How about dried apricots? Figs are another possibility, though their seeds would change the character of the dish. Sometimes a liquid sweetener (honey, agave, yacon) would suffice if the dates are not a huge part of the recipe.

If you're making something that doesn't require the chewy, dense texture of dates (like a raw soup), apples work well. I like using a bit of apple as a sweetener in salsas.

Swayze
www.fitonraw.com

maybe raisins

yeah, raisins

Raisins and figs as suggested would be a good choice.

Amla Powder