Sukkari Dates in India 2025: Prices, Benefits & How to Buy

Ultimate Guide to Sukkari Dates in India (2025): Top Prices, Benefits & Buying Tips

Introduction: Sukkari dates (from Arabic sukkar, “sugar”) are often called the “Queen of Dates.” Grown in Saudi Arabia’s Al Qassim region, they boast a golden color, melt-in-your-mouth texture and intense caramel-like sweetness. Increasingly popular in India, Sukkari dates are prized as a healthy snack, Ramadan staple, and gift. This guide (updated June 2025) explains everything about Sukkari dates: what they are, how they differ from other dates, current India prices (wholesale and retail), buying tips, and nutrition/health info – all backed by trusted sources.

What Are Sukkari Dates?

Sukkari is a premium date cultivar from Saudi Arabia (Al-Qassim). They come in two forms: fresh rutab (soft and moist) and dried tamr (a bit firmer with crystallized sugars). Fresh Sukkari (rutab) is especially tender and chewy, while dried Sukkari is slightly crisp. These dates are medium-sized (conical), with smooth golden-to-light-brown skin and a rich, honeyed flavor. A well-stored box can last up to two years in a cool, dry place. Premium Sukkari dates are always natural – grown without additives or preservatives – and even come in certified organic varieties. They are sometimes marketed as “Royal Dates” or “Taj Dates” because of their regal color and shape.

Sukkari vs. Medjool Dates: Key Differences

Feature	Sukkari Dates	Medjool Dates
Origin	Saudi Arabia (Al-Qassim)	Morocco/California/Israel, etc.
Size & Shape	Medium, conical	Large (2–3 inches), roundish
Color	Golden to light brown	Dark brown to reddish-brown
Texture	Soft, creamy or slightly crisp	Soft, sticky, velvety
Taste	Rich caramel-like sweetness	Deep caramel-honey sweetness
Price Range	~₹350–600/kg	~₹700–1,800/kg
Shelf Life	Up to 2 years	~1 year

In short, Sukkari dates are smaller and more golden than Medjool. They tend to be sweeter and more economical (often ₹350–600 per kg retail) compared to the larger, more expensive Medjool (₹700+ per kg). Sukkari’s buttery sweetness appeals to many; Medjool’s meaty size and honey notes suit gourmet uses. Either is excellent, but for India’s market Sukkari offers high quality at a lower cost.

Why Sukkari Dates Are So Popular

• Exceptional Flavor: Their natural caramel-like taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture make Sukkari dates a favorite treat for all ages.

• Nutritional Value: Sukkari are rich in dietary fiber, natural sugars, vitamins and minerals – a healthy alternative to processed sweets.

• Cultural Significance: In many Muslim traditions (especially during Ramadan), dates are eaten to break the fast. Sukkari’s sweetness and quality make them a traditional Ramadan staple and popular gift fruit.

• Affordability: Compared to other “luxury” dates, Sukkari are relatively budget-friendly. Indian wholesale buyers find prices as low as ~₹350–400/kg, whereas premium Medjool/Ajwa can run ₹700/kg or more. This makes Sukkari dates especially appealing for bulk purchases and corporate gifting during festivals.

Sukkari Date Prices in India (June 2025)

Prices for Sukkari dates in India vary by seller and quantity:

• Wholesale (Bulk) Rates: In major markets like Mumbai’s APMC Vashi, bulk Sukkari can start around ₹350–₹400 per kg (for minimum 100 kg orders). Some updates list current APMC wholesale around ₹400–₹500/kg, reflecting small fluctuations. In general, ordering 100+ kg yields the lowest prices (often ₹350–450/kg nationwide).

• Retail Prices: In retail (packages from 500g to 3kg), expect ₹400–₹600 per kg. For example, a quality 1kg box sells around ₹400–600, depending on brand. Specialty retailers like Urban Platter price 500g packs at the higher end (~₹750/500g).

• 3 kg Box Deals: 3 kg gift boxes are very popular. Typical market price is about ₹1,000–1,800 per 3kg box. For instance, Safa Dryfruits offers a 3kg Sukkari box for ₹1,000 (discounted from ₹1,400). Deals often emerge during festival season.

• Smaller Packs: 500g packs can be found for around ₹200–300, and 1kg boxes ₹400–600.

