UAE investors flock to food, retail and hospitality stocks ahead of holiday surge
As the UAE prepares for the Eid holidays, local equity markets are experiencing a familiar seasonal trend: a shift in investor focus toward food, retail, and hospitality stocks, driven by an anticipated surge in consumer spending and tourism.
Retail sales in the UAE are forecast to reach $10 billion this year, highlighting the economic significance of the festive period. Food and beverage producers, particularly Agthia Group, are already witnessing increased demand for staples such as dates, flour, and bottled water — key items during Ramadan and Eid celebrations. Agthia, listed on the ADX, reported an 8.1 per cent year-on-year revenue increase in a recent quarter, largely fueled by strong seasonal sales.
'Investors have become more attuned to the predictable earnings rhythm driven by Eid-related consumption,' said Josh Gilbert, market analyst at eToro. 'We typically see a spike in food and retail performance leading into the holiday, and this often shows up in market movements.'
Retailers such as Union Coop (DFM-listed) and Lulu Group (ADX-listed) have benefited from increased foot traffic, gift-buying, and promotional campaigns. Union Coop has seen consistent holiday-driven growth since its listing in 2022, while Lulu Group has leaned into the festive momentum with store expansions and targeted promotions.
The hospitality sector is also capitalising on the Eid travel boom. ADX-listed Abu Dhabi National Hotels and other listed hotel operators reported significant increases in occupancy, with some emirates peaking at over 95 per cent during Eid Al Fitr earlier this year. This surge is driven in part by intra-GCC tourism and a rise in domestic 'staycations,' bolstering hotel revenues, RevPAR, and margins.
'The UAE's strong macroeconomic conditions, supported by elevated oil prices and a post-COVID tourism rebound, are reinforcing these seasonal trends,' added Gilbert. 'Tourism now contributes nearly 9 per cent to the UAE's GDP, and festive periods like Eid deliver a clear economic and market impact.'
Equity traders have taken note. In the run-up to Eid, shares of consumer-focused companies often see increased trading volumes and positive price action. In one pre-Eid trading session, Dubai's consumer staples index jumped more than 2 per cent in a single day, underscoring how investors reposition their portfolios toward holiday beneficiaries.
While overall liquidity may dip during the holiday week, the run-up to Eid continues to offer a meaningful — if temporary — catalyst for UAE equities. As the festive period kicks off, companies in the food, retail, and hospitality sectors are once again in the spotlight, supported by strong consumer sentiment and investor interest.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The National
12 minutes ago
- The National
Clean start: UAE hotel soaps recycled in drive to cut waste and boost hygiene
Each year, hotels across the UAE throw away an estimated 16 million bars of soap – many after just a single use. Now, a growing number of hotels are signing up to a grassroots recycling programme that is tackling the waste head-on, transforming used soap into new bars for communities in need. Launched in 2023, the Unisoap UAE initiative – powered by sustainability platform Goumbook and modelled on a French non-profit – is offering a rare win-win: cutting hospitality waste while boosting hygiene access for vulnerable groups. 'It's a practical solution that serves both people and planet,' says Goumbook founder Tatiana Antonelli Abella. 'And it's gaining momentum.' So far, Goumbook has distributed 10,000 recycled soaps under the initiative. Leading hotel brands supporting the campaign include Atlantis Dubai - which operates Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal - Saadiyat Rotana and Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. "We are proud to partner with Goumbook and Unisoap UAE to help transform soap that would otherwise be destined for the landfill into new soap bars for disadvantaged communities,' said Kelly Timmins, director of marine animal operations and sustainability at Atlantis Dubai, in a testimony shared on Goumbook's website. From luxury waste to vital resource Globally, 2.3 billion people still lack basic handwashing facilities at home, according to the World Health Organisation. Yet, in hotel suites across the world, soaps are routinely tossed out after a single use. 