Al Dhaid Date Festival uses AI in judging for first time

July 28, 2025 / 5:08 PM

Sharjah 24: The Organising Committee of the Al Dhaid Date Festival has, for the first time, introduced artificial intelligence (AI) in judging the “Mazaiena Al Rutab” (Dates Beauty) Contest. This move reflects the Committee’s aim to improve competition standards and ensure greater objectivity in evaluations.

A showcase of agricultural excellence
Organised by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), the festival was held from July 23 to 27 at Expo Al Dhaid. It attracted top date producers, palm farmers from across the UAE, 15 agricultural companies, and various government, private sector, and home-based stakeholders.

First-of-its-kind innovation in the UAE
This is the first time AI has been used in such a context within the UAE, marking a strategic shift toward innovation in the evaluation of agricultural products. The system evaluates quality, size, color, and appearance to enhance transparency and efficiency.

Competitions across diverse categories
Alongside the flagship Mazaiena Al Rutab, the festival included competitions for local lemons, figs, a children’s ‘Rutab Al Kharaif Beauty’ contest, and a women-only date competition—all judged using the new AI system.

Driving agricultural digital transformation
The Committee noted that this AI adoption aligns with the festival’s digital transformation goals. It aims to modernise evaluation mechanisms and support agricultural innovation across the UAE.

Merging heritage with technology
The initiative bridges agricultural heritage with cutting-edge technology, highlighting the UAE’s leadership in palm cultivation and the diversity of its agricultural output.