Have you ever wondered why dates are considered the jewels of the desert in Abu Dhabi? These sweet, nutrient-rich fruits have been a staple in Emirati culture for centuries, symbolizing hospitality and tradition. Alongside dates, local sweets like baklava, kunafa, and maamoul offer a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, exploring the best spots to purchase these delights can be both a gastronomic and cultural journey. Let’s delve into some of the top places in Abu Dhabi where you can find the finest dates and traditional sweets.
MINA DATE MARKET
A Traditional Market Experience
Located near the Mina Zayed Port, the Mina Date Market is a bustling hub where you can find a wide variety of dates, from Medjool to Khalas. Vendors often offer free samples, allowing you to taste before you buy. The market’s atmosphere provides an authentic Emirati shopping experience.
ZADINA
Gourmet Dates and Chocolates
Zadina offers a luxurious selection of dates, often stuffed with nuts or coated in chocolate. Their products are beautifully packaged, making them ideal for gifts. Zadina emphasizes quality and tradition in every bite.
AL DAR SWEETS
Traditional Arabic Confections
Al Dar Sweets is renowned for its wide range of Arabic desserts, including baklava, maamoul, and kunafa. Their sweets are crafted using traditional recipes, ensuring authentic flavors that resonate with both locals and visitors.
AL SULTAN SWEETS
A Taste of Levantine Delights
Al Sultan Sweets specializes in Levantine desserts, offering treats like pistachio-filled baklava and semolina-based maamoul. Their commitment to quality and authenticity has made them a favorite among sweet enthusiasts.
FNP.AE
Online Gifting of Arabic Sweets
FNP.ae is an online platform offering a curated selection of Arabic sweets, including baklava, maamoul, and stuffed dates. Their services are ideal for those looking to send gifts across the UAE, combining convenience with quality.

WORLD GOLDEN FRUIT EST
Affordable Dates and Dry Fruits
World Golden Fruit EST offers a variety of dates and dry fruits at reasonable prices. They are known for providing free samples, allowing customers to try before purchasing. It’s a great spot for bulk buying or finding unique date varieties.
THE DATE ROOM
Premium Date Shopping Experience
The Date Room provides a serene shopping environment with an array of date varieties. They focus on a tree-to-table ethos, ensuring traceability and quality in their products. Their offerings include gourmet dates and date-based products.
MITHAIWAALAS
Indian Sweets with Authentic Flavors
Mithaiwaalas brings the rich tradition of Indian sweets to Abu Dhabi, offering delicacies like rasgulla, kaju katli, and ghevar. Their sweets are made using authentic recipes, providing a taste of India in the heart of the UAE.
AL AQSSA SWEETS
Palestinian Sweet Specialties
Al Aqssa Sweets offers a variety of Palestinian desserts, including knafeh and qatayef. Their sweets are known for their rich flavors and traditional preparation methods, making them a go-to destination for those seeking authentic Palestinian confections.
KA’AK BLADNA SWEETS
Lebanese Pastries and More
Ka’ak Bladna Sweets specializes in Lebanese pastries, offering treats like ka’ak, baklava, and maamoul. Their commitment to traditional baking techniques ensures a genuine taste of Lebanon in every bite.
Exploring these destinations offers not only a chance to indulge in Abu Dhabi’s sweet offerings but also provides insight into the city’s rich cultural tapestry. As the editor of www.few.ae notes, “Discovering the flavors of Abu Dhabi is akin to embarking on a journey through its history and traditions.” Whether you’re seeking the perfect gift or simply wish to treat yourself, these spots ensure a delightful experience.