'We realised that soap is not just waste, it's a resource made from water and natural materials and it's vital for hygiene,' Ms Abella told The National. After early experiments with local start-ups, Goumbook formed a strategic partnership with Unisoap in France, leveraging its technical expertise to launch the UAE arm of the project. Today, the initiative works with 15 hotels, including major names such as Atlantis The Palm, Atlantis The Royal, Shangri-La Dubai, Rotana Saadiyat and Centara Mirage, with more coming on board. How soap is recycled Housekeeping staff are trained to separate used soaps into branded Unisoap boxes. These are collected monthly by recycling partners, then delivered to a soap lab where each bar undergoes a meticulous cleaning process: the outer layer is grated off by hand, soaps are thoroughly washed and then remanufactured – without mixing brands, colours or scents. 'The result is a high-quality bar that looks and smells just like new,' said Ms Abella. 'And crucially, there's no plastic or packaging involved.' Zero waste, big impact In keeping with World Environment Day's 2025 theme – cutting single-use plastic – Unisoap UAE goes beyond soap. Used hotel bed linens and towels are repurposed into washbags or reusable sponges to accompany the soaps in hygiene kits, distributed unpackaged to eliminate waste. The initiative reflects the UAE's increasing alignment with circular economy principles and environmental goals. 'We've designed this project to work hand in hand with national sustainability targets,' said Ms Abella. 'It's a practical solution that creates both environmental and social value.' So far, more than three tonnes of soap have been recycled through the initiative, benefiting low-income communities during Ramadan, as well as organisations such as the Al Ihsan Foundation in Sharjah, the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, the Giving Family, Amal Community and Happy Happy. Empowering women and educating communities The social impact is just as important as the environmental one. Unisoap UAE targets women and children as key recipients, and engages women in every level of the process – from hotel housekeeping staff to charity partners and end users. 'We often forget that not everyone has access to something as basic as soap,' said Ms Abella. 'Through this initiative, we also raise awareness about hygiene – how and why it matters.' The project operates through a combination of hotel contributions and corporate sponsorships. Sponsors can fund the production and distribution of soaps to specific communities while Goumbook covers early-stage costs to prove concepts and scale up. There are also plans ready to expand the model to Saudi Arabia and Qatar, where interest is growing. Call to action: Join the circular economy To mark the Year of Community, Goumbook is organising clean-ups and community events across the UAE and is inviting residents to volunteer, donate or share ideas for future projects. Soap is just one piece of the puzzle, said Ms Abella. 'If we can change how we view waste – whether it's a bar of soap or a discarded towel – we can make a real difference. And we'd love more people to join us.'
The National
18 minutes ago
- The National
Team Abu Dhabi cap brilliant cricket season with D10 title
Team Abu Dhabi capped a remarkable domestic season by winning the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) D10 competition. Abu Dhabi defeated Sharjah by seven wickets in the final after restricting their opponents to 87-5 in their 10 overs. The capital side chased down the target inside seven overs, with captain Rohan Mustafa top-scoring with 36. Mustafa continued his brilliant form in the tournament which included a record-breaking 13-ball half-century. He was named the player of the final and the tournament. Left-arm spinner Haider Ali had earlier left his mark on the tournament with an astonishing spell of five wickets for no runs in two overs during the semi-final against Fujairah. Team Abu Dhabi's D10 winning line-up featured two graduates of Zayed Cricket Academy, Ethan D'Souza and Vishal Saravanan. Victory capped what is being hailed as the most successful season at the Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub (ADCSH) and for its renowned Zayed Cricket Academy (ZCA). The 2024/25 campaign saw other major achievements across with Team Abu Dhabi also emerging champions in the ECB D50 tournament and reaching the semi-finals of the ECB D20. Zayed Cricket Academy U19 side were declared champions of the ECB National League while the U16s were runners-up in the National League. 'This D10 title is a huge validation of our model,' said Matt Boucher, CEO of ADCSH. 'These are not just success stories for board meetings and presentations – they are real, on-the-field wins. Team Abu Dhabi's achievements are proof that long-term investment in player development through Zayed Cricket Academy is delivering tangible results. Our coaching staff, especially those working behind the scenes, deserve huge credit for turning potential into podiums. 