MadinahDec 6, 2025
Extended Visiting Hours for Rawdah
New visiting hours announced for women's Rawdah access during peak season.
The complete guide to Ajwa dates — why they matter, how to identify genuine ones, a full breakdown of Saudi date varieties, and where to buy them near Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah.
Ajwa dates (العجوة) are a variety of date palm fruit grown exclusively in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. They are considered the most sacred and sought-after date variety in the Muslim world — not only for their nutritional value, but for their direct connection to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who is reported to have planted and eaten Ajwa dates himself.
Visually, Ajwa dates are distinctive: dark — almost jet black — with a slightly dry, wrinkled skin and a compact, dense texture. They are smaller than Medjool dates and have a subtler, more complex flavour: earthy, mildly sweet, with hints of spice that set them apart from the intense caramel sweetness of other varieties.
"Whoever has seven Ajwa dates every morning, he will not be harmed on that day by poison or magic."
— Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 71, Hadith 663
Multiple authentic hadith reference Ajwa dates specifically — distinguishing them by name from other date varieties. The Prophet ﷺ is reported to have said they are from Paradise, recommended eating seven in the morning as protection from harm, and encouraged cultivating them in Madinah.
This religious significance makes Ajwa dates one of the most common gifts pilgrims bring home from Madinah. For millions of Muslims, receiving Ajwa dates brought from Masjid an-Nabawi carries a meaning beyond the fruit itself.
Studies have found Ajwa dates contain flavonoids and polyphenols linked to reduced cardiovascular risk and improved circulation.
Among the highest antioxidant levels of any date variety tested — protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Natural sugars — fructose and glucose — provide sustained energy, making them ideal before Fajr or long periods of Tawaf.
Anti-inflammatory compounds may support joint health and help manage conditions aggravated by the physical demands of Hajj and Umrah.
High fibre content supports digestive regularity — useful when diet changes during travel.
Emerging research suggests compounds in Ajwa may offer neuroprotective properties, though studies are ongoing.
Note: while research supports many benefits of dates generally and Ajwa specifically, they should be consumed as part of a balanced diet. Diabetics should monitor portion sizes given the natural sugar content.
The Madinah date market has no shortage of sellers labelling products as 'Ajwa'. Here's what to look for to ensure you're buying the real thing:
Colour: Genuine Ajwa are very dark brown to black. If they look lighter or reddish, they're likely a different variety.
Size: Smaller than Medjool. Medium-sized, compact, and oval. Large 'Ajwa' are almost certainly mislabelled.
Skin texture: Slightly wrinkled, dry outer skin. Not glossy or overly soft — they hold their shape when gently squeezed.
Flesh: Dense and semi-dry. Not as soft or sticky as Medjool or Sukkari. There should be a distinct, firm bite.
Flavour: Subtle, earthy sweetness with slight complexity. Not intensely sweet. If it tastes like simple sugar, it may not be genuine Ajwa.
Price: Real Ajwa command a premium — SAR 80–250/kg depending on grade. Extremely cheap 'Ajwa' is a red flag.
Source: Buy from established shops near Masjid an-Nabawi. Reputable sellers will confirm Madinah origin and often show certifications.
Saudi Arabia produces over 100 date varieties, but these are the seven you'll most commonly encounter in Makkah and Madinah date shops — each with its own flavour profile, origin, and price point.
The most sacred of Saudi date varieties, grown exclusively in Madinah. Dark, almost black, with a dry and slightly wrinkled skin. Flavour is subtly sweet with earthy, almost spiced undertones. The Prophet ﷺ is reported to have planted Ajwa trees himself.
Large, soft, and intensely sweet with a rich caramel flavour. The most recognisable date variety globally. Grown in Al-Ula and the Jordan Valley. Best eaten fresh; look for plump, moist examples with smooth skin.
Often called the 'sugar date' — Sukkari means sweet in Arabic. Golden-yellow colour, very soft flesh, and an almost honey-like sweetness. One of the most popular varieties in Saudi Arabia. Extremely perishable when fresh; also sold semi-dried.
A Madinah-grown variety like Ajwa, but distinctly different. Safawi dates are soft, moist, and dark — sometimes confused with Ajwa by tourists. Flavour is sweeter and less complex than Ajwa. A quality date in its own right at a more accessible price point.
