Dibba Al Hisn Municipality launches “Jood Al Saaf” initiative

A Tradition Aligned with the Date Season

The “Jood Al Saaf” initiative comes in conjunction with the start of the date season, which is warmly anticipated by UAE citizens as it signals the arrival of summer. For many, especially senior citizens, this season evokes memories and stories from a past deeply intertwined with the land and its traditions.

Community Appreciation and Cultural Identity

The initiative was met with great appreciation from local dignitaries and heads of government departments and institutions in the city. It reinforces Emirati cultural identity, as dates are considered an essential part of the UAE’s agricultural heritage.

Diverse Date Varieties and Productive Palm Groves

Dibba Al Hisn Municipality oversees approximately 800 palm trees spread across various parts of the city. This season, the harvest included abundant yields from over five different varieties of rutab, most notably Naghal and Khneizi.

Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security

Khadija Najib, Director of the Agriculture Department at the municipality, stated: “This diversity in harvest significantly contributes to local self-sufficiency in dates during the season. The annual expansion of palm cultivation is a key pillar of the city’s agricultural sustainability plans, especially in the face of environmental challenges and climate change. Palm trees help maintain ecological balance, preserve soil, and lower temperatures in agricultural zones, thereby enhancing the city’s resilience and supporting long-term food security.”

Advanced Agricultural Practices

She added that the Agriculture Department has implemented advanced systems to care for the palm trees, including scheduled fertilisation, irrigation, and environmental analysis programmes in cooperation with specialized entities. Scientific studies have been conducted to assess soil and water quality, and crop testing ensures safety and top-tier quality. These integrated scientific plans aim to optimise agricultural returns and ensure sustainable growth in the sector.

Strengthening Community Bonds and Heritage

His Excellency Talib Abdullah Al Yahyai, Director of Dibba Al Hisn Municipality, emphasised the municipality’s commitment to organising this initiative annually, saying: “This initiative enhances social connection in the city and reinforces the values and traditions passed down from our ancestors. It also helps raise awareness about the importance of agricultural heritage, as the date season symbolises blessing and Emirati generosity.”

Successful Season Backed by Agricultural Efforts

Al Yahyai noted that this year’s date season saw plentiful yields thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Agriculture Department in caring for palm trees and green spaces throughout the city. These efforts have contributed to the success of agricultural plans and resulted in a productive season.

Embracing Tradition Across Generations

He also pointed out that “Jood Al Saaf” received a warm response from the residents of the city due to its strong ties to local heritage and folklore, which continue to be passed down through generations. Welcoming the summer season with joy and the symbolism it carries remains a cherished Emirati custom.

A Strategic Sector in National Food Security

The palm cultivation sector in the UAE is considered a vital component of the country’s food security system. The UAE has given this sector great importance through initiatives and programmes aimed at protecting palm trees from harmful pests and adopting modern techniques to improve the quality and variety of dates, with the ultimate goal of producing top-grade fruits.