Different Types of Dates: Dates are more than just a sweet snack—they’re a window into the culture, agriculture, and climate of the regions they come from. With a variety of textures, flavors, and appearances, each type of date offers something unique to the table. Let’s explore 19 distinct types of dates you might come across, whether you’re a casual snacker or a culinary enthusiast.
Different Types of Dates
Dates are a valuable and nutritious fruit that come in a wide variety of types. Each type of date has its own unique characteristics, flavors, and uses, making them an important part of many cultures and cuisines around the world. In this article of Persa Trading blog, we’ll explore some of the different types of dates: the most popular and well-known varieties of dates, highlighting their differences in shape, color, texture, and taste, as well as how they are commonly enjoyed, so that if you are looking to buy dates wholesale, you can choose the right variety with confidence.
1. Safawi Dates
In the list of different types of dates, we are going to introduce Safawi dates as the first tyoe! Safawi dates are a popular variety grown in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, known for their deep black color, larger size, and resemblance to Medjool dates. These dates come from an especially productive palm tree, which means they are often more affordable than many other date varieties and are readily available throughout the year.
Their abundance and nutritional value have made them a staple in both modern diets and traditional medicine, particularly in the Middle East.
One of the most significant health benefits of Safawi dates lies in their ability to support digestive health. Rich in dietary fiber, they can help relieve constipation and are commonly used to ease intestinal disorders. At the same time, the balanced combination of fiber and essential nutrients makes them an effective natural remedy for diarrhea.
Safawi dates are also low in fat, which contributes to heart health, and they contain a notable amount of iron, making them beneficial for individuals suffering from anemia. While their appearance and texture are similar to Medjool dates, they are less sweet, making them a more suitable choice for those who need to monitor their sugar intake, such as diabetics.
2. Ajwa Dates
Ajwa dates are one of the most revered and culturally significant varieties of dates, particularly treasured in the Middle East. Originating from the city of Medina in Saudi Arabia, these dates hold deep spiritual and religious importance in Islamic tradition, often being consumed for their symbolic and medicinal value. Their distinctive dark appearance—almost black—and their small, round shape set them apart from other popular types like Medjool or Deglet Noor.
In terms of flavor, Ajwa dates offer a unique combination of earthy richness with subtle hints of caramel, chocolate, and amber. The flesh is firm but not too dry, delivering a satisfying chew without being overly sweet. This makes them an excellent option for those who want a more balanced, less sugary date. Nutritionally, Ajwa dates are a powerhouse.
They are rich in potassium and dietary fiber, and they also provide essential vitamins such as folate and riboflavin. Thanks to their moderate glycemic index, they can be enjoyed in moderation by individuals managing diabetes.
Looking for a healthy snack? Try combining Ajwa dates with a few squares of dark chocolate for a guilt-free treat that feels indulgent but is packed with nutrients. The natural richness of the date complements the bitterness of the chocolate, making it a snack that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your health goals.
To preserve their flavor and texture, store Ajwa dates in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three months. For longer shelf life, refrigerate them, and they’ll stay fresh for up to six months.
3. Zahedi Dates
Among differengt types of dates this one is so special because of its tree! Actually Zahedi dates come from a type of palm tree that is not only appreciated for its fruit but also highly regarded in landscaping due to its elegant appearance. One of the reasons Zahidi dates are well-suited for export is their firm structure—they retain their shape remarkably well during handling and shipping.
Originally native to Iraq, Zahidi date palms are now also cultivated in regions like Djibouti, Chile, India, Syria, and parts of the United States.
The dates themselves are medium-sized with a round shape and a distinctive golden hue. They offer a sweet, nutty flavor with a semi-dry, chewy texture that has buttery notes, often compared to dried apricots. This combination of taste and texture makes Zahidi dates highly versatile in the kitchen.
A single Zahidi date palm tree can yield up to 136 kilograms (about 300 pounds) of fruit per season, ranking it among the most productive date varieties. Thanks to their semi-dry consistency, these dates are particularly good for baking, as they maintain their shape and texture during cooking. They’re also ideal for both sweet and savory dishes, since their sweetness is more subtle than that of other date types.
