The ‘6th Fresh Local Dates Festival 2021’ will start next week and last for two weeks in Souq Waqif. About 80 farms are lined up to participate in the festival.
The festival aims to develop the agricultural sector through palm tree farms and supporting local farmers to produce varieties of quality dates.
Speaking to The Peninsula, Ahmed A Yafei, Head of The Department of Agricultural Guidance and Services, Department of Agricultural Affairs of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment, said: “This edition will be distinguished and will witness a large production, considering there was no event last year in Souq Waqif.”
Regarding prices, he said that the costs would be acceptable and suitable for all visitors. He noted that the festival would be open in the evenings from 4pm to 10pm due to the summer weather.
The festival is part of a major programme of the MME to provide platforms to market local produce during their harvesting season.
The Organizing Committee of the festival has set requirements for the dates offered for sale, including that the fresh dates showcased in the festival should be in the ripening stage and free from any odour. In addition, the dates should have a natural taste and smell.
Different types of fresh local dates will be offered during the festival at very attractive prices, including Khalas, Al Shishi, Al Khanizi, Barhi, Iraqi, Silji, Sufri, Nabt Saif, Al Sawafi, and Khurdi. The local Rutab (Fresh Local Dates) is characterised by distinct production and marketing capabilities that contribute to its freshness and high quality, making it preferable to consumers compared to other varieties.
In a bid to support the local farmers, Souq Waqif is keen to participate in such a festival. It attracts many visitors, including citizens, expatriates, and tourists, due to its strategic location in central Doha.
Last year, the MME held the festival in cooperation with Al Meera Consumer Goods Company at Al Meera’s Hayat Plaza branch.
