Qatar Local Date Harvesting Season Begins as Farmers Expect Strong Crop

Qatar’s local date harvesting season is getting underway, with farmers anticipating a strong harvest as fresh rutab dates begin appearing across local farms and markets.

The annual season is an important part of Qatar’s agricultural calendar and typically begins toward the end of July, with production reaching its peak during the summer months. Depending on the variety, farm location and growing conditions, harvesting can continue into October.

Qatar’s farms produce more than 20 varieties of dates, including popular cultivars such as Khalas, Shishi, Khenaizi and Barhi, along with Arizi, Hilali, Sukkari, Zahidi, Nabut Saif and Sufri.

The Ministry of Municipality continues to support local date production by providing farmers with agricultural inputs, technical assistance and pest-control services. In 2025, Qatar’s national date production reached approximately 24,000 tonnes, highlighting the growing importance of date cultivation to the country’s agricultural sector.

The annual harvest also plays an important cultural role, with dates traditionally served in Qatari homes and majlis gatherings during the summer. Events such as the Local Dates Festival at Souq Waqif provide farmers with opportunities to showcase and sell their produce directly to consumers.

The 2026 local rutab season is expected to strengthen the visibility of Qatari-grown dates while supporting local farmers, agricultural sustainability and the country’s broader food-security objectives.