing age-old practices with modern advancements aimed at improving sustainability and productivity.
Speaking at the event, SCCI Chairman Al Owais noted the festival’s growing role in the agricultural sector. He said, “Over the past nine editions, this festival has become a vital platform for economic support, cultural celebration, and knowledge exchange among farmers".
Echoing this, MOCCAE’s Mohammed Al Nuaimi said the festival contributes directly to the UAE’s food security goals by promoting climate-smart agriculture and empowering farmers with innovation.
The 2025 edition features an expanded lineup of competitions, including date varieties like Khneizi, Khalas and Shishi. Two elite categories, ‘General Al Dhaid Elite Dates’ and ‘Special Al Dhaid Elite Dates’, have been introduced exclusively for farmers from the Northern Emirates. Dedicated contests for women and children, as well as categories for red figs and local lemons, reflect the festival’s inclusive community focus.
Entries are judged under strict standards such as all produce must be defect-free, grown in 2025 and harvested from the participant’s own farm. This aligns with the newly launched “Busharat Al-Qeith” initiative, aimed at ensuring quality and authenticity.
Beyond competitions, the festival serves as a launchpad for home-based businesses, especially women-led ventures rooted in traditional Emirati heritage. A series of workshops and seminars throughout the event offers training on best practices and new agricultural technologies.