4. Sukkari Dates
Sukkary dates are grown in Saudi Arabia, specifically in the fertile Al Qassim region. Known for their exceptional sweetness and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these dates have a light brown hue and a flavor often described as honey-like. Due to their rich taste and delicate texture, they’re sometimes referred to as “royal dates.” Like many other types of date palms, Sukkary palm trees require hand pollination by farmers to ensure optimal fruit production.
Sukkary dates hold cultural and spiritual significance, especially during Ramadan, where they are a staple in Iftar, the meal that marks the end of daily fasting.
Their natural sweetness and nourishing properties make them an ideal food to break the fast. One delicious way to enjoy them is by stuffing them with cream and a variety of nuts, such as almonds, cashews, pecans, or walnuts. These stuffed dates are sometimes enhanced with ingredients like lemon zest or candied ginger, which complement their flavor beautifully. Of course, Sukkary dates are just as delightful on their own or when used in more elaborate recipes.
5. Khudri Dates
Khudri dates originate from the Arabian Peninsula, much like many other renowned date varieties. These dates are typically smaller in size and come in several color variations—reddish-brown, white, and black—each with a distinct taste profile. They have a soft, chewy texture that makes them especially enjoyable to eat.
Among the types, the red Khudri date is the most common and is widely appreciated for its rich sweetness and pleasant mouthfeel. In contrast, the black Khudri dates are known for having a higher iron content and a mildly bitter undertone. The white Khudri dates offer a gentler, more delicate flavor, making them ideal for those who prefer milder sweetness.
Khudri dates are somewhat rarer and tend to be slightly more expensive than other common varieties. To preserve their quality, they should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place—ideally at around 60°F (15°C). When refrigerated, it’s best to wrap them in plastic to retain their natural moisture. If storing in a container, placing a small amount of rice at the bottom can help absorb excess moisture and prevent the dates from drying out too quickly.
6. Mabroom Dates
Mabroom dates are a well-loved variety originating from the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, and are easily recognized by their long, slender shape and distinctive color range, which spans from pinkish amber to deep golden brown.
The name “mabrum” in Arabic translates roughly to “compacted” — a nod to the date’s firm and dense texture. Mabroom dates are further categorized into three subtypes — red, amber, and black — each with subtle differences in flavor, size, consistency, and color.
Their thin skin gives way to a chewy interior rich with flavor, offering notes of caramel, molasses, and chocolate, sometimes accented by a mild nuttiness or tangy undertone.
Compared to sweeter varieties like Medjool, mabroom dates are more subdued in sweetness, which makes them particularly versatile — suitable for both baked desserts and savory dishes, or simply eaten on their own as a nutritious snack. Although they tend to be a bit drier than some other types, this doesn’t take away from their appealing texture or taste.
7. Barhi Dates
Among different types of dates, Barhi dates used to be an underrated variety originating from Iraq, and they fall under the category of soft dates. Nowadays, these dates are also grown in the Coachella Valley of California, where the underground water supply creates ideal conditions for date palms. When ripe, Barhi dates are famously likened to butterscotch candy, with a complex range of flavors that develop as the fruit matures.
What’s interesting about Barhi dates is their three distinct ripening stages, each offering different textures and flavors—and all stages are edible. The first, called the khalal stage, is semi-ripe with a crisp and slightly tangy texture that works well in salads. The next, known as the rutab stage, brings a creamy consistency, making these dates perfect for sweetening syrups, pastes, sauces, or even wine.
Finally, the tamr stage represents fully mature Barhi dates, when their sweetness peaks and they develop a rich, caramel-like flavor. These dates pair wonderfully with ingredients such as oranges, bananas, coconut, cinnamon, maple syrup, as well as various nuts and cheeses.
8. Halawi Dates
Halawi dates also originate from Iraq. This types of date was introduced to California early in the 20th century. The word “Halawi” means “sweet” in Arabic, which perfectly describes these dates. They offer a rich, sweet flavor with buttery and caramel notes that are often compared to the taste of pecan pie. Halawi dates typically have a honey-golden hue, a thin outer skin, and an elongated oval shape.
Known as a semi-dry variety, Halawi dates are occasionally harvested at different stages of ripeness. When not fully ripe, they tend to be firmer and less sweet, but most growers prefer to harvest them at full maturity to maximize their culinary uses.
