Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia — The Al-Ahsa Rutab harvest 2025 has officially begun, with farmers collecting the first batches of fresh dates as summer temperatures rise. From May 20 to July 20, markets across Saudi Arabia will receive more than 20 renowned Rutab varieties produced in Al-Ahsa, led by Khalas, Sheeshi, and Ghar dates.
The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture has confirmed that this year’s Rutab season promises abundant and high-quality production from Al-Ahsa Oasis. The oasis is globally recognized for its agricultural heritage and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Early Rutab Harvest Varieties Reach Saudi Date Markets
Date markets across the Kingdom have already started receiving popular early Rutab varieties, including:
- Tayyar Rutab: Harvested from May 20 to 30
- Majnaz Rutab: From May 25 to 30
- Ghar Rutab: From June 1 to 10
- Khneizi Rutab: From June 15 to 20
- Sheeshi Rutab: From June 25 to 30
- Khalas Rutab: From July 10 to 20
The Ministry noted that “late Rutab” varieties will be harvested from early July to mid-August, featuring:
- Um Raheem Rutab
- Zamli & Shahal Rutab
- Hilali Rutab
Peak Date Harvest and Premium Syrup Production
The peak date harvesting season runs from mid-August to early October, including:
- Sheeshi Dates: August 15 to 25
- Khalas Dates: September 15 to 25
- Rziz Dates: October 1 to 15
Al-Ahsa is also famous for its premium date syrup varieties, including Marzban, Hatmi, and Shahal dates. The region’s agricultural heritage makes it one of Saudi Arabia’s key contributors to national date production.
Al-Ahsa Oasis is the world’s largest palm oasis, boasting over 2 million palm trees that produce more than 120,000 tons of dates annually. The region grows more than 20 well-known date varieties, reinforcing its role as a vital part of Saudi agricultural heritage.
The Saudi Standard’s View: Al-Ahsa’s Rutab Season Reflects Agricultural Strength
The start of the Al-Ahsa Rutab harvest 2025 highlights the region’s significance in Saudi date production and agricultural heritage. As early varieties like Khalas and Sheeshi enter markets, the harvest reflects both economic opportunity and cultural tradition. With global recognition of Al-Ahsa’s oasis and strong demand for premium dates, sustaining high-quality production and preserving farming practices will be key to ensuring the sector’s long-term growth and supporting Saudi Arabia’s agricultural economy.
Explore Al-Ahsa’s agricultural heritage and UNESCO-listed palm oasis
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