Every Date Type Has a Unique Character
The world of dates is far more diverse than many imagine. There are over 20 varieties circulating in the Indonesian market, each with a different flavor, texture and origin. Understanding these differences helps you buy the cheap dates that best fit your needs, whether for daily snacking, iftar, gifts or wholesale. Let us explore the six most popular types.
1. Sukari Al-Qassim - The King of Dates
From the Al-Qassim region of Saudi Arabia, Sukari is Indonesia's best-selling variety. It tastes softly sweet like caramel with a touch of honey, with a buttery, slightly moist texture. Available in Grade A, AA and AAA at Rp60,000-95,000/kg. Suitable for all ages and a gift favorite.
2. Mazafati Bam - The King of Fresh Dates
Mazafati from Bam, Kerman Province, Iran, is a fresh date with 32-35 percent moisture. It is glossy deep black, melt-in-mouth soft, and caramel-sweet. Price range Rp50,000-70,000/kg. Being moist, it is best stored cool.
3. Khalas - Butter Caramel
Khalas originates from Al-Ahsa, the world's largest oasis in Saudi Arabia (also grown in the UAE). It tastes like butter caramel with honey undertones, with a soft, balanced texture. Price range Rp49,999-59,000/kg. A versatile choice for all ages.
4. Egyptian Dates - The Most Economical
Egypt is the world's largest date producer, with around 1.9 million tons in 2023. Egyptian Dates are richly sweet, chewy and the most affordable from Rp30,000/kg. Ideal for bulk, iftar and wholesale.
5. Tunisian Deglet Noor - The Queen of Dates
Tunisia holds roughly 50 percent of the world's Deglet Noor palm trees. Deglet Noor is translucent golden, semi-dry, with a honey taste and a low glycemic index (~42). Price range Rp79,000-85,000/kg. A value-premium choice that stores well.
6. Safawi Madinah - Premium with Islamic Significance
Safawi from Madinah is a premium black date with a dense texture and gentle sweetness. It is often associated with Islamic significance because it comes from the holy city. Price range Rp90,000-130,000/kg. Available in 1kg packs and 5kg cartons.
Quick Comparison Table
| Type | Origin | Texture | Price/kg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sukari | Al-Qassim, Saudi | Buttery semi-moist | Rp60-95k |
| Mazafati | Bam, Iran | Moist, melting | Rp50-70k |
| Khalas | Al-Ahsa, Saudi/UAE | Soft, balanced | Rp50-59k |
| Egyptian | Egypt | Chewy semi-dry | Rp30-45k |
| Deglet Noor | Tunisia | Chewy semi-dry | Rp79-85k |
| Safawi | Madinah, Saudi | Dense | Rp90-130k |
Which One Is Right for You?
For tight budgets and bulk volume, choose Egyptian Dates. For a soft fresh-date experience, choose Mazafati. For a premium taste that is still affordable, Khalas or Sukari Grade A. For gifts, Sukari AAA or Safawi. Whatever you choose, we stock them all at transparent prices, shipped from our Cakung warehouse across Greater Jakarta.