• Mumbai-Specific: In Mumbai, retail tends to match the above ranges (₹400–600/kg), but local wholesale at APMC Vashi can drop near ₹350/kg if you buy big.

Sample Price Table: (per kg, June 2025)

Source/Platform	Price (₹/kg)	Pack Size	Notes
APMC Vashi (Mumbai)	350–400	≥100 kg	Wholesale bulk orders
IndiaMart	350–450	Varies	Wholesale supplier rates
Amazon India	400–600	1 kg, 3 kg	Retail packs, deals seasonal
Safa Dryfruits	~333	3 kg	Online sale (₹1,000/3kg)
Urban Platter	500–600	0.5–1 kg	Branded retail packs

How to Buy Sukkari Dates at Mumbai’s APMC Market (Vashi)

For bulk purchases, Mumbai’s APMC Vashi is India’s largest dates market. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

1. Plan Your Visit: APMC Date Market – Sector 19, Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400703. Go early in the morning (6–9 AM) to get the freshest stock and busy trading.

2. Locate Trusted Suppliers: Look for established importers like Hurzuk Enterprise LLP or others known to carry Saudi dates. You can ask local traders or check online forums for vendor recommendations.

3. Inspect Quality: Examine the dates personally. The best Sukkari are golden-glossy, soft (or mildly crisp if dried), and uniform in size. Avoid piles with wrinkled, discolored, or fermenting dates. Most vendors allow you to sample a few.

4. Negotiate Prices: Bulk rates start around ₹350/kg (for 100+ kg). Be polite but firm. In peak harvest (August–October) and outside Ramadan, prices may be lower.

5. Check Certifications: Reputable vendors will have FSSAI certification (required for food imports), and possibly HACCP/ISO marks for export-quality. Ask to see these to ensure quality control.

6. Logistics: Plan transport for your order. Many traders use packaged cartons; you can arrange tempos or courier for city delivery. Ensure airtight, food-grade packaging to keep dates fresh during transit.

Tip: Visit before Ramadan to stock up, or just at its start, when Sukkari is in high demand. However, be aware that demand spikes can slightly raise prices. Check the current daily wholesale rates (some sites update APMC rates) before negotiating.

Buying Sukkari Dates Online

Several online retailers offer Sukkari dates with home delivery:

• IndiaMart: Connects buyers with wholesale suppliers. You can often find bulk deals starting around ₹350/kg. Good for large orders if you are a reseller.

• Amazon India: Offers branded 1kg and 3kg packs. Prices usually range ₹400–600 per kg (e.g. ₹400–600 for 1kg, ₹1,000–1,800 for 3kg). Look for sellers with high ratings and good reviews.

• Safa Dryfruits: Has special packs like a 3kg Sukkari box (₹1,000 during sales). They often include free shipping on larger orders.

• Urban Platter: Sells premium 500g or 1kg packs (e.g. ~₹750 for 500g Saudi Sukkari). Their packaging is retail-friendly for gifts.

• Other Platforms: Kingdom Dates (UAE) ships internationally. You can also try specialty stores (Oman, Middle East groceries) online.

Buying Tips: Compare prices across sites and check for discounts or free delivery offers. Read user reviews (aim for 4+ stars) to ensure freshness. For international buyers (e.g. USA), Amazon India or global grocery sites sometimes ship abroad.

Nutritional Value & Health Benefits

Sukkari dates pack a powerful nutritional punch per 100g, making them a nutrient-dense snack:

• Calories: ~280–360 kcal. Virtually all calories come from carbs.

• Carbohydrates: ~70–83g (of which ~50–65g sugars and 6–8g fiber). The fiber content is significant.

• Fiber: ~6–8g, which aids digestion and promotes regularity.

• Protein: ~2–3g (not a high-protein food, but present in small amounts).

• Fats: Negligible (almost 0g of fat).

• Vitamins/Minerals: High in potassium (often hundreds of mg per 100g) and magnesium, along with small amounts of iron, calcium and B vitamins. For example, one analysis lists about 953 mg potassium and 53.6 mg magnesium per 100g, plus ~1–2 mg iron and trace vitamins. (Sukkari also contains natural antioxidants like carotenoids and flavonoids.)

Because of this profile, Sukkari dates offer various health benefits:

• Digestive Health: The fiber (6–8g per 100g) supports healthy bowel movements and can help prevent constipation.

