The date, the fruit of the date palm, is valued for its natural sweetness as well as its many health benefits, such as its high fiber, vitamin, and mineral content.
Dates are recognized not only for their nutritional virtues but also for the diversity of their varieties, each adapted to its climate and terroir.
Here is an updated overview of the top date-producing countries in 2024, enriched with the most popular varieties in each country. These countries continue to dominate the global market, taking advantage of their climates that are ideal for growing this precious fruit.
Top 10 date-producing countries and their flagship varieties
Egypt
Production: 1,733,432 tons.
Flagship variety: The โMedjoolโ variety is particularly appreciated for its generous size and soft texture.
Saudi Arabia
Production: 1,610,731 tons.
Flagship variety: โAjwaโ, renowned for its fine texture and spiritual connotations, is particularly prized.
Algeria
Production: 1,247,404 tons.
Flagship variety: โDeglet Noorโ, known for its golden transparency and sweet taste, dominates the market.
Iran
Production: 1,030,460 tons.
Flagship variety: โMazafatiโ, appreciated for its rich flavor and creamy texture, is widely consumed both locally and for export.
Pakistan
Production: 732,936 tonnes.
Flagship variety: โAseelโ is famous for its sweetness and storage resistance, making this variety ideal for export.
Iraq
Production: 715,293 tonnes.
Flagship variety: โZahidiโ, known for its firm consistency and long durability, is highly regarded.
Sudan
Production: 442,667 tons.
Flagship variety: โBarakawiโ, appreciated for its sweet taste and size, is mainly exported.
United Arab Emirates
Production: 397,329 tons.
Flagship variety: โKhalasโ, famous for its distinct aroma and melting texture.
Tunisia
Production: 390,000 tons.
Flagship variety: โDeglet Noorโ continues to be the most exported variety, symbolizing Tunisian superior quality.
Oman
Production: 376,980 tonnes.
Flagship variety: โKhalasโ is also highly regarded here for its exceptional taste and soft texture.