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Top 33 Asian Dates

Last updated on June 15, 2026

Best Asian Dates

01

Bateel

4.8 ·
Bateel is a prestigious brand that has redefined the concept of dates, transforming them from a traditional Arabian fruit into a symbol of luxury and refined taste. Its origin lies in Al-Ghat, Saudi Arabia, where organically cultivated plantations with tens of thousands of palm trees are located. Founded in 1991, the brand opened its first boutique in Dubai, marking the beginning of its international expansion. Bateel combines traditional cultivation methods with modern processing and packaging techniques, creating products that unite natural authenticity with elegance. The dates are hand-picked, carefully selected, and packaged immediately after harvest to preserve their freshness and nutritional value. The most renowned varieties include Khidri, Medjool, and Segai, while the brand is particularly known for its filled dates. Its approach blends the cultural heritage of the Arabian Peninsula with contemporary principles of international gastronomy. In doing so, Bateel has become an ambassador of Arabian tradition in a modern, global context.
02

Yala Dates

4.7 ·
Yala Dates is a modern Saudi brand established in 2010, specializing in the cultivation, processing, and export of high-quality dates with a focus on sustainable and organic production. Its plantations are located in the Al-Qassim and Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah regions, renowned for their fertile soil and dry climate that provide ideal conditions for palm growth. The company follows a vertically integrated approach - from planting and harvesting to processing and packaging - ensuring complete quality control and product traceability. Yala offers a wide range of varieties, with particular emphasis on organically and naturally grown dates. Thanks to its innovative methods, Yala Dates has become one of Saudi Arabia’s leading date exporters to the global market. The brand’s combination of organic cultivation, refined flavor, and reliable quality makes it an ideal choice for delicatessens, restaurants, and premium retailers worldwide.
03

Nafea Farm

4.7 ·
Nafea Farm is a family-owned plantation located near Medina, Saudi Arabia, specializing in the cultivation of the organic Ajwa date - one of the most prized and authentic varieties on the Arabian Peninsula. Ajwa dates hold deep spiritual and cultural significance, originating from the region traditionally associated with Medina, and Nafea Farm continues this heritage through a modern yet entirely natural approach to production. The plantation lies on sandy, mineral-rich soil, where the microclimate provides ideal conditions for the ripening of sweet, aromatic fruits. The dates are hand-harvested at full maturity, then carefully dried and packed without thermal processing to preserve their natural texture and flavor. The farm’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that Ajwa dates are a “gift of the earth and faith”- with their strength deriving from the natural harmony of soil, sun, and the hands that nurture them. As a result, Nafea Farm today stands as a symbol of authenticity, quality, and the spiritual heritage of Medina, recognized both locally and internationally.
04

Jomara

4.6 ·
Jomara is a premium Saudi Arabian brand that combines the long-standing tradition of date cultivation with a modern approach to sustainable production and luxurious presentation. The dates are grown on organic plantations in an oasis near the Tuwayq Mountains, where the unique microclimate, fertile soil, and pure spring water create ideal conditions for palm growth. Each fruit is handpicked and carefully sorted to ensure exceptional freshness and natural sweetness. Jomara produces exclusively organic dates, free from pesticides and chemicals, with special attention devoted to preserving their nutritional value and authentic flavor. The product range includes a variety of types - from traditional plain dates to gourmet filled versions with pistachios, almonds, and candied orange peel. Through its sustainable and eco-conscious production methods, Jomara promotes the principles of healthy eating and natural sweetness. Their dates are rich in fiber, minerals, and antioxidants, making them one of the most valued natural superfoods. At the same time, the brand maintains a deep connection to the cultural heritage of Arabia, where dates hold both symbolic and everyday significance. By carefully blending tradition, quality, and innovation, Jomara has become a symbol of contemporary luxury rooted in authenticity.
05

