Jeddah, 29 Sha'ban 1447 AH (17 February 2026)

Jeddah's date markets are seeing notable commercial activity and growing demand from citizens and residents as the holy month of Ramadan approaches, with vendors preparing early to offer a variety of the finest dates from across the Kingdom's regions, a staple of the Ramadan iftar table.

In a tour of a number of markets and date shops, the Saudi Press Agency observed brisk buying and wide availability of every variety, with shops meeting shoppers' needs through display areas for packs of multiple sizes, from small and medium packs to large cartons.

Workers at the Al Jamea date market said supplies are plentiful to meet rising demand as the holy month nears, especially for the varieties most in demand in the Ramadan season, led by Ajwa, Sukkari, Khalas and Ruthana rutab, along with other varieties shoppers choose according to their preferences.

The market reflects the diversity of consumer tastes. Some prefer soft or pressed Sukkari, while others opt for twisted Sukkari or varieties such as Khalas and Safri grown on the farms of Qassim, Al-Ahsa, Al Kharj and Bisha, enriching buyers' choices and strengthening market competition.

The relevant authorities are accompanying the seasonal activity with inspection rounds of commercial establishments and warehouses ahead of Ramadan to ensure the availability of staple and Ramadan goods and monitor stock levels, along with continuous inspection campaigns to verify outlets' compliance with consumer protection regulations and monitor prices, offers and discounts, strengthening market stability and protecting consumers' rights during the Ramadan season.

At a Glance

  • Plentiful supplies of date varieties in Jeddah
  • Notable demand as Ramadan approaches
  • A range of pack sizes to meet families' needs
  • Inspection rounds to control prices and ensure stock