Quick answer: Medjool dates are generally traced back to Morocco. Palm cuttings were taken to the United States in the 1920s, and today Medjool is grown in many warm, dry regions, including Palestine's Jordan Valley (Jericho), Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Morocco and California.
Last updated: 14 November 2026
Origin of the Medjool date
Medjool (also written Medjoul, Majdoul or Mejhoul) is a variety of date palm, Phoenix dactylifera. It is commonly said to have originated in the Tafilalet oasis region of Morocco. The name is often linked to an Arabic word meaning 'unknown', though accounts differ. In the 1920s offshoots were sent to the United States, which is why California is now a large producer.
Where Medjool dates are grown today
- Palestine: the Jordan Valley around Jericho, source of Tamooriya's Palestinian Medjool dates.
- Jordan and Saudi Arabia: large Medjool plantations. Read Saudi dates vs other Middle Eastern dates.
- Morocco and North Africa: the traditional home of the variety.
- United States and elsewhere: California and Arizona, plus other warm regions such as southern Africa and Australia.
Taste and size depend on the farm, climate and harvest more than on the country alone.
Medjool date season
In the Northern Hemisphere, Medjool dates are harvested roughly from late summer into autumn, depending on the region and weather. After harvest they are graded and cold-stored so that they stay soft through the year. Tamooriya stocks 2026 harvest Medjool kept below 5°C.
Date palm facts
The date palm needs hot, dry weather and plenty of water at the roots. A mature Medjool palm can produce many kilograms of fruit each year and bunches are often thinned and hand-picked.
How to check the origin when you buy
- Ask where the dates were grown and in which season.
- Check how they are stored. Cold storage keeps them soft.
- See our guide on how to choose high quality Medjool dates.
To buy in the UAE, see where to buy Medjool dates in Dubai.
Frequently asked questions
Where are Medjool dates from?
They are commonly traced to Morocco and are now grown in Palestine, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the USA and other warm regions.
Where are Medjool dates grown?
In hot, dry regions with irrigation, including the Jordan Valley, the Arabian Peninsula, North Africa and California.
What is the Medjool date season?
Roughly late summer to autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, with cold-stored fruit sold all year.
Are Medjool dates from Saudi Arabia?
Medjool is grown in Saudi Arabia, but the variety is not exclusive to it.
