A statement from the Government of Dubai Media Office said that His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Crown Prince of Dubai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence directed an AED 1 million grant to support participants in the Dubai Dates festival following the conclusion of its third edition. The allocation recognises palm owners farmers and exhibitors who played a key role in the event and in sustaining the UAE’s agricultural traditions. The grant forms part of Sheikh Hamdan’s ongoing support for the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Centre and initiatives that connect heritage preservation with wider societal benefits.
The media office noted that the funding reflects the date palm’s status as a national symbol rooted in Emirati memory and its place in the relationship between people land and identity. It offers direct backing to those whose efforts helped make the 2026 edition a success while reinforcing the festival’s community message. Organisers presented the Dubai Dates Medal 2026 to two individuals for their contributions to palm heritage during the event.
Abdullah Hamdan bin Dalmook CEO of the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Centre expressed deep gratitude for the directive. Dalmook affirmed that the grant represents recognition for everyone involved in preserving this symbol of national heritage. The centre’s work includes developing programmes that engage younger generations with traditional practices.
The third edition of Dubai Dates ran from July 18 to 26 2026 at Qalaat Al Rimal on the Dubai-Al Ain Road according to the media office. The festival featured 15 competitions and a range of activities that attracted strong public attendance along with visits from officials. New categories introduced this year included two Tamrat Al Bayt competitions for dates cultivated in private homes across Dubai and the wider UAE.
Heritage centre data indicate the event brought together growers government entities and experts to highlight best practices in date cultivation and the diversity of Emirati varieties. The programme also incorporated workshops and family-oriented activities focused on the cultural significance of the date season. Such gatherings support the exchange of agricultural expertise while promoting the sector’s sustainability.
The festival’s conclusion coincided with the launch of fresh date distribution efforts including the second edition of the Kharayef Al Rutab initiative by Dubai’s Community Development Authority. That programme aims to deliver boxes of dates to more than 5 000 families and other beneficiary groups across the emirate in partnership with national farms. The broader activities align with efforts to strengthen food security and maintain the competitiveness of UAE agriculture.
