Dremio SQL Reference

Generate Dremio SQL queries and DML with Iceberg and versioned syntax.

Updated Mar 6, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/developer-advocacy-dremio/dremio-skills-bundle --skill dremio-sql-reference
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: Dremio SQL Reference
Source: https://github.com/developer-advocacy-dremio/dremio-skills-bundle/tree/main/dremio-sql-skill
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/developer-advocacy-dremio/dremio-skills-bundle --skill dremio-sql-reference

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill removes guesswork when authoring SQL for Dremio by summarizing Dremio-specific syntax, constraints, and best practices so agents produce queries and DML that run correctly against Dremio engines and Iceberg tables.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Dialect Guidance: Explains identifier quoting, path formats, and Calcite-based syntax differences.
  • Iceberg DML & Maintenance: Covers INSERT/UPDATE/DELETE/MERGE, OPTIMIZE, VACUUM, ROLLBACK and when DML is allowed.
  • Versioned Queries & Time Travel: Shows AT BRANCH / AT TAG / AT SNAPSHOT / AT TIMESTAMP usage for Nessie/Arctic catalogs.
  • Reflections, RBAC & PIPE: Includes reflection creation syntax, grant/revoke patterns, and COPY INTO / PIPE ingestion examples.
  • Reference Index: Direct links to official Dremio docs for exact command semantics and edge-case details.

Quick Start

Ask the agent to write a Dremio-compatible query that selects from an Iceberg table at branch main and includes proper quoting for identifiers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dremio SQL Reference

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I write time travel queries for Iceberg tables in Dremio?

Dremio time travel queries use AT BRANCH, AT TAG, AT SNAPSHOT, or AT TIMESTAMP syntax to query versioned Iceberg tables in Nessie or Arctic catalogs, letting you select historical data states accurately.

Can I use standard SQL UPDATE and DELETE statements on Iceberg tables in Dremio?

Dremio supports INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, and MERGE DML for Iceberg tables, but you must follow Iceberg-only DML constraints and ensure proper identifier quoting to execute queries correctly.

What is the correct syntax for COPY INTO ingestion workflows in Dremio?

Dremio COPY INTO and PIPE ingestion workflows require specific Dremio SQL syntax to load data accurately. This includes proper path formats and adherence to Calcite-based dialect differences for successful execution.

How do I create and manage reflections using Dremio SQL?

Dremio reflection creation requires specific SQL syntax to optimize query performance. You must use correct reflection creation statements and reference official Dremio documentation for exact command semantics and edge cases.

How do I configure RBAC grant and revoke statements in Dremio?

Dremio RBAC statements use specific grant and revoke patterns to manage access control. You must follow Dremio-specific syntax rules and proper identifier quoting to execute role-based access commands correctly.

Why does my Dremio SQL query fail with syntax errors on Iceberg tables?

Dremio SQL query failures on Iceberg tables often stem from incorrect identifier quoting, violating Iceberg-only DML constraints, or using non-Calcite syntax. Reference official Dremio docs to resolve ambiguous edge cases.