Local Farmers Praise Government Support at 10th Dates Festival in Souq Waqif

Qatar’s date farming community is celebrating the significant strides made in local agricultural development, thanks to robust government support. Among the participants at the current dates festival is Yousef Ahmed Al-Taher, a dedicated grower and owner of Al-Taher Farms, who shared insights into the industry’s rapid growth.

Al-Taher noted a remarkable expansion in farmer participation over the years. “We started with just 13 farms in the early days. Now, more than 110 farms are involved,” he said, pointing to how centrally located festivals in Doha have generated strong consumer interest and helped boost farmers’ exposure and sales.

One major enhancement this year is the extension of the festival, now running from July 24 to August 7. Al-Taher praised this decision, saying it allows farmers to present a wider range of date varieties, including those that ripen later in the season. This extended timeframe, he said, is essential for showcasing the full spectrum of local production.

As a long-time contributor to the festival, Al-Taher shared that his farm grows around 1,300 date palms, yielding 45 to 50 tonnes annually. His collection includes nearly 50 different types of dates, ranging from widely known varieties to rare ones. The festival, he said, is an important avenue for farmers to highlight both the diversity and quality of their produce.

Recalling past successes, Al-Taher mentioned selling around nine tonnes of dates during the previous year’s event and is hopeful that 2025’s edition will exceed expectations. With over 100 farms on board this time, he believes the event could set new records in sales and attendance.

He also acknowledged the strong coordination between the Ministry of Municipality and Souq Waqif’s management, which helped streamline farmer participation. “This event goes beyond trade — it reflects who we are,” he said. “The date palm is a vital part of our identity. It has historically provided food, shelter, and materials, making it central to life in the desert.”

Al-Taher emphasized the symbolic importance of the date palm, calling it a representation of Qatar’s cultural heritage, sustainability, and endurance. The growing turnout at the festival is a testament to the increasing popularity and international appeal of Qatari dates.

Held at Souq Waqif’s Eastern Square, the 10th edition of the Local Dates Festival welcomes visitors from 4 pm to 9 pm on weekdays and until 10 pm on weekends. Organized by the Ministry of Municipality in partnership with Souq Waqif, the festival provides a direct link between farmers and consumers, celebrating the country’s agricultural roots.

This year’s event features an extensive selection of freshly harvested dates and innovative date-based products. Building on the success of last year’s 240-tonne record in sales, organizers anticipate even greater outcomes this season, driven by the exceptional quality of local produce and growing public enthusiasm.