Saudi Arabia grows more than a million tonnes of dates every year, and there are hundreds of different kinds. The dark-and-sticky Ajwa dates from the city of Medina are the most famous. Golden Sukkari dates are softer and very, very sweet. Khalas dates are firm and chewy. Most homes have a small bowl of dates on the table all the time.
Dates are an important part of every Ramadan evening. After a day of fasting (going without food and drink between sunrise and sunset), Muslims traditionally break their fast at sunset with a single date and a sip of water. After that quick sweet energy, the family sits down to a proper meal.
Dates are also famously good for you. They are full of natural sugar (so they give quick energy) but also fibre, potassium and lots of small minerals. Travellers used to call them 'a meal in your pocket' - a couple of dates and some water could keep you walking for hours.
When you eat a date, the pit inside is rock-hard. Don't bite it! In Saudi Arabia, families collect the pits and sometimes plant them. With enough time, water and patience, a pit can grow into a small date palm that will, in 7 or 8 years, bear fruit of its own.