UAE Harvest Season Begins With 150 Date Varieties Across Country

The UAE's annual date harvest season has begun, with around 150 varieties grown across the country spanning early, mid and late-season harvesting periods.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment highlighted nine of the country's most widely cultivated and recognised varieties, including Fard, Barhi, Khalas, Sukkari, Khanezi, Sultana, Shishi, Zamli and Abu Maan. Khalas is known for its sweet flavour and golden-yellow colour, while Fard is particularly associated with Al Ain and is distinguished by its cylindrical shape and dark brown colour. Abu Maan is considered a premium-quality variety suited to dry climates, while Khanezi is widely cultivated in the Liwa Oasis and surrounding areas.

The ministry also highlighted Dabbas, which originates from the Liwa region of Al Dhafra and is among the country's most widespread varieties, alongside Lulu, recognised for its oval shape, small size and sweet taste. Other varieties grown across the UAE include Naghal, Hilali, Khasab, Hassawi and Nabtat Saif.

Alongside production, the ministry said it continues to protect palm trees from agricultural pests, particularly the red palm weevil, in cooperation with international organisations. Through its research stations, the ministry produces and distributes around 50 kilograms of pollen powder each year to support farmers and improve pollination.

The red palm weevil is an invasive transboundary pest that attacks more than 40 palm species, including date palms, and remains one of the biggest threats to palm cultivation across the UAE, the Gulf region and beyond.