Unique in that they are eaten at the yellow (khalal) stage when still crisp and slightly astringent, or fully ripened to a soft, caramel-brown date. The crunchy yellow Barhi eaten fresh during their short season are a special Saudi experience.
A premium date from the Al-Ahsa region, considered one of Saudi Arabia's finest. Rich amber-brown colour, semi-dry texture, with a distinctive toffee-like flavour and slight smokiness. Highly regarded by Saudi date connoisseurs.
Long, slender, and dark — Mabroom are easily recognised by their distinctive elongated shape. Grown in the Madinah region, they have a chewy texture and a mild, nutty sweetness. Often sold as a slightly more affordable Madinah date alternative to Ajwa.
The highest concentration of date shops near Masjid an-Nabawi is along the streets immediately surrounding the mosque — particularly on the northern and western sides. The area between Masjid an-Nabawi and Al-Masjid an-Nabawi Hotel Row is lined with specialist date sellers, many of whom have been trading for generations.
Large malls near the Haram — including Al Noor Mall and Madinah Mall — also have date sections, but for the best variety, the street-level specialist shops typically offer more choice, fresher stock, and the ability to taste before buying.
Tip: Ask to taste before purchasing. Every reputable seller will offer samples. If a seller refuses, or the price seems unusually low for Ajwa, move on.
Buying in bulk: Ajwa dates are commonly sold in 1kg, 3kg, and 5kg gift boxes — perfect for distributing to family. Boxes can be vacuum-sealed for longer shelf life and safer transport on the flight home.
| Grade | Characteristics | Price (per kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Premium (Mumtaz) | Uniform size, perfect skin, certified Madinah origin | SAR 180–250 |
| Grade A | Good quality, minor variation, genuine Ajwa | SAR 100–180 |
| Standard | Mixed sizes, some imperfection, authentic Ajwa | SAR 80–100 |
| ⚠ Below SAR 60 | Likely not genuine Ajwa — treat with caution | |
Dates are permitted on most international flights in both hand luggage and checked baggage.
For large quantities, request vacuum-sealed packaging — this extends shelf life to 12+ months and prevents damage.
Most countries allow commercially packed, dried dates without restriction. Check customs rules for your destination, particularly Australia, New Zealand, and the USA which can have stricter biosecurity rules.
Ajwa dates in sealed gift boxes make ideal presents — many shops near Masjid an-Nabawi offer premium gift packaging.
Store unopened packages at room temperature away from sunlight. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2–4 weeks.
Ajwa dates are native to Madinah and are considered the authentic variety when grown there. Commercially labelled 'Ajwa' from other regions exists but is widely considered inferior in flavour and spiritual significance. For genuine Ajwa, buy from verified sellers in Madinah near Masjid an-Nabawi.
The Prophet ﷺ mentioned eating seven Ajwa dates in the morning. Most contemporary health guidance also points to 5–7 dates per day as a reasonable amount, given their natural sugar content. They are nutritionally dense, so a small serving goes a long way.
Genuine Ajwa dates are consistently dark — almost black — with a slightly wrinkled, dry skin and a distinctive soft-yet-firm texture. They are smaller than Medjool dates and have a subtle, earthy sweetness rather than the intense caramel sweetness of some other varieties. Be cautious of any seller offering very cheap 'Ajwa' — the real thing commands a premium price.
Date shops near Masjid an-Nabawi are open year-round, but stocks are freshest and most varied during Ramadan and Hajj season. If you're visiting outside peak season, you'll still find excellent quality — and often better value without the crowds.
Yes — dates are permitted in hand luggage and checked baggage on most airlines. For large quantities, packed boxes are recommended to protect the fruit. Saudi Arabia does not restrict date export. Check your destination country's import rules; most countries allow dried fruits including dates in sealed, commercially packaged form.
Medjool dates are large, plump, and very sweet with a caramel-like flavour — they're often called the 'king of dates' for their size and taste. Ajwa dates are smaller, darker, drier, and have a more complex, slightly spiced flavour. Medjool dates are grown widely across the Middle East and North Africa; Ajwa are native to Madinah.
Updates for pilgrims & visitors
New visiting hours announced for women's Rawdah access during peak season.
Direct shuttle buses now available from King Abdulaziz International Airport to Makkah hotels.
New designated areas for Zamzam water collection at Masjid al-Haram.
Temperatures in Makkah and Madinah expected to drop. Pack light layers.
Updates are for informational purposes. Always verify with official sources.