These dates have a pleasantly firm texture, holding their shape well when chopped or diced, thanks to their moderate fiber content. This makes them ideal for baking since they won’t turn too mushy, and they’re also great for stuffing with cream cheese and nuts. Though not as soft or pliable as Medjool dates, Halawi can be a reliable substitute. Their flavor pairs beautifully with ingredients like nuts, chocolate, coffee, cream, cinnamon, coconut, orange, brandy, rum, and many more.
9. Deglet Noor Dates
Deglet Noor dates are arguably the most well-known and widely consumed variety of dates, often appreciated for their firm texture and balanced sweetness. Unlike the softer Medjool dates, Deglet Noors hold their shape well, making them especially convenient for cooking and baking.
Their resilience and mild flavor make them a go-to choice in a wide range of culinary applications — from upscale entrées and traditional stews to baked goods and desserts. These dates typically range in color from golden yellow to light amber and are known for their semi-dry, slightly chewy flesh.
One of the key advantages of Deglet Noor dates is their adaptability. They’re ideal for producing date sugar, syrups, and baking pastes due to their consistency and moisture level. Because they don’t fall apart easily, they’re also perfect in recipes like cookies or energy bars, where you want a fruit that blends in without overwhelming the texture.
For a simple yet elegant appetizer, try bacon-wrapped Deglet Noor dates with Parmesan cheese. The combination of the chewy date, the salty Parmesan, and the crispy bacon creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Just stuff each pitted date with a small cube of Parmesan, wrap it in a thin slice of bacon, and roast in the oven until golden and crispy. A final touch of fresh parsley elevates the dish for a beautiful presentation.
10. Medjool Dates
Medjool dates are widely regarded as one of the most beloved and recognizable types of dates, thanks to their rich, caramel-like sweetness and quite large size. These dates, like all varieties, grow on palm trees. Originally hailing from Morocco, medjool dates are now cultivated across various regions of the world, including the United States, countries in the Middle East, South Asia, and parts of Africa.
One of their defining features is their soft, sticky texture — a result of being sold mostly in dried form — which makes them especially useful in recipes that benefit from a naturally moist and pliable fruit.
In comparison to Deglet Noor dates, medjools contain a higher natural sugar content, giving them an even more indulgent flavor. They’re also rich in dietary fiber, making them a supportive ingredient for digestive health and a smart choice for those aiming to increase their fiber intake naturally.
In the kitchen, medjool dates shine in both sweet and savory dishes. For example, they pair beautifully with salty, crispy elements like pancetta. A simple yet impressive recipe involves roasting the dates and combining them with pancetta, almonds, garlic, red pepper flakes, and stock.
After pan-frying the pancetta until it crisps up, you can stir in the almonds and aromatics, then add a touch of butter, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The final step is to add the softened dates into the pan and coat them with the savory sauce — creating a dish that plays on sweet, salty, and nutty notes all at once.
11. Thoory Dates
Thoory dates, sometimes spelled thuri dates, are believed to have originated in Tolga, a region within Algeria’s Biskra province, although they are now also cultivated in California. Known as the driest of all date varieties, their firm texture has earned them the nickname “bread dates.”
Because of their low moisture content, thoory dates have a texture more akin to a pastry than a typical sticky date. If you happen to come across thoory dates but prefer a softer bite, soaking them in water beforehand can help make them more tender. Otherwise, their naturally dry nature makes them perfect for those who don’t enjoy overly sticky or moist fruits.
Beyond their unique texture, thoory dates are celebrated for their distinct nutty flavor, which is often compared to cashews or peanuts. This makes them an excellent addition to granola, trail mix, or a variety of baked goods.
They also blend beautifully into smoothies, especially when combined with banana, oat milk, or other nut-friendly ingredients. Visually, thoory dates are easy to recognize by their wrinkled surface and light brown to golden color.
12. Dayri Dates
Dayri dates originally come from the Basra region in Iraq. Over the years, the palm trees that produce these dates have spread and are now also cultivated in places like the United States. Characterized by their oval shape, Dayri dates contain a single seed surrounded by soft, tender flesh. They typically have a dark brown to black color and differ from some other varieties by lacking a fibrous texture.
