Saudi Arabia Date Syrup Market Size and Forecast 2025–2033

According to Renub Research, the Saudi Arabia Date Syrup Market is expected to reach US$ 8.38 million by 2033, rising from US$ 4.6 million in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 6.88% (2025–2033). The market’s growth is anchored in the Kingdom’s abundant date production, a centuries-old cultural connection to the fruit, and modern trends favoring organic, functional, and natural sweeteners.

As Saudi consumers embrace healthier, more authentic food choices, date syrup — also known as dibs — is emerging as a kitchen staple and a nutritional powerhouse.

Saudi Arabia Date Syrup Industry Overview

Date syrup is a natural sweetener produced by extracting and condensing juice from ripe dates into a thick, dark syrup. It’s a nutrient-rich alternative to refined sugar, packed with antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins such as potassium, magnesium, and iron.

Traditionally used across the Middle East for bread, desserts, and beverages, date syrup is now finding new life in modern Saudi kitchens and restaurants — in everything from smoothies and energy bars to gourmet sauces and baked goods.

What sets it apart is not just flavor but functionality: it enhances energy, supports digestion, and aligns perfectly with the nation’s growing interest in healthy eating and sustainable local products.

The Saudi government’s focus on agriculture diversification and value-added food production under Vision 2030 has further catalyzed investment in the date syrup segment. As awareness spreads, both domestic consumption and export potential are rising steadily.

Key Market Growth Drivers

1. Rising Health and Wellness Awareness

Saudi Arabia’s consumers are increasingly conscious of diet-related health issues like obesity, diabetes, and fatigue. This awareness has triggered a shift toward nutrient-dense, natural alternatives to refined sugar — and date syrup perfectly fits the bill.

Loaded with natural sugars, fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients, it is being adopted widely in baking, cooking, and beverage preparation.

Families prefer it for children’s meals, while fitness enthusiasts and athletes use it for a quick energy boost. The functional food movement, powered by nutrition education and social media influencers, is further propelling date syrup into mainstream consumption.

By blending traditional nutrition with modern health priorities, date syrup stands as a symbol of balance between heritage and wellness in the Saudi diet.

2. Abundant Local Date Production and Government Support

Saudi Arabia ranks among the world’s largest producers of dates, offering a plentiful and cost-effective raw material base for syrup production. This domestic abundance ensures consistent supply and high-quality output, reducing dependency on imports.

Government initiatives promoting agricultural innovation, food security, and local processing industries are key enablers. Programs that encourage value-added manufacturing — such as converting raw dates into syrup, paste, or powder — support job creation and export diversification.

Furthermore, investments in modern processing facilities and solar-powered plants have improved scalability and shelf life. With technological advancements and a robust agricultural backbone, Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to lead the regional date syrup market.

3. Increasing Culinary Applications and Gourmet Demand

The appeal of date syrup goes beyond traditional use — it has become a culinary trendsetter. From artisanal bakeries and high-end cafes to luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants, chefs are experimenting with date syrup as a natural sweetener and flavor enhancer.

In home kitchens, it’s used for pancakes, yogurt toppings, marinades, smoothies, and desserts, making it a versatile pantry must-have. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok amplify this trend, with food influencers showcasing innovative recipes featuring date syrup.

As a result, the syrup has transformed from a heritage product to a modern gourmet ingredient, bridging generations and cuisines.

Market Challenges

1. Price Sensitivity and Premium Positioning

Despite its advantages, date syrup’s higher price compared to refined sugar poses a challenge, particularly among cost-sensitive consumers. Production, packaging, and preservation add to its premium pricing, which can restrict adoption in lower-income segments.

To sustain growth, manufacturers are exploring affordability strategies, such as introducing smaller packaging sizes, promotional discounts, and blended formulations.

Educational campaigns emphasizing health benefits and nutritional value can help justify the price difference, especially among middle-income families seeking long-term health gains.

