Self-guided route through Madinah's dates markets and the Quba date stalls with tastings.
This self-guided outing has no operator and nothing to book. Start at the dates stalls near the Haram, such as the Al-Baqi market beside Masjid an-Nabawi, where Ajwa is the speciality and tastings are offered. Take a taxi to the Al-Manakhah market, one of Madinah's oldest, for Sukkari and Safawi dates, nuts and honey, and to practise bargaining. Finish at Quba, where the Quba dates market near Masjid Fajr is known for mabroom dates and Al-Aliya date farm stands next to Quba Mosque. A cafe stop at the Row Farm branch, about five minutes by car from Quba, gives a palm-lined terrace for Arabic coffee. Typical prices are Ajwa about SAR 40-150 per kg (~$11-40), Sukkari SAR 20-40 (~$5-11) and Safawi SAR 25-50 (~$7-13); quality grade and packaging cause the spread. Ask to taste, buy from the batch sampled, and request sealed, dated boxes for flights. Stalls generally run about 10:00-22:00 and close at prayers.
| Price | SAR 40-200 (~$11-53) (estimate) per person, depending on purchases |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 to 4 hours |
| Address | Madinah (markets near the Haram and at Quba) |
What is included
- Date tastings at three markets
- Optional coffee stop at Row Farm
Location
Madinah (markets near the Haram and at Quba)
24.4394, 39.6174 View on map
Highlights
- Tastings of Ajwa, Sukkari, Safawi and mabroom dates
- Three markets from the Haram to Quba
- Bargaining at Al-Manakhah
- Optional coffee at Row Farm
Tips for visiting
- Ask the per-kilo price before tasting, then state a target price for multiple kilos.
- Ajwa should be dark, plump and soft without leaking syrup.
- Buy sealed, commercially labelled boxes for travel.
- Hotel-area stalls are pricier than the outer markets.
When to visit
Morning or after Asr prayer, outside Ramadan crowds; harvest season July to September.
Accessibility
Market lanes are crowded and sometimes uneven; use taxis between markets.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a guided tour?
No. It is a self-guided route and the stops are paid individually.
How much do dates cost?
Ajwa about SAR 40-150 per kg (~$11-40), Sukkari SAR 20-40 and Safawi SAR 25-50; prices vary by grade.
Can dates be taken on a plane?
Commercially packed, labelled dates are generally accepted, but visitors should check the arrival country's food rules and the airline policy.