Saudi dates are heading to Paris as the National Center for Palms and Dates brings more than 19 Saudi date companies, together with the International Dates Council, to SIAL Paris 2026, running from October 17 to 21. The aim is to widen the reach of Saudi dates and date products abroad and lift export value in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

SIAL, one of Europe's largest international food and beverage fairs, gathers over 7,500 exhibitors from 135 countries. The center wants to help Saudi firms break into new markets and build ties with importers, distributors, retailers and food manufacturers.

The center said the trip builds on the sector's recent record. According to International Trade Centre data, Saudi Arabia ranked first in the world for date exports by value for the fourth year running, with exports worth about SAR 1.938 billion in 2025, up 14.3% on 2024.

At the Saudi pavilion, visitors can discover the variety and quality of the Kingdom's dates and processed date products. Interactive activities include tastings that show how dates can be used in new dishes and recipes suited to consumers in international markets.

The center said its presence supports the export system, links farmers, marketers and exporters more closely and develops the sector's value chain. It also expects the fair to boost Saudi date exports to France, open doors in other European markets and create trade and investment partnerships.