Qatar to Host 10th Local Dates Festival at Souq Waqif

With an annual harvest of more than 26,000 tonnes of fresh dates (ruttab) from more than 892 productive farms, Qatar is further bolstering its food security and advancing sustainable agriculture. With over 75% of its date production being self-sufficient, the nation’s agri-food industry demonstrates growth and resilience.

The Ministry of Municipality and the Souq Waqif administration are inviting the public to the 10th Local Dates Festival, which will be held at Eastern Square in Souq Waqif from July 24 to August 7, 2025, in an effort to promote homegrown produce and support local farmers.

Attendees have the fantastic opportunity to learn about and taste a wide range of dates that are grown throughout Qatar thanks to the festival. The event honors a deeply ingrained aspect of the country’s agricultural heritage and emphasizes the value of local farming in promoting food sustainability, more than just a showcase of fresh produce. On weekdays (Sunday through Thursday), the event runs from 4 to 9 p.m.; on weekends (Friday and Saturday), it runs from 4 to 10 p.m. Approximately 23% of Qatar’s total cultivated land is made up of 2,542 hectares of date farming, which includes more than 508,000 palm trees.These numbers demonstrate Qatar’s dedication to optimizing agricultural potential, which is bolstered by cutting-edge irrigation systems, post-harvest enhancements, and exacting quality standards.

Additionally, this year’s event gives small and medium-sized farms an essential stage on which to present their products, network, and investigate market prospects. These farms support the preservation of traditional farming methods and are essential to rural development. The nutritional advantages of dates and their use in Qatari cooking are highlighted by educational booths, cultural exhibits, and health awareness events held in addition to the date displays and sales.

The goal of the event is to increase national efforts toward self-sufficiency and pique young people’s interest in careers in agriculture. The 10th Local Dates Festival is open to everyone and promises to be an exciting event for foodies, families, and farmers alike. It is more than just a marketplace; it is a lively celebration of Qatar’s natural resources and sustainable future.