2. Storage, Shelf Life, and Awareness Barriers

As a natural product, date syrup requires careful handling to prevent spoilage. Temperature fluctuations and improper storage can affect its quality and shelf life, increasing distribution costs.

Another challenge is limited consumer awareness about its diverse culinary uses and proper storage techniques. Inconsistent labeling and quality across brands can also erode consumer trust.

To overcome this, producers are focusing on clear labeling, standardization, and consumer education through marketing campaigns and collaborations with retail chains.

Regional Market Insights

Dhahran Date Syrup Market

Dhahran, home to affluent professionals and expatriates, represents a premium market for date syrup. Consumers here favor organic and gourmet options for use in high-end cooking, baking, and beverages.

Luxury hotels, corporate catering services, and fine-dining establishments in Dhahran have adopted date syrup as part of their healthy menu offerings. Social media promotions and nutrition-focused workshops are further increasing awareness and demand among the city’s well-informed population.

Riyadh Date Syrup Market

Riyadh, the capital city and commercial hub, remains the largest market for date syrup in Saudi Arabia. Its large population base, high disposable income, and growing health culture are driving sales in both retail and foodservice sectors.

From household use to cafes and bakeries, demand is rising rapidly. Influencer marketing, health fairs, and gourmet expos are playing pivotal roles in positioning date syrup as a mainstream, health-conscious alternative to refined sugar.

Khobar Date Syrup Market

Khobar’s dynamic mix of locals and expatriates makes it another hotspot for premium natural sweeteners. Upscale cafes and patisseries are integrating date syrup into desserts, energy drinks, and sauces.

Proximity to Dhahran ensures a shared consumer base, while supermarkets and specialty stores stock both locally produced and imported brands. Khobar’s reputation as a culinary trend hub supports continuous market expansion.

Jeddah Date Syrup Market

Jeddah’s tourism and hospitality-driven economy creates robust demand for high-quality date syrup. Restaurants, hotels, and bakeries are introducing innovative dishes and beverages featuring date syrup to attract both locals and international visitors.

Its cosmopolitan culture and exposure to global food trends make Jeddah an essential growth center for both domestic and export-oriented date syrup brands.

Recent Developments in the Date Syrup Industry

May 2025: Al Barakah Dates Factory LLC, one of the global leaders in date-based ingredients, expanded production in its solar-powered Dubai facility, processing over 120,000 metric tonnes annually. The company exports to 97+ countries, enhancing supply for international and GCC markets.

August 2023: Agthia Group PJSC, parent company of Al Foah, discussed expansion with a Brazilian government delegation. Their focus on date syrups, pastes, and halwa showcases how date-based products are gaining global “superfood” recognition, extending beyond traditional consumption.

Saudi Arabia Date Syrup Market Segmentation

By Type:

Conventional

Organic

By Application:

Food & Beverage

Nutraceuticals

Cosmetics

Others

By Distribution Channel:

Hypermarkets/Supermarkets

Specialty Stores

Online Sales Channels

Business to Business

By State (Market Share by City):

Dhahran

Riyadh

Khobar

Jeddah

Dammam

Others

Key Companies in the Saudi Arabia Date Syrup Market

Parsunday Symbol Co.

Ario Co.

Al Barakah Dates Factory LLC

Rapunzel Naturkost

Sun Seas Business Group

AL FOAH

Lion Dates

RatinKhosh

Bateel

Just Date

These companies are actively involved in innovation, sustainability, and international expansion, leveraging both modern processing technology and traditional expertise to meet evolving consumer preferences.

Final Thoughts

Saudi Arabia’s date syrup market is more than just a segment of the food industry — it’s a reflection of how the Kingdom is harmonizing tradition with innovation.

With a strong foundation in agriculture, rising health awareness, and increasing culinary creativity, date syrup is poised to become a household essential and a regional export success story.

As more consumers turn away from refined sugar and embrace organic, nutrient-rich alternatives, the humble date — once a symbol of heritage — is now at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s journey toward a healthier, more sustainable future.