On today's episode of Eyes On, we celebrate a decade of dates, heritage, and homegrown pride. The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) has finalised preparations for the 10th edition of the Al Dhaid Date Festival, running from 23rd to 26th July at Expo Al Dhaid, with extensive participation from palm farmers and leading date producers across the UAE.
Over ten years, the festival has grown into one of Sharjah's most important economic, heritage, and agricultural events — promoting best farming practices, supporting farmers in improving crop quality, and advancing the emirate's broader goals of food security and sustainable agricultural growth. This year's edition brings an expanded programme of competitions with valuable prizes, from the "Ratb Beauty" Contest across the Khneizi, Khalas, and Shishi varieties to elite Dhaid date categories, plus new contests for children and a "Most Beautiful Home-grown Dates" competition for women, alongside red fig and local lemon categories. Complementing the contests is a full schedule of cultural and heritage activities, advisory workshops, and expert-led seminars on modern farming and palm tree care.
We hear from Mohammad Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of SCCI, on how reaching the 10th edition marks a strategic milestone, how the festival has become a trusted platform for farmers and researchers, and how enhanced judging standards and broader participation are strengthening Al Dhaid's position as an integrated economic and heritage destination.
Tune in as we explore ten years of the Al Dhaid Date Festival — with competitions running daily from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM and winners honoured after Maghrib prayer.
==
Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on your radio (95.00 FM) or online on our website: www.pulse95radio.com
Follow us on Social. www.facebook.com/pulse95radio www.twitter.com/pulse95radio