Compared to sweeter dates like Medjool, Dayri dates offer a more subtle sweetness with an earthy undertone that becomes noticeable, especially since they are harvested in late fall.
Among different types of dates this variety is versatile in the kitchen, fitting well into both sweet and savory recipes. While delicious eaten on their own, their larger size makes them perfect for stuffing. The natural flavor of Dayri dates pairs wonderfully with different ingredients such as the creamy texture of goat cheese.
Additionally, they work well as a natural sweetener and can be easily transformed into a smooth paste. This paste complements a variety of dishes, including ice cream, smoothies, and oatmeal. For a simple yet tasty snack, try spreading Dayri date paste on bread and adding a pinch of salt for contrast.
13.Honey Dates: A Soft, Sweet, and Buttery Delight
Honey dates are a soft and tender variety of date fruit, named for their different sweetness that closely resembles the flavor of natural honey. Though many honey dates share common characteristics—such as their smooth texture and gentle taste—they can still differ slightly in appearance and flavor intensity.
The color of honey dates typically ranges from light golden caramel to rich, dark brown, and they tend to be softer and more pliable than most other date varieties. Their buttery consistency makes them melt in your mouth, adding an indulgent element to both sweet and savory dishes.
What truly sets honey dates apart is their unique taste profile. Depending on the type, they can evoke the flavors of wildflower honey or even lean into darker, molasses-like tones. This complexity makes them a favorite among those seeking a natural sweetener with depth and character.
Thanks to their soft texture, honey dates easily break down during cooking and can be used to make smooth caramel sauces or blended directly into batters and doughs. They’re ideal for sweetening cookies, cake mixtures, pancakes, brownies, ice cream, or oatmeal, adding richness without overpowering the other ingredients. Their flavor pairs beautifully with dark chocolate, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, butter, coconut, orange zest, ginger, and even dark rum.
14. Rabbi Dates
Rabbi dates are a native Iranian variety and rank among the country’s most significant agricultural products. These dates have an elongated oval shape and are mainly reddish in color, which makes them distinct from many other date types. They belong to the semi-dry category, meaning they contain less moisture and therefore tend to last longer on the shelf.
The cultivation of Rabbi date palms is limited to just two regions in Iran, yet their reach extends globally through exports. Their highest demand comes from countries like Central Asia, India, and Pakistan. The area growing Rabbi dates boasts a rich tradition of date palm farming that spans more than two millennia.
Interestingly, the seeds of Rabbi dates are packed with antioxidants and are utilized to produce date seed oil, which finds applications in the cosmetic industry.
Nutritionally, Rabbi dates are rich in fructose and lactose, making them a suitable choice for people with diabetes or high blood pressure. Thanks to their high fiber content, these dates also support healthy digestion and can be beneficial for individuals with anemia due to their mineral richness.
15. Mazafati Dates
Among different types of Iranian dates, Mazafati dates are a well-known variety from Iran, classified as wet dates because of their high moisture content—a key factor that reflects their quality. The freshest mazafati dates, usually harvested in early September, hold the most moisture and tend to be the priciest.
Depending on moisture levels, mazafati dates are categorized into three types: fresh dates with about 30% moisture, semi-dry dates containing 20-25%, and dried dates with roughly 16% moisture.
These dates typically appear black with thin skin that’s easy to peel off. Their flavor is distinctly sweet, making them a great natural substitute for sugar. One remarkable benefit of mazafati dates is their high iron content, which supports healthy hair growth.
Beyond iron, they also provide essential minerals like phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, all of which contribute to nervous system health and cholesterol reduction. Additionally, mazafati dates are rich in vitamins such as A, the B complex group, and C, adding to their impressive nutritional profile. This causes the mazafati dates price to vary widely, attracting traders to purchase them.
16. Sayer Dates
Sayer dates are a unique variety found exclusively in Iran. They are grown primarily on farms around the city of Shadegan, where the fertile valley soil and the presence of two major rivers create ideal conditions for date cultivation. Known as one of the sweetest date types globally, Sayer dates boast a sugar content of roughly 75%, comparable to that of Piarom dates.