Taiba Brothers Farms

4.6 ·
Taiba Brothers Farms is a family-owned farm based in Medina, Saudi Arabia, renowned for its long-standing tradition of cultivating palm trees and producing premium-quality dates. Its philosophy is built on heritage passed down through generations - from ancestors to descendants - guided by respect for nature and local traditions. The farm specializes in varieties native to the Medina region, most notably Ajwa and Safawi dates, prized for their rich flavor and high nutritional value. All fruits are grown naturally, without pesticides or chemical additives, and are hand-harvested at full ripeness to ensure maximum freshness and quality. Careful manual selection and minimal processing allow each date to retain its natural texture, aroma, and deep, glossy color. The climate of Medina, with abundant sunlight and mineral-rich soil, gives the fruit its pronounced sweetness and balanced minerality. The products are packaged in elegant, hygienically processed boxes designed for the premium market and export. Taiba Brothers Farms blends traditional farming methods with modern quality standards, creating an authentic brand that bridges spirituality, culture, and fine gastronomy. Their dates are now considered one of Medina’s most iconic products -— a true symbol of purity, tradition, and luxury.
06

Alia Al-Madinah Farms

4.5 ·
Alia Al-Madinah Farms is a renowned agricultural and tourist destination located in the heart of Medina, Saudi Arabia, combining traditional date cultivation with a modern approach to preserving cultural heritage. The farm spans vast areas covered with palm trees, situated near the Prophet’s Mosque, giving it a special symbolic and spiritual connection to the history of the region. At Alia Farm, the finest varieties of dates are cultivated, with Ajwa standing out as the signature type - known for its dark color, soft texture, and rich, complex flavor. The harvest is carried out by hand, following traditional methods and seasonal rhythms, while the fruits are carefully sorted and packaged to preserve their natural freshness. The farm is open to visitors, offering the experience of walking through dense palm groves and tasting fresh dates straight from the tree. This blend of agriculture and tourism makes it one of the few places where visitors can experience the authentic atmosphere of historical Medina. The land of the farm is considered part of historic waqf (endowment) estates, adding further cultural significance. The dates grown here are known for their rich taste that combines the sweetness of honey and caramel with subtle earthy tones. Thanks to Medina’s ideal climate and mineral-rich soil, the fruits achieve exceptional aromatic concentration. Alia Al-Madinah Farms thus stands as a symbol of authenticity, spiritual heritage, and sustainable cultivation. Its mission is to preserve the centuries-old tradition of date farming while presenting Medina as a center of genuine agricultural culture in Saudi Arabia.
07

Qinwan Dates

4.5 ·
Qinwan Dates is a premium brand specializing in carefully selected Medjool and Ajwa dates, known for their rich natural sweetness, soft-yet-dense texture, and characteristic caramel and honey notes. The company emphasizes purity and traditional handling, avoiding any artificial additives, colors, or preservatives to preserve the authentic flavor of each fruit. Their portfolio includes classic whole dates, filled varieties with walnuts, pistachios, cardamom, or saffron, as well as collections coated in dark chocolate. Presentation is a key part of the brand’s identity - refined gift boxes and wooden cases position Qinwan as a luxury choice suitable for gifting and special occasions. With multiple boutiques in Doha and partnerships with international retailers, including high-end department stores, the brand combines regional heritage with a modern premium aesthetic, making it one of the most recognized date producers in the Gulf region.
08

Castle Farms

4.5 ·
Castle Farms is a Saudi producer of premium dates with decades of cultivation tradition in the Medina region, one of the most fertile areas for date production in Saudi Arabia. The plantations cover approximately two million square meters and include more than 44,000 palm trees, ensuring an annual yield of around 2,500 tons of dates, including 250 tons of organically certified fruit. The company employs modern methods of organic and sustainable agriculture, allowing for the preservation of soil microbiological richness and the natural balance of the ecosystem. Castle Farms’ assortment includes some of the most renowned Saudi varieties, such as Ajwa, Sukkary, Safawi, Khudari, and Segai, all distinguished by their diverse flavors and textures. Through the combination of natural purity, sustainability, and a refined production approach, Castle Farms has established itself as one of the leading date producers, successfully bridging the authentic heritage of Arabia with the demands of the modern global market.
09

