Medjool Date: The King of Dates

Medjool Dates

Today is celebrated as the day of the Medjool Date, widely known as “the king of dates”, which are large, wide, caramel-like variety of date fruit originally from Morocco. They are grown widely in warm regions, including the Middle East, North Africa, and North America, particularly in California and Arizona. This date is widely praised for its texture and its nutritional benefits. 

Medjool dates are packed with fiber and provide key vitamins and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and copper. These nutrients aid digestion, help regulate blood pressure and muscle activity, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health. Known as natural energy boosters, they are especially favored during Ramadan. Qatar produces approximately 31,180 tons of dates each year.

Medjool dates require very specific conditions to grow. They thrive in arid climates; these extreme conditions, paired with access to water as well as sandy, well-drained soil, create the perfect conditions for date palms. Without this balance of heat and water, it would be impossible to produce the large, sweet fruit. 

What makes this date different from other dates are this is notoriously labor-intensive to grow and harvest. Unlike other fruits that can be mechanically harvested, Medjool dates are hand-picked due to their delicate nature. This date not only comes in large sizes, but it also has jumbo and medium sizes, each of them offering a slightly different sweetness. 

Medjool dates stand among the most exported varieties to Qatar, with Jordan serving as the primary supplier. According to the 2024 report, Qatar imported 100 tons of Medjool dates from Jordan—an 8.7% rise compared to the previous year. Jordan also took part in Qatar’s 10th Local Dates Festival at Souq Waqif, held from July 24 to August 7, 2025. The demand for premium Medjool dates continues to rise in Qatar, particularly during Ramadan and other festive seasons.