These dates have a soft, caramel-flavored flesh and a light brown hue. In Iran, they are available both with and without pits. The pitted versions are particularly convenient for industrial uses, including in biscuits, sweets, and even vinegar production. Thanks to their moderate moisture content, Sayer dates have a shelf life of up to two years.
They can also be easily rehydrated by adding a little water and placing them in sunlight briefly. While delicious eaten fresh, Sayer dates also serve as a natural sweetener in pastries, desserts, and ice cream.
17. Kimia Dates
These dates are considered a premium variety, often commanding higher prices than other types. However, their exceptional quality and distinct flavor make them well worth the cost, particularly if you’re looking to gift dates or serve them at special occasions.
Kimia dates are primarily cultivated in southern Iran, especially in Bam, a city in the Kerman province renowned for producing high-quality dates.
Kimia dates begin with a deep purple hue and gradually turn black as they ripen. They are known for their smooth skin and soft, meaty texture, thanks to their high water content.
The moisture level in each date depends on the harvest time, which ranges from early August through late October. Because of their naturally soft consistency, Kimia dates blend easily, making them an excellent natural sweetener for smoothies, desserts, or baking.
18. Omani Dates
Omani dates originate from Oman, a country situated on the southeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula. As one of the world’s leading date producers, Oman boasts more than 250 distinct varieties, each with its own unique qualities. Among the most well-known are Khalas, Farth (or Fard), and Khunaizi dates.
Khalas dates are yellow when fresh and develop a rich caramel-brown hue as they dry. Farth dates, the most common type in Oman, are recognized by their chocolate-brown color and slightly tender texture. Meanwhile, Khunaizi dates are prized for their large size, deep red color, and intensely sweet flavor.
Omani dates fall into two main categories: table dates and manufacturing dates.
Table dates are suitable for direct consumption by humans, while manufacturing dates are typically used for animal feed or industrial purposes. For the edible varieties, dates hold deep cultural significance in Oman. It’s customary to serve them alongside Arabic coffee (qahwa) at nearly every occasion—from weddings and religious holidays to everyday social visits—reflecting their importance in Omani hospitality and tradition.
19. Piarom Dates
Piarom dates are a premium date variety native to Iran, specifically cultivated in the southern mountainous regions of the country. Often referred to as “chocolate dates” due to their rich flavor and deep brown color, these dates are considered one of the most luxurious and expensive types available.
The reason for their rarity lies in the limited number of regions where Piarom palm trees can grow, as they thrive only in specific mountain climates. Harvesting typically takes place between October and November, making them a seasonal delicacy.
These dates have a unique thin skin that clings tightly to the flesh and a natural chocolate-like taste that sets them apart. Piarom dates are also known for having fewer calories and a lower glycemic index compared to many other varieties, making them a popular choice for individuals managing blood sugar levels, including people with diabetes.
While Piarom dates are delicious on their own as a healthy snack, they also work beautifully in a variety of dishes. Thanks to their low moisture content, they store well in airtight containers and can last longer than softer varieties.
Try using them to naturally sweeten your breakfast cereal, baked goods like bread, cookies, and cakes, or even in puddings. For something more indulgent yet healthy, blend them into smoothie recipes or use them to create date sugar—a nutrient-rich alternative to refined sugar.
20. Saghai Dates
Saghai dates are known for their soft texture and delightful sweetness, making them a popular choice among date varieties. These dates are primarily grown in the Arabian Peninsula, where the climate provides ideal conditions for their cultivation. They typically have a golden brown color at the tip, which tends to be dry, while the rest of the fruit is a rich brown and notably soft to the touch. This unique combination of texture and color makes Saghai dates not only visually appealing but also deliciously enjoyable as a natural sweet treat.
Final Thoughts
The diversity among dates is astounding—from the soft and sticky Medjool to the dry and firm Thoory. Each variety brings a different story to the plate: some are best fresh, others dried; some are sugar bombs, others taste like subtle caramel. Whether you’re making smoothies, baking energy bars, or simply enjoying a handful as a snack, there’s a type of date to suit every taste.
So next time you find yourself in a grocery store or market, try something new—explore the rich world of dates one bite at a time.