Nabtati

4.5 ·
Nabtati is a Saudi brand that originates from the family-owned Al Mutlaq Farms, established in 1959 in the Al-Qassim region, renowned for its exceptional conditions for date cultivation. The name “Nabtati” meaning “my plant” in Arabic, symbolizes a deep connection with nature and a commitment to sustainable agriculture. The brand specializes in the production of the Sukkari variety - one of the most renowned Saudi dates, distinguished by its golden-brown color, conical shape, and caramel-honey flavor. On its plantations in Al-Qassim, Nabtati applies organic and modern farming practices that achieve an ideal balance between traditional methods and contemporary quality standards. Each fruit is handpicked and carefully sorted to preserve its freshness, aroma, and nutritional value. Through its heritage, transparency, and refined approach, Nabtati has become a distinguished name among producers who successfully combine natural purity, sustainability, and luxury in a single product.
10

Aldabta Farm

4.4 ·
Aldabta Farm is a historic farm located in Medina, Saudi Arabia, renowned for its centuries-old tradition of palm cultivation and premium date production. Considered one of the oldest active farms in the region, its name is closely associated with authenticity and the agricultural heritage of Medina. Across its vast groves, the most famous date varieties are cultivated - with Ajwa holding a special place as the symbol of Medina and a synonym for spirituality, quality, and purity. The fruits are grown using natural methods, without pesticides or artificial additives, ensuring the preservation of their original flavor and nutritional value. Harvesting is done by hand, and each date is carefully sorted and prepared for the premium market. Dates from this farm are distinguished by their deep dark color, soft texture, and rich flavor with notes of honey, caramel, and gentle minerality. Thanks to Medina’s ideal climate - abundant sunshine, dry air, and mineral-rich soil - the fruits develop an exceptional aromatic concentration. Aldabta Farm combines traditional cultivation techniques with modern standards of quality and hygiene, producing dates that meet the expectations of the most demanding markets. Today, Aldabta Farm stands as a symbol of history, quality, and natural luxury, making Medina one of the world’s most important centers for date production.

Best Asian Dates Types

01

Tamr al-ʿajwa (Ajwa dates)

4.1 ·

Ajwa is a famous date variety originating from Medina, Saudi Arabia. These dates are dark brown to almost black in color. The texture is slightly dry, soft, and chewy, while the flavors are prune-like and sweet with hints of cinnamon, caramel, and honey. The dates are packed with protein, dietary fibre, healthy fats, and vitamins such as A, B6, C, E, and K. During and after pregnancy, the consumption of ajwa dates improves blood circulation for mothers and babies. These dates are also known as holy dates and they hold a special place in Islamic tradition.

02

Tamr al-khudri (Khudri dates)

4 ·

Khudry or khudri is a traditional date variety hailing from Saudi Arabia. These dates are less expensive than most other varieties and they have a dark brown color and a cylindrical shape with wrinkled skin. The size ranges from medium to large. The texture is chewy (but not dry), while the flavor is moderately sweet with hints of caramel. The dates are eaten as they are or stuffed with walnuts, almonds, or cream. They're also packed with fiber, magnesium, potassium, and a load of other vitamins and minerals. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or black coffee.

03

Khormâ-ye mozâfati (Mazafati dates)

3.9 ·

Mazafati dates are a soft, dark variety of dates that come from Bam, a city in the Kerman Province of southeastern Iran. Known for their moist texture and rich, caramel-like sweetness, Mazafati dates have become one of Iran’s most famous agricultural exports. Their cultivation in the Bam region dates back hundreds of years, favored by the area's hot, dry climate and abundant underground water sources that support date palm groves even in arid surroundings. Historical accounts and local records suggest that date palms have been grown in this region for millennia, playing a role in sustaining communities both nutritionally and economically. Harvesting Mazafati dates typically begins in late summer and can extend into early autumn. Unlike many other varieties that are fully dried before packing, Mazafati dates are picked when they are fully ripe and retain a high moisture content. After harvesting, they are carefully sorted by size and quality. Because of their soft flesh, they are often stored in cool conditions to preserve freshness and prevent fermentation. The skin is glossy and thin, covering a dense, almost syrupy interior with a single pit inside. Mazafati dates are enjoyed as a snack on their own or paired with nuts like walnuts or almonds. They are also used in desserts, blended into smoothies, or served alongside cheese and bread. In Iran, they are a popular component of breakfast and are frequently offered to guests with tea. Their natural sweetness means they require no added sugar, making them a preferred ingredient for healthier confections. Beyond Iran, Mazafati dates have gained recognition in international markets for their quality and distinctive softness compared to drier date varieties. Their cultivation supports many farming families in the Bam region and contributes significantly to local trade. Today, they are exported worldwide and valued not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits, including fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, making them a respected part of Iranian culinary heritage and an appreciated delicacy far beyond the region.

