Bahrain to Host World’s First International Date Observatory

Bahrain is set to take the global spotlight in agriculture and food security with the launch of the world’s first International Date Observatory, a pioneering initiative that will make the Kingdom a hub for data, research, and trade insights on the date sector.

The Shura Council on Monday approved a draft law ratifying the agreement between Bahrain and the International Date Council, officially designating the Kingdom as the permanent home of the observatory.

Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak said the observatory will collect, analyse, and publish data on date production and markets worldwide. “All data will be collected on the ground here in Bahrain, giving the Kingdom global exposure,” he said.

The observatory is the first of its kind in the world, offering a centralised hub for date-related research, trade analysis, and policy guidance. Its unique structure, initially government-led but designed to later include private-sector partnerships, sets a global benchmark for combining agriculture, sustainability, and innovation.

Initially government-led, the observatory will later invite the private sector to partner in its development, supporting the growth and long-term sustainability of the date and palm industry. “Bahrain has the resources and expertise to enhance and grow this sector, positioning it strongly on the regional and international stage,” Minister Al Mubarak added.

The minister also highlighted that the launch aligns with Bahrain’s National Tree-Planting Plan, initiated by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister in 2022, which aims to double the Kingdom’s date palm trees by 2035. Under the plan, Bahrain has already exceeded environmental targets, planting 1.6 million mangrove trees and nearly 600,000 other trees in open spaces and along roads, supporting both agriculture and environmental sustainability.

“These achievements reflect Bahrain’s dedication to food security, sustainable agriculture, and environmental stewardship,” the minister said, underlining the Kingdom’s ambition to lead in both innovation and green development in the region.