• Quick Energy: The natural sugars (glucose and fructose) provide a fast-acting energy boost, making them ideal for athletes or to break a fast. Unlike refined sugar, these sugars come with fiber that slows absorption.

• Heart Health: The high potassium and antioxidant content helps regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Consuming dates has been associated with lowering LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and reducing heart disease risk.

• Bone & Muscle Health: Sukkari dates supply magnesium, calcium and other minerals essential for strong bones and muscle function. They also contain small amounts of vitamin K and B vitamins that support metabolism and blood health.

• Weight Management: The fiber promotes satiety, which can help control appetite. Eating a couple of dates as a snack can reduce cravings later. (Remember they are calorie-dense – moderation is key.)

• Antioxidant Protection: Dates are rich in natural antioxidants (flavonoids, polyphenols) that combat oxidative stress and may help reduce inflammation.

• For Diabetes: Although Sukkari dates are sweet, evidence suggests moderate consumption is fine for many people with diabetes. Dates generally have a low-to-moderate glycemic index, meaning they raise blood sugar more slowly than pure glucose. A small study even found no significant adverse effects on blood sugar when diabetics ate dates. Still, diabetics should eat them in moderation (e.g. 1–2 dates per meal) and pair them with proteins or fats to blunt any sugar spike.

• Natural Sugars: Sukkari contains only naturally occurring sugars (no added sugar). This makes them a healthier sweet treat compared to candies or desserts that add refined sugar.

Verdict: Sukkari dates are a highly nutritious, wholesome food (no cholesterol or unhealthy fats). They provide quick energy plus fiber and micronutrients. When eaten in reasonable amounts (2–3 dates per day), they fit well into most healthy diets. Many nutrition experts recommend them as a far better alternative to junk food or sweet pastries.

How to Enjoy Sukkari Dates

Sukkari dates are extremely versatile. Here are tips and serving ideas:

• Eat Plain: Simply pop one or two dates as a quick snack or energy booster. They’re naturally pitted and ready to eat (just rinse under clean water if dusty).

• Stuffed Treats: Cut each date and fill with nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachios) or soft cheese (ricotta, cream cheese). The creamy filling contrasts nicely with the sweet date.

• In Recipes: Chop and add to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal or salads for natural sweetness. Sukkari dates blend well into energy balls or granola bars (see recipe below). They can also be pureed into date syrup or paste.

• Baking: Use Sukkari dates in cakes, breads, or cookies (they act like a natural sugar and binder). They’re excellent in Middle Eastern desserts like stuffed dates, ma’amoul, or babka.

• Serving Tip: Serve dates slightly chilled if you prefer a firmer texture, or at room temperature for maximum softness.

Sukkari Date Energy Balls (Recipe)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pitted Sukkari dates

• ½ cup almonds (or walnuts)

• ¼ cup shredded coconut

• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (or cacao)

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend: In a food processor, pulse the dates until they form a sticky paste.

2. Combine: Add almonds, coconut, cocoa and salt. Pulse until the mixture holds together (a few coarse bits are okay).

3. Form Balls: Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls (about 1 inch each).

4. Chill: Place the balls on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.

5. Enjoy: These no-bake energy balls make a healthy snack or post-workout treat. They keep refrigerated for ~1 week.

Storage:

Store dates in an airtight container. At room temperature (cool, dry place), they stay good for a few weeks. To extend shelf-life, refrigerate them – they can keep up to a year when chilled. For very long-term storage, dates freeze well (place in freezer bags, thaw as needed). Proper storage preserves their texture and sweetness.

Wholesale Buying & Reselling

If you plan to buy in bulk for resale or institutional supply:

• APMC Vashi: As noted, buying 100+ kg reduces the price. Use the steps above at APMC to get the best deals (sometimes as low as ₹350/kg).

• Online B2B: IndiaMart has many Sukkari date suppliers with wholesale pricing starting ~₹350/kg. You can negotiate directly with exporters/importers listed there.

• Imports: Some businesses import direct from Saudi via platforms like Alibaba – prices can be very low (e.g. ~$1.85/kg FOB, not counting shipping). Check quality and certifications carefully if going this route.

• Ramadan Demand: Note that during Ramadan, demand for dates soars worldwide. Prices may rise slightly before and during this period. Wholesale traders often stock up early; plan your purchases 1–2 months in advance if possible.