04

Tamr barḥi (Barhi dates)

3.6 ·

Barhi dates are a type of date fruit from Iraq that is small, round to oval, with curved and blunt edges, often with a stem still attached. They are considered one of the sweetest types of dates and can be consumed in all stages of ripeness: yellow and semi-ripe or khalal, fully ripe or rutab, and dried, wrinkled, and dark brown or tamr. The semi-ripe barhi dates are sweet, slightly astringent, and crisp. They are eaten fresh and are available only for a few weeks in August and September in markets in select dry and hot climates. As barhi dates mature and turn amber and brown, they become more dry, sticky, and creamy and now classify as rutab and tamr. They are used to prepare jams, spreads, pastes, shakes, and desserts. The name comes from the Arab word barh, which translates to hot wind, aptly chosen since hot winds that blow through Basra, Iraq, help dates to ripen.

Best producers
05

Khormâ-ye piyârom (Piarom dates)

3.6 ·

Piarom dates are a variety of premium Iranian dates cultivated mainly in the southern province of Hormozgan, particularly around the Hajjiabad area. Recognized for their slender, elongated shape and deep brown to almost black skin, Piarom dates are considered among the most sought-after types of dates grown in Iran and are valued for their rich taste and chewy texture. Their cultivation benefits from the dry, hot climate of the region, which contributes to their low moisture content and natural sweetness. The history of Piarom dates is linked closely with Iran’s long tradition of date cultivation, which stretches back thousands of years. Dates have been an integral crop in Persian agriculture and cuisine, serving as an important source of sustenance and trade. While many varieties are produced across the country, Piarom dates began to gain a distinct reputation over the past century as local farmers developed better techniques for harvesting and drying them carefully to maintain their quality. Today, they are considered a premium export product and often marketed as “chocolate dates” because of their soft flesh and rich flavor. Piarom dates are typically harvested by hand in late summer to early autumn when the fruit reaches full ripeness. The dates are then cleaned and graded to remove debris and select the highest quality examples. Because of their low moisture content, Piarom dates store well without requiring artificial preservatives, making them popular with consumers looking for minimally processed dried fruit. Before serving, they are often gently rinsed or wiped, though they can be eaten straight from the package. They are commonly enjoyed on their own as a snack, paired with nuts, or used in desserts and sweet preparations where their natural sweetness eliminates the need for added sugar. Beyond their culinary uses, Piarom dates are recognized for their nutritional profile, offering fiber, potassium, and natural sugars. In Iran, they are served alongside tea, featured on breakfast tables, or presented to guests as a gesture of hospitality. Their popularity has spread to international markets where they are sold as a specialty product appreciated for both flavor and visual appeal.

06

Tamr al-safawi (Safawi dates)

3.4 ·

Safawi is a traditional Arabian date variety originating from the Al-Madina region. These wrinkly dates have a deep black color and they're medium to large in size. The texture is soft, moist, and chewy, while the flavor is sweet. The safawi palm tree is known for its high productivity, so safawi dates are more commercially available than most other varieties (year-round).

07

Tamr al-sukkary (Sukkary dates)

3.4 ·

Sukkary is a traditional Arabian date variety originating from the Al Qassim area. These are among the sweetest and softest variety of dates, often described as melt-in-the-mouth soft dates. Their color is golden, while the flavor is sweet and juicy. When dried, the dates become chewy and even sweeter, and there is some crunchiness near the stem. Sukkary dates are packed with energy, natural sugars, fiber, minerals, and vitamins. They're often referred to as royal dates due to their natural sweetness and golden color. Sukkary dates can be made into an interesting dessert when they're stuffed with cashews and sweet cream.

