The city's main dates market, selling dates by weight and in gift boxes. Vendors usually allow tasting before purchase.
Dates Market Madinah, on Prince Abdul Mohsen Road in the An Naqa district of central Madinah, is the city's best-known place to buy dates in Saudi Arabia's Al Madinah region. Madinah is closely associated with dates, and the market concentrates dozens of stalls and small shops selling the varieties the region is known for, led by Ajwa, along with Safawi, Sukkari, Khalas and Mabroom. Goods are sold loose by weight from open trays and in ready-packed gift boxes, with many stalls also offering dried fruit, nuts, date paste, date syrup and Arabic coffee. Compared with generic souvenir shopping, the stock here is food rather than trinkets, so nearly everything on sale is authentic produce; the main quality difference lies in grade, freshness and origin rather than in fakes. Premium Ajwa and large Medjool-style dates carry the highest prices, while everyday varieties cost far less, with typical prices of roughly SAR 40-150 per kg (an estimate that varies by grade and season). Vendors usually allow tasting before purchase, which is the best way to judge softness, sweetness and moisture. Prices are often quoted per kilogram and modest bargaining is normal, particularly when buying several kilograms or multiple gift boxes; a small discount for volume is common. Most stalls accept cash, and many accept cards or mobile payment, though a cash reserve in Saudi riyals is useful. Visitors should note that tax-refund schemes for tourists are limited and rules change, so ask the vendor whether a VAT refund applies to a given purchase. The atmosphere is busy and informal, with crowds peaking around prayer times and in the evenings, and especially during Ramadan and the Hajj and Umrah seasons, when pilgrims buy dates as gifts. Food options are limited on-site beyond coffee, sweets and snacks, but cafes and restaurants are close by. The market is laid out as rows of stalls, so a first walk through the full length before buying helps compare prices and quality. Check that boxes are sealed and labelled, and consider vacuum-packed options for travelling.
| Price | SAR 40-150 per kg (~$11-40) (estimate) |
|---|---|
| Address | Prince Abdul Mohsen Road, An Naqa, Madinah |
Location
Prince Abdul Mohsen Road, An Naqa, Madinah
24.4638, 39.6081 View on map
Highlights
- Taste Ajwa, Safawi and Sukkari dates before buying
- Buy dates loose by weight or in ready-made gift boxes
- Compare many stalls along one central market strip
- Find date paste, syrup, nuts and Arabic coffee alongside
Tips for visiting
- Taste several varieties and compare prices at multiple stalls before committing.
- Ask for vacuum-packed or sealed boxes if the dates will travel by air.
- Expect lighter crowds in the morning and heavier ones around evening prayers.
- Bargain gently on multi-kilo purchases rather than single boxes.
- Carry some cash in riyals in case a stall does not take cards.
Frequently asked questions
What type of dates is Madinah best known for?
Ajwa dates are the variety most associated with Madinah, and are usually the most expensive. Safawi and Sukkari are also widely sold and are popular for everyday eating and gifts.
Can visitors taste dates before buying?
Yes, vendors at the market usually allow tasting. Trying a few varieties helps compare texture, sweetness and freshness.
Is bargaining expected?
Light bargaining is common, especially for larger quantities. Prices for boxed gifts are often fixed, so negotiation works best on loose dates bought by weight.
Can dates be taken home by air?
Dates are generally allowed in luggage, but rules depend on the destination country. Sealed, vacuum-packed boxes are easier to carry and to present at customs.