Date palms emerge across the landscapes of Saudi Arabia, sprouting sacred fruit, creating the ideal oasis. The palm offers shelter and sustenance and is held in high esteem in the region. Dates are referenced throughout the Qur’an and some consider the palm as the tree of life and power. Harvesters in Saudi Arabia have honed their skills over the centuries ensuring the best product. Saudi Arabia is home to the world’s largest date palm oasis which is also a UNESCO’s Heritage site. A great pride of the country, dates are also the perfect coffee accompaniment.

Saudi Dates: A Portrait of the Sacred Fruit explores the many facets of this important fruit and its unique beauty. Original photography by Oliver Pilcher and illustrations by Rafael Alterio are supplemented by images by Ayoub Alsuhaibani. Created in collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ministry of Culture, this title is the latest addition to the Saudi Arabia series, inviting readers to experience the many wonders of the nation.

Mohammed Bin Ismail Al-Ismail is Head of King Abdullah international city for dates. He is also a researcher and a specialist in palm trees and dates farming and production.

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