Riyadh: In Upper Egypt the traditional craft of sun-drying dates, known as "mustah," is a vital economic activity that takes place during the annual three-month date harvest season, which begins in August. This process provides income for many families involved in harvesting and selling dates.
According to Saudi Press Agency, located in desert and mountainous regions, particularly in the governorates of Aswan and Qena, the mustah facilities are recognizable by their unique setup surrounded by palm fronds. Dates are laid out under the sun for 10 to 15 days, where they are turned every three days to ensure complete drying. Afterward, they are sorted, stored, and fumigated before being sold in local markets or exported.
Egypt is home to 24 million palm trees, of which 20 million are fruitful, producing approximately 2 million tons of dates annually.
Experts emphasize that sun-dried dates offer an affordable and high-energy food source. Proper drying allows these dates, which come in more than 27 varieties, to be stored for over a year, ensuring they are available year-round. This makes them a popular gift and a staple, especially during the month of Ramadan.