Sharjah24: Souq Al Jubail in Sharjah and Al Hamriyad closed the curtain on the sixth edition of the Dates Festival on a high note, after two fruitful months which saw the participation of date traders in the United Arab Emirates, as well as traders from across the region which showcased a variety of local and imported dates.

The festival recorded sales exceeding 3.8 tons, as large numbers of visitors and date lovers went to the Souq, especially during Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

"Al-Khalas" and "Lulu" registered the largest number of sales, given the traders’ competitive pricing strategy and the quality of the dates they offered for a wide range of varieties, including Al-Negal, Al-Khunaizi, Lulu Khalas Al-Khasab, Al-Barhi, Al-Ratana, Al-Jabali and others.

Eng. Hamid Al Zarouni, Execative Director – Asset Management, at Sharjah Asset Management, the investment arm of the Government of Sharjah, said that the Date Festival is one of the most important events focusing on showcasing and trading of dates as well as dates-related products in the country at very competitive prices. “The event combines the commercial and heritage aspects of the dates industry and highlighted the importance of the palm tree and its contributions to the economy as it is a staple food in Emirati homes and a favorite during special occasions.”

In addition, Al Zarouni pointed out that the management of Souq Al Jubail took all the necessary safety and health precautions and implemented the practice of social distancing among shoppers. “We had a dedicated staff that completely cleaned and sterilized the booths of the participating traders on a daily basis, in addition to providing fixed sterilization points for hands in the festival area, in compliance with all public safety rules,” he added.

In addition to its commercial value, the palm tree that bears the date fruit occupies a significant position in the historical, cultural and economic heritage of the UAE. Successive generations have planted and taken care of it, and the wise leadership of the Emirates has provided the date industry the necessary support to ensure its growth and enhance its competitiveness to enable it to make positive contributions to the economy.