Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra hosts its fourth annual dating festival, auction

The Al Dhafra Desert region of Abu Dhabi has once again opened its gates to the world of dates, launching the fourth annual edition of the Al Dhafra Dates Festival & Auction under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ruler’s representative in the region. The festival, which is scheduled to last till October 26, 2025, is seen as a landmark event for date production, cultural heritage and agricultural innovation.

At its core the festival aims to raise the UAE’s profile in leading date varieties, support national food security strategies, improve quality standards in cultivation and provide a learning platform for growers and enthusiasts.

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This year’s edition promises an expanded competitive program. A total of 21 distinct competitions will be held, offering 173 prizes worth over AED 5.5 million. Contestants will compete in categories ranging from date beauty contests, honey contests, cooking, date packing, painting and photography.

The highly anticipated daily date auction is central to the festival’s appeal. Visitors will have the opportunity to bid on top-quality Emirati dates, sorted by type and grade at dedicated display tables, adding a commercial and festive dimension to the event.

Beyond the auction, the festival offers a rich array of cultural and educational activities. These include traditional folk performances, photography and painting exhibitions, heritage craft demonstrations, awareness lectures and creative workshops designed for all age groups. Retail stores selling dates and date products, farm equipment and an exclusive Honey Village further enhance the experience.

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Government and private entities are also participating through booths showcasing interactive programs, farmer awareness platforms and displays of their latest services and innovations in the agriculture sector.

A notable point this year is the presence of the Kingdom of Morocco as the guest of honor, highlighting the deepening of agricultural and cultural cooperation between Morocco and the UAE, particularly in palm cultivation and date production.