When it comes to premium quality dates, Iran stands as one of the world’s most important producers and exporters. With over 400 varieties of dates, the country offers a unique range of options—from moist and luxurious Mazafati to long-shelf-life varieties like Zahedi. For importers, wholesalers, and retailers, the challenge is not availability but choosing the right Iranian date type that best suits their target market.

This guide will help you explore the most popular Iranian date varieties, their characteristics, and how to align them with the preferences of consumers across different regions.

Popular Iranian Date Varieties and Their Market Fit

1. Mazafati Dates (The Fresh & Juicy Choice)

•    Moisture Content: 15–35%

•    Shelf Life: 6–12 months (requires cold storage)

•    Best Markets: Europe, North America, Gulf States

•    Consumer Appeal: Mazafati dates are dark, soft, and naturally sweet, making them ideal for premium retail packaging. They are especially popular during Ramadan due to their rich flavor and high energy content.

If your market values luxury, freshness, and indulgence, Mazafati is the right choice.

2. Piarom Dates (The Slim & Premium Option)

•    Moisture Content: 15–20%

•    Shelf Life: 12–18 months

•    Best Markets: Europe, East Asia, High-end specialty stores

•    Consumer Appeal: Often called the “chocolate date” for its unique taste, Piarom is semi-dry and considered one of the most luxurious date types in Iran.

Perfect for health-conscious and gourmet markets where premium pricing is accepted.

3. Zahedi Dates (The Affordable Bulk Variety)

•    Moisture Content: 12–18%

•    Shelf Life: 18–24 months

•    Best Markets: South Asia, Africa, industrial buyers

•    Consumer Appeal: Known for their dry texture and long shelf life, Zahedi dates are widely used for bulk consumption, food processing, and baking industries.

A practical choice for markets focused on affordability and versatility.

4. Kabkab Dates (The Sweet & Syrupy Option)

•    Moisture Content: 18–25%

•    Shelf Life: 12–18 months

•    Best Markets: Middle East, North Africa

•    Consumer Appeal: Kabkab dates are juicy, sticky, and sweet, making them excellent for industrial uses like syrup production as well as direct retail.

Recommended for markets where consumers prefer very sweet and soft textures.

5. Sayer Dates (The Export Champion)

•    Moisture Content: 15–18%

•    Shelf Life: 12–24 months

•    Best Markets: EU, USA, India, Russia

•    Consumer Appeal: Sayer dates account for over 40% of Iran’s date exports, thanks to their balance of taste, texture, and durability. They are semi-dry and suitable for both wholesale and retail packaging.

The best choice for importers looking for a balance between quality, price, and scalability.

Matching Dates with Market Preferences

To choose the right Iranian date type, exporters and importers must consider:

1.   Cultural Preferences

o    Middle Eastern consumers often prefer moist and syrupy dates like Mazafati and Kabkab.

o    European and North American markets lean towards semi-dry or gourmet varieties like Piarom and Sayer.

2.   Retail vs. Industrial Use

o    Retailers → Premium, well-packaged Mazafati, Piarom, or Sayer.

o    Food Industry → Zahedi and Kabkab, thanks to cost-effectiveness and long shelf life.

3.   Storage & Shipping Conditions

o    Cold-chain infrastructure available? → Mazafati and Kabkab are suitable.

o    No cold chain? → Go for Zahedi, Piarom, or Sayer.

4.   Price Sensitivity

o    Price-sensitive markets → Zahedi and Kabkab.

o    Premium markets → Piarom and Mazafati.

Packaging Options to Enhance Market Fit

•    Luxury Packaging → For Piarom and Mazafati targeting Europe & Gulf markets.

•    Bulk Cartons → For Zahedi and Kabkab exports to Africa and Asia.

•    Retail-Friendly Pouches → For Sayer and Piarom in supermarkets worldwide.

Proper packaging not only protects dates but also boosts consumer appeal and matches cultural buying behaviors.

Case Studies – Matching Dates to Markets

•    Germany & France → Prefer semi-dry dates like Piarom & Sayer for retail.

•    India & Pakistan → High demand for Zahedi & Sayer due to bulk imports.

•    UAE & Saudi Arabia → Luxury Mazafati & Kabkab are highly sought after, especially during Ramadan.

•    USA & Canada → Both retail (Mazafati) and industrial (Sayer) demand is strong.

Key Takeaways for Importers & Exporters

•    Mazafati & Piarom → Best for premium and gourmet markets.

•    Zahedi & Kabkab → Ideal for bulk and industrial use.

•    Sayer → A versatile option suitable for most global markets.

By carefully evaluating your target audience’s preferences, infrastructure, and price points, you can confidently choose the right Iranian date type and maximize profitability.

Final Thoughts

The success of importing and exporting Iranian dates depends on aligning the right variety with the right market. From luxurious Mazafati and Piarom to versatile Sayer and bulk-friendly Zahedi, each date type has its unique advantages.

At Tamila Agrifood, we help global buyers navigate these options and provide tailored solutions—whether you’re supplying supermarkets, food manufacturers, or premium retailers. With our expertise in logistics, quality control, and certifications, your business can confidently tap into the growing demand for Iranian dates worldwide.

Email:  tamilaagrifood@gmail.com

WhatsApp for Inquiries:  +989141858935