The Liwa Date Festival is taking place at the fringe of the Empty Quarter in the UAE
An estimated 2,500 farmers compete for a total of Dh5.2 million in prizes at the festival, with more than 60,000 dates in six varieties up for the judging panel.
It's not just about the traditional fruit which has been cultivated here for 5,000 years. There's competitions for the best mangoes and lemons.
Visitors are encouraged to seminars and workshops and visit model farms and markets.
The festival will continue until July 29, and is open to the public daily from 4pm until 10pm. More info visit www.liwadatesfestival.ae
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