Saudi Arabia Launches World’s First Date-Based Soft Drink ‘Milaaf Cola’

Riyadh — Saudi Arabia has made history in the global beverages industry by introducing the world’s first soft drink made entirely from dates. Dubbed “Milaaf Cola,” the innovative drink was unveiled at the Riyadh Date Festival, drawing widespread attention and enthusiasm from attendees.
The product has been developed by Turath Al-Madinah, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), as part of a broader push to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and promote locally produced goods.
According to the company, Milaaf Cola contains no added sugar — instead, it derives its sweetness entirely from natural date extracts, positioning it as a healthier alternative to conventional carbonated drinks that are typically loaded with refined sugars and artificial additives.
The launch is closely aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious reform agenda aimed at reducing oil dependency and fostering growth across non-oil sectors including food, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Officials have indicated that production will be scaled up in the near future, with plans to introduce a wider range of date-based beverages to regional and international markets, potentially reshaping how the world views this ancient Middle Eastern fruit.