Best Types of Dates: Sukkari vs Medjool vs Ajwa

If you’ve recently fallen down the rabbit hole of date varieties, you’re not alone. From the soft, honey-like sweetness of Sukkari to the rich, chewy texture of Medjool, and the cultural significance of Ajwa, there’s a lot more to dates than meets the eye.

In this guide, we’ll compare the most popular types—Sukkari, Medjool, and Ajwa—by taste, texture, calories, and health benefits. We’ll also touch on other well-known varieties like Zamli and Deglet Noor, so you can confidently choose the perfect date for your snacks, smoothies, or even Ramadan traditions.

Whether you’re here to find your next go-to sweet treat or deepen your date knowledge, you’re in the right place.

Sukkari Dates vs Medjool Dates: Taste & Texture

Let’s start with the fun part—flavor. While both varieties are naturally sweet and delicious, Sukkari and Medjool dates offer very different eating experiences.

What Do Sukkari Dates Taste Like?

Sukkari dates are incredibly soft—melt-in-your-mouth sweet with a light, honeyed flavor. They’re so tender they barely need chewing, and some say they taste like caramel-coated fruit with a buttery finish.

Flavor Profile of Medjool Dates

Medjools are often described as nature’s fudge. They offer a rich, deep sweetness with notes of caramel and brown sugar, along with a satisfyingly chewy texture. Their size and density make them feel more substantial as a snack.

Key Differences in Softness, Skin, and Sweetness

Sukkari dates are ultra-soft, with thin, almost translucent skin. Medjool dates have thicker skin, a firmer bite, and a more robust texture. If you prefer something less sticky and more structured, our Fancy Tight-Skinned Medjool Dates offer a delicious contrast to Sukkari’s silky sweetness.

Sukkari Dates & Medjool Dates Nutrition

Here’s how the two compare, gram for gram, using a standard 40g serving (about one large Medjool date).

Nutrition Comparison (per 40g serving)

Sukkari values are estimated from a 30g serving and adjusted for 40g comparison.

Takeaway

Sukkari dates contain slightly more fiber and protein per gram, making them ideal for digestion. Medjools, on the other hand, deliver more potassium and deeper mineral content, making them better for energy, athletic use, or nutrient support.

Sukkari Dates & Medjool Dates Calories Per Serving

Both varieties are naturally sweet, but they differ slightly in calorie density.

Calorie Count Per Piece and Per 100g

Medjool Dates
One large Medjool (40g): 112 calories
Per 100g: 280 calories

Sukkari Dates
One Sukkari (~10g): 30 calories
Three Sukkari (30g): 90 calories
Per 100g: 300 calories

👉 Sukkari dates are lower per piece, but have a slightly higher calorie density by weight.

Which One Is Better for Low-Calorie Diets?

If you’re watching portion sizes, Sukkari dates are easier to manage. Their smaller size and intense sweetness make them satisfying in fewer bites. Medjools offer more fiber and minerals per piece, which can support fullness with less quantity.

Satiety and Energy Boost: Which Lasts Longer?

Medjool dates offer longer-lasting energy, thanks to their higher fiber and mineral profile. They’re a great pre-workout snack or afternoon pick-me-up. Sukkari dates are quicker to digest, offering a faster but shorter energy boost.

Sukkari Dates vs Medjool vs Ajwa (and Zamli)

Once you start exploring the world of dates, you'll find more than just Sukkari and Medjool. Ajwa and Zamli are also growing in popularity—especially among those seeking unique flavor profiles or cultural traditions.

Ajwa Dates – Flavor, Cultural Significance, and Texture

Ajwa dates are small, dark, and mildly sweet, with a soft texture and subtle flavor. They hold deep cultural and spiritual value, especially during Ramadan, and are known for their high antioxidant content. They're less sugary than Sukkari or Medjool, making them a popular choice for those seeking a lower-sugar option with historical significance.

Zamli Dates – Are They Different or Just a Label?

“Zamli” is often used as a label for premium Saudi varieties, especially high-grade Sukkari or Khalas dates. While the name may vary, these dates are typically light in color, very soft, and intensely sweet. Think of “Zamli” as more of a branding term than a distinct cultivar.

Which Type of Date Should You Choose?

Choose Sukkari for a soft, honey-sweet date that melts in your mouth. 

Opt for Medjool if you love a rich, chewy texture with deep caramel flavor—especially varieties like our Fancy Tight-Skinned Medjool Dates.

Try Ajwa if you’re looking for something traditional, antioxidant-rich, and lower in sugar.

👉 Not sure where to start? Explore our full Premium Medjool Dates Collection and taste the difference for yourself.

FAQs 

Are Deglet vs Medjool Dates Better?

Medjool dates are larger, softer, and much sweeter than Deglet Noor, which are firmer and milder. If you want a rich, chewy snack, go with Fancy Medjool Dates; Deglet is better for cooking or light snacking.

Are Sukkari Dates Healthy?

Yes! Sukkari dates are rich in natural sugars, fiber, and minerals like potassium and iron. They’re soft, easy to digest, and best enjoyed in moderation—about 2–4 per day for most people.

What Dates Are Better Than Medjool Dates?

It depends on your taste and goals. Sukkari is softer and sweeter, Ajwa is lower in sugar and culturally significant. But for flavor, size, and versatility, Soft Rhutab Medjool Dates are a fan favorite.

What Is the Other Name for Sukkari Dates?

Sukkari dates are often referred to as "Royal dates" or simply "Saudi dates", especially in Gulf regions. Their golden color and soft texture make them a popular staple in Middle Eastern households.

Conclusion

Each type of date brings something unique to the table. Sukkari is perfect if you love a soft, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. Medjool offers rich flavor, more fiber, and essential minerals—making it ideal for snacking, gifting, or adding to your wellness routine.

Still torn between the two most popular varieties? Our Sukkari vs Medjool comparison guide breaks it down by use case—whether you're snacking, baking, or gifting.

Or contact us anytime for help choosing the perfect fit. We're happy to guide you.