Qatar’s climate is ideal for producing one of the most amazing and healthy nutrition. Qatar’s dates are famous all around the world and are considered one of the most exported products of this country. Dates that are produced in Qatar have a great quality and they are the main item used by people. They have many healthy benefits and are very recommended for daily diet.
In this article, we will learn more about dates, Qatar’s national fruit.
What is the National Fruit of Qatar?
Known for their exceptional taste and high quality, Qatar’s national fruit, dates, have become a popular nutrition worldwide. Qatar’s hot weather is one of the reasons that these dates grow and are one of the best types of dates across the Middle East.
Palm trees are also the oldest trees that are deeply rooted in the Qatari people’s culture and history, and over the years, dates have become a national symbol for Qatari people.
You can easily find palm trees across Qatar, and they are part of the country’s identity since there are a lot of palm trees in the vast area of this small country.
How Do Dates Grow in Qatar?
Dates that grow in Qatar have an interesting process that some consider a specialized cultivation process. The ideal climate of Qatar and its soil condition for growing Palm trees make this country the top source of producing dates.
Date Palms are usually grown in oases and interestingly, Qatar is home to various date cultivars known as Khalas, Shishi, and Barhi, each one of them having a unique characteristic to other ones.
Moreover, the final process, or the harvesting process, usually happens between July and October, when the dates are fully grown and ready to be harvested.
Dates, Qatar’s National Fruit Price
Qatar’s National Fruit price depends on their quality and origins. Qatar, being one of the exporters of this nutrition item, has a diverse type of dates and each one differs in terms of price.
Nevertheless, the price of dates (the national fruit of Qatar) inside the country is very reasonable and economical, making it ideal to include it in the diet routine. Of course, it is very important to know where to buy dates in Qatar for a reasonable price.
Dates, Symbol of Qatar
Being a staple food in the diet of Qatari people and being an ideal location for palm trees, dates have found their way into the symbolism of Qatar.
Dates have been an integral part of Qatari people’s culture, and there are also important pieces of evidence that cultivation in this region goes back thousands of years.
Over time, with major exports to other countries, dates became a great contributor to both agricultural economy and self-sufficiency. Today, Qatari dates are a national pride, a reflection of the Arab people’s rich culture, and a legacy from their older generations.
Famous Dates of Qatar
The famous dates of Qatar include a variety of dates that are characterized and different from one another. This list includes Khalas, Shishi, Barhi, Um Al Soboa, and Lulu. The most famous date in Qatar is Khalas, known as the crown jewel of Qatari dates.
They usually have a large size and soft texture, and they are very sweet. Shishi dates are other popular items in Qatar. With a medium size, amber color, and tasting like honey, they are considered relatively as popular as Khalas dates.
Barhi dates are mainly known for their creamy texture. And slightly nutty flavor. These dates are the most popular ones in Qatar.
Popularity of Dates in Qatar
The popularity of dates in Qatar is heavily related to Qatari cuisine. Dates are a fundamental item in many Qatari dishes, desserts, and especially beverages. Their benefits are known to many people, and Qatari people love this national fruit of their country.
Dates, Qatar’s national fruit, can also be served as an appetizer or snack, especially during the Ramadan month, which is the main part of the Iftar ritual. Muslims, during the Ramadan month, never forget dates in their cuisine.
So, dates can be used in many dishes and meals, and they are popular mainly for their wide variety of uses.
Historical Backgrounds
The historical background of dates can be traced back to thousands of years ago. Much evidence shows that date palms have existed in the area of Qatar from ancient times, which makes it very special and unique.
Over time, for centuries, Qatari people have used dates in their cuisine and it has become a part of their agricultural practices. They also have been traded for centuries among locals and communities of Qatar.
In recent years, Qatar has focused a lot on its national fruit and is now one of the major exporters of dates to many countries, especially European nations.
Dates, Qatar National Fruit Benefits
Rich in dietary fiber, dates are highly nutritious foods. Including natural sugars, vitamins, and minerals, they are highly valuable food items that can be the best source of energy.
Dates are the healthiest snacks that you can eat and get all of the dietary fibers. It is the best option if you want to eat healthily, stay away from sickness, and get a great boost of energy, especially if you are tired.
So, you can try this small snack whenever you want, wherever you want, and be sure that you are eating healthy while receiving a lot of vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and copper.
Where to Find Best Dates in Qatar?
If you want to try some Qatari dates, you can find the best ones from local farms and date plantations. There are many farms in diverse areas of Qatar, especially in the Al Khor and Al Shamal areas.
You can also head out to local markets, souqs, and old bazaars that are filled with souvenir shops and other stores to really feel the atmosphere of buying a natural product and symbol of the country from the hands of the locals.
Interesting Facts
Qatar is home to the oldest date palm (more than 500 years old) in the world and is situated in the Al Zubarah site.
The most prestigious and high-quality dates of Qatar are Khalas dates which are widely popular due to their exceptional taste.
Qatar hosts an annual date festival that showcases the importance and significance of the national fruit of Qatar.
Date Palm trees are also a symbol in Qatari culture. They are widely used in art and architecture.
Date palm trees can thrive in the harsh and difficult deserts of Qatar.
Dates, as Qatar’s national fruit, are one of the major economic exports of this country due to their ideal quality.
Final Words
Dates are a symbol of Qatar since they are mostly produced across the country. They are very healthy and beneficial and are great for boosting your energy. Dates also have a historical significance because they are the oldest fruits in Arabic countries.
So, if you want to test the true taste of a good date, make sure to visit Qatar and buy high-quality dates.
Are you planning to travel to Qatar and looking for a Qatar travel agency? Check out our Qatar tours, and Qatar transit tours.