Tip for Resellers: Buying 100+ kg at ₹350–400/kg and selling at ₹500–600/kg retail can yield ~20–30% profit. Market them online (e.g. Amazon, social media) emphasizing keywords like “Premium Sukkari Dates” or “Ramadan Gifts”. Attractive packaging (500g/1kg boxes) and highlight health benefits to appeal to consumers.

Sukkari Dates & Ramadan

Sukkari dates are a Ramadan staple in Muslim cultures. They’re traditionally eaten to break the fast at sunset, providing instant energy and nutrition after a day of fasting. Their sweetness and symbolism of hospitality make them a popular gift during the month. Because of this, many retailers offer special Ramadan bundles or gift boxes of Sukkari dates. Keep in mind demand spikes in spring (Ramadan) – plan early purchases to avoid shortages or high markups.

FAQs

• Are Sukkari dates good (healthy)?
  Yes. They are delicious and rich in nutrients. Unlike candy, Sukkari provides fiber, vitamins (B-complex, A, C), and minerals (potassium, magnesium) in addition to natural sweetness. When eaten in moderation, they make a healthy snack choice.

• How do Sukkari differ from Ajwa or other Saudi dates?
  Ajwa dates (from Medina) are dark, small, and prized spiritually; they’re also much more expensive (~₹1,000–1,800/kg). Sukkari are larger, golden and much sweeter, with a crisp or creamy texture. Ajwa have a chewy, malty flavor; Sukkari taste more like caramel. For general use and value, Sukkari is an economical superstar, while Ajwa is a specialty item.

• Is it okay to eat Sukkari dates every day?
  Yes, in moderation. Eating 2–3 dates daily can be part of a balanced diet. They do contain ~47–65% sugar by weight, but this is natural fructose and glucose. Their fiber slows sugar absorption. For diabetics, current evidence suggests a few dates can be included in a meal plan thanks to their relatively low glycemic load, but always follow your doctor’s advice.

• Which Sukkari variety is considered best?
  Many connoisseurs prefer fresh Sukkari (rutab) from Al-Qassim for ultimate softness and sweetness. However, top-quality dried Sukkari (tamr) is also excellent. In wholesale markets, you can ask for “Premium Sukkari Rutab” or inquire about the latest Al-Qassim harvest.

• Why do dates cost so much sugar? Are they unhealthy?
  The sugar in dates is 100% natural. They have no added sweeteners. These simple carbs come with fiber and nutrients, which makes dates far healthier than processed sweets. In fact, dates have a low-to-medium glycemic index and their fiber helps prevent blood sugar spikes. In short: dates are sweet, but not the same as eating candy.

• What does a 1 kg box of Sukkari contain?
  Usually 1 kg of dates means 15–20 pieces, depending on size. A well-packed 1kg box typically contains carefully graded, premium Sukkari fruit (pitted and packed in layers). Always check packaging date and storage conditions.

• Are Saudi Sukkari dates better than Iranian or other saffas?
  Sukkari is specifically a Saudi cultivar (Al-Qassim). There are similar “golden” dates elsewhere (like Iranian “Mazafati” or Tunisian “Deglet Noor”), but Sukkari is famous for its ultra-sweet, buttery profile. Many buyers say authentic Saudi Sukkari (especially fresh rutab) have no real equal in taste.

• Where can I find deals on Sukkari dates?
  For bulk buyers, the best deals are at Mumbai’s APMC Vashi market. Online, compare sellers on Amazon India, IndiaMart, and sites like Safa Dryfruits. Exporters sometimes sell excess stock at discount. Watch for off-season sales (non-Ramadan) or combo offers (e.g. 3kg boxes).

Conclusion

Sukkari dates combine indulgent sweetness with serious nutrition, earning them the title “Queen of Dates.” In India today, they are prized for breaking fasts, healthy snacking, and gift-giving—without the high cost of Medjool or Ajwa. Armed with this guide, you can confidently pick, buy, and enjoy Sukkari dates: whether by the kilo at Mumbai’s APMC market, from online retailers (IndiaMart, Amazon), or in retail packs at your local grocery. Savor their golden caramel flavor and make the most of their health benefits.

Ready to buy? Check current APMC wholesale rates or visit online marketplaces for the latest deals. For expert-sourced, bulk-quality Sukkari dates, consider reputed suppliers in Mumbai’s Khajoor market or certified brands like Safa Dryfruits and Urban Platter. Taste the sweetness of Sukkari dates today!