Comparative Analysis of Sultan Tea and Dahmiss Tea
by
Artossi Contact
28 Dec 2025
Introduction to Moroccan Tea CultureMoroccan tea, known as atay or thé à la menthe, is far more than a simple beverage—it's a cornerstone of hospitality, social life, and national identity. Introduced to Morocco in the 18th-19th centuries (largely via British trade routes), green tea from China quickly became the base for the iconic sweet, mint-infused drink served in ornate silver teapots and poured from great heights to create a frothy head. Today, Morocco is the world's largest importer of green tea (primarily Chinese gunpowder or chunmee varieties), consuming around 2 kg per person annually. With over 400 brands on the market, competition is fierce, but a few stand out as true icons. Among them, Sultan Tea and Dahmiss Tea represent two pillars of Moroccan tea heritage: one a modern market leader with global ambitions, the other a respected traditional favorite, especially in the south.Both brands import premium Chinese green tea leaves, blend them according to regional Moroccan recipes, and emphasize quality, aroma, and authenticity. Let's dive into a detailed comparison.Brand Histories and BackgroundsSultan Tea (founded as Al Arche in 1936 by Hadj Hassan Raji) is a family-owned pioneer that evolved into Morocco's benchmark brand. After liberalization in the 1990s, it was relaunched under the Damandis Group (now part of Mido Food) and has grown into the market leader with around 30% share in some periods. With over 85 years of expertise, Sultan operates one of the world's largest green tea factories, producing thousands of tons annually. It emphasizes innovation, blending traditional recipes with modern wellness-focused lines (herbal infusions, health teas).Dahmiss Tea (established around 1958, under the Somathes group—now part of Holmarcom) is a venerable name synonymous with high-quality, traditional Moroccan tea. The name "Dahmiss" evokes "twilight" in Hassani dialect, reflecting its deep roots in southern Moroccan culture. Known for its fine, twisted filaments, Dahmiss has long been a staple in households and gained renewed attention in recent years (e.g., through sports sponsorships). It's prized for purity and is often associated with premium codes like 41022, indicating top-tier leaf quality.Both brands trace their success to Morocco's massive imports of Chinese green tea (gunpowder and chunmee types), which they carefully select, blend, and package locally.Product Range and Key Offerings
Sultan offers broader variety, appealing to younger consumers and international markets with modern twists. Dahmiss sticks closer to tradition, excelling in the pure, robust base ideal for classic atay.Quality, Taste, and Consumer PreferencesBoth use high-grade Chinese imports, but differences shine in preparation and perception:
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Aspect
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Sultan Tea
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Dahmiss Tea
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|---|---|---|
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Core Base
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Chinese green tea (gunpowder, chunmee, filaments)
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Chinese green tea (premium filaments, e.g., 41022)
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Signature Products
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Moroccan mint tea, flavored blends (orange blossom, verbena, caraway), herbal wellness lines, black teas
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Classic green tea for mint infusion, premium loose leaf (fine twisted filaments), traditional blends
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Innovations
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300+ blends, tea bags, health-focused (nature/herbal), export-oriented packaging
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Focus on authenticity and purity; less diversification but strong regional loyalty
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Popular Codes
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4011 (premium loose), various flavored options
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41022 (high-end, clean leaves, favored in south)
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- Sultan is often praised for consistent quality, refined blends, and a "noble" taste—smooth, aromatic, and balanced. It's frequently chosen for ceremonies, hosting, and gifting due to its prestige and marketing. Many consider it higher-end for everyday premium use.
- Dahmiss stands out for its fine, twisted leaves (especially 41022 grade), delivering a potent, clean infusion with strong flavor—ideal for those who prefer a more intense, traditional mint tea. It's especially beloved in southern provinces for its authenticity and depth.
- Choose Sultan Tea for versatility, innovation, and a refined, modern Moroccan experience (perfect for global palates or wellness seekers).
- Opt for Dahmiss Tea if you crave authentic, intense traditional flavor with a nod to southern heritage (ideal for purists brewing classic atay).