08

Khormâ-ye rabbi (Rabbi dates)

3.4 ·

Rabbi dates are a variety of Iranian dates primarily cultivated in the southern province of Sistan and Baluchestan, especially around the city of Iranshahr. They are valued for their semi-dry texture, elongated shape, and deep reddish-brown color, which distinguish them from other Iranian date cultivars. Rabbi dates have been grown for generations in this arid region, where the climate and soil create optimal conditions for producing dates with high natural sugar content and a balanced flavor profile. Historical accounts suggest that date palms have been an essential agricultural resource in Iran for thousands of years, and over time, local growers selected and propagated specific cultivars like Rabbi for their keeping qualities and taste. The process of cultivating Rabbi dates begins with careful irrigation and maintenance of the palm groves during the long hot summers, followed by harvesting in late summer to early autumn. Once picked, the dates are cleaned, sorted by size and quality, and sometimes lightly sun-dried to enhance their shelf stability without the need for preservatives. Unlike softer varieties such as Mazafati, Rabbi dates have a firmer flesh that makes them suitable for storage and transport, and they often appear in export markets. They are typically enjoyed as a snack on their own, served alongside tea, or used in Iranian desserts, confections, and festive platters. Rabbi dates stand out not only for their appearance and texture but also for their versatility in both sweet and savory applications. In Iran, they are often included in New Year’s Nowruz spreads and offered to guests as a gesture of hospitality. Markets in Iranshahr and surrounding regions display large piles of Rabbi dates each harvest season, where buyers look for uniform shape and a shiny skin that indicates freshness. Today, they remain a notable export product and a staple in many Iranian households, appreciated both for everyday enjoyment and as part of cultural celebrations.

09

Tamr al-zahidi (Zahidi dates)

3.2 ·

Zahidi dates are a variety of dates originating from Iraq, known for their firm texture and golden-brown color. Zahidi dates have a moderately sweet flavor that distinguishes them from the softer and sweeter varieties like Medjool. The cultivation of Zahidi dates can be traced back centuries, as date palms have long been a staple crop in arid and semi-arid regions where other fruits struggle to grow. Zahidi palms are known for their high yield and resilience, producing dates that are less sticky and easier to handle, making them popular in markets throughout the Middle East and beyond. This durability and balanced sweetness have made Zahidi dates a preferred choice for many consumers who seek a date that offers both flavor and convenience. Zahidi dates are harvested when fully ripe but before they become overly soft, which allows them to retain their firm texture. They can be eaten fresh or dried, with drying intensifying their flavor and extending their shelf life. In culinary practice, Zahidi dates are often used in baking, paired with nuts, or incorporated into savory dishes to add a subtle sweetness. They also serve as a common accompaniment during festive occasions and religious observances, where dates hold symbolic significance. Consuming Zahidi dates is widespread across the regions where they are grown, often enjoyed as a wholesome snack or part of a balanced diet. Their nutritional profile includes fiber, essential minerals, and natural sugars, making them a healthy energy source. Zahidi dates also find their way into international markets, where they are valued by consumers looking for quality dates with a distinctive taste and texture.

10

Tamr al-suqai‘ (Sagai dates)

3.1 ·

Sagai is a traditional date variety originating from the Arabian Peninsula and it's especially popular in Saudi Arabia. These dates are famous for their two-toned color – at the tip, they are golden and dry, while the rest of the body is brown and soft. The flavor is mildly sweet, while the unique texture is both crunchy and soft. The demand for these dates is especially high during Ramadan and Eid. The consumption of sagai dates helps in relieving constipation and it's beneficial to curing hangovers and overcoming sexual disorders.

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About this ranking

TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 33 Asian Dates” list until June 15, 2026, 260 ratings were recorded, of which 119 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.

The initial list of top producers was compiled based on available reviews, awards, local recommendations, media and blog coverage, and consumer reviews. The list will be updated with ratings from TasteAtlas local ambassadors and TasteAtlas users.

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