05-07-2025
As Summer Begins, Bahraini Almonds Make Their Seasonal Comeback
With the arrival of summer and rising temperatures, the much-loved Bahraini almonds are once again appearing on fruit stalls and kitchen tables. Known for their high quality and variety, the local almonds – especially the popular 'Habbān' and 'Jumbo' types – are now in season, bringing fresh activity to the markets.
These almonds began arriving in the markets just a few days ago, with prices ranging between BD2.5 and BD4 per kilogram depending on size and quality. Premium varieties are even fetching prices as high as BD8.
In the coming weeks, two more types – 'Iskandarani' and 'Jumbo' – are expected to arrive. Both are known for their large size, excellent taste, and firm texture. Shoppers are eagerly awaiting their return to the shelves.
Vendor Ahmed Abu Karim explained that Habbān almonds usually kick off the local almond season and are available for about a month. They come in different colors and sizes, such as yellow-within-red and solid red. Prices depend on the size and overall quality – the larger, high-grade almonds can go up to BD7 per kilo, although most are sold between BD2 and BD4.
Abu Karim also noted that the quality and quantity of the crop are heavily influenced by humidity. Higher humidity means better ripening, plumper almonds, and a sweeter taste.
He added that after the Habbān variety, other types begin to appear, especially the Iskandarani almonds – known for their rich red interior and delicious flavor – and the sought-after Jumbo almonds, prized for their size.
Another seller, Qassim Abdullah, pointed out that Habbān almonds are well-known in Bahrain and are named for their small, rounded shape resembling a 'little seed.'
He also mentioned that imported almonds – particularly from Qatif – are becoming more common in local markets and are sold for around BD2 per kilo. However, he believes they can't compare to Bahraini almonds in terms of sweetness and taste. Qassim also warned that some sellers are misleading customers by marketing imported almonds as local ones, which he considers dishonest and unfair.