'Special acknowledgment and our thanks goes to Ruan Bohalmann from Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, whose exceptional team management skills were instrumental in guiding Team Abu Dhabi through the D10 campaign with focus and unity.' Bohlmann added: 'This season reflects the spirit of sport that we continue to build in Abu Dhabi – grassroots development feeding elite performance. 'The success of Team Abu Dhabi and Zayed Cricket Academy is something the whole emirate can be proud of. As the region cements its status as a sporting powerhouse, this record-setting season confirms that Abu Dhabi is not just hosting top-tier cricket – we are building it, nurturing it, and winning with it. 'This title wasn't won by individuals – it was earned through true teamwork. Every player gave 100 per cent in all departments – batting, bowling, and fielding. It's the collective effort, determination, and commitment of the Team Abu Dhabi squad that made this possible. 'I hope this experience also gave ZCA youngsters Ethan D'Souza and Vishal Saravanan valuable insight into what to expect and what's expected as they progress in their cricketing journeys.' Team Abu Dhabi had earlier celebrated winning the D50 title in April. The Abu Dhabi side defeated Fujairah in the 50-over competition final in Ajman. There, Fujairah were bowled out for 214 before Team Abu Dhabi chasing down the target in 36 overs with five wickets in hand. Captain and UAE cricket veteran Mustafa top-scored for the winners there as well, hitting 45 from just 28 balls. Team Abu Dhabi had also won the D20 title in 2023.
Gulf Today
22 minutes ago
- Gulf Today
Exhibition unveils Emirati home-based projects
A five-day exhibition 'Bahjat Al Eid' was held which displayed a number of Emirati families' home-based projects and received tremendous response from visitors of all nationalities. The exhibition started on June 1 at Al Barsha Mall, Dubai and was organised by Union Coop with the aim of expanding its community services and providing an integrated shopping experience towards the residents of the emirate. An official said that 'the initiative is aligned with Union Coop's commitment to empowering Emirati productive families by offering them dedicated spaces within its commercial centres to display and market their goods. This practical step aims to transform small-scale ventures into sustainable economic contributors. Through this initiative, Union Coop merges community impact with service innovation, offering high-quality local products in a modern and comfortable shopping environment — adding a new dimension to the customer experience in its shopping centres.' Union Coop affirmed that the Bahjat Al Eid Exhibition is designed to add value for customers by introducing innovative and diverse products from Emirati families. This initiative not only enhances shopping options but also supports the local economy, reflecting the cooperative's ongoing commitment to addressing the needs of its diverse consumer base. The cooperative added that today's customers prefer quality, authenticity, and a shopping experience rooted in national identity. By supporting productive families, Union Coop helps meet these expectations while fostering direct engagement between local producers and consumers. Visitors took part in an Emirati cultural coffee experience. The homegrown Emirati brand, Gahwatna, has launched a one-of-a-kind immersive experiential pop-up in partnership with Union Coop at Etihad Mall. This activation is far more than a coffee offering. It is a cultural movement designed to spark curiosity, enhance identity, and invite the world to experience the essence of the Emirates through all five senses. Pioneering in its concept, the Gahwatna pop-up seamlessly fuses the traditional art of Emirati Gahwa preparation with cutting-edge innovation and sensory storytelling. Visitors are not merely served coffee, they are invited to immerse in the narrative of belonging, memory, and modern heritage. Set within one of the UAE's most trusted community retailers, this initiative signals a new chapter in local entrepreneurship and cultural branding. At Gahwatna, we see Gahwa not just as a beverage, but as a ritual of connection, hospitality, and national pride,' said Ali Mansoor, Chief Executive Officer and creative force behind the brand. 'Union Coop represents the heart of our communities, and launching from here is a symbolic and strategic step in our journey to take an authentic Emirati voice from our home to the world.' Gahwatna is led by its partners Ali Mansoor and Saeed Al Suwaidi. Mohamed Al Hashemi, CEO of Union Coop, visited the pop-up to personally experience what Gahwatna represents. Impressed by the depth and originality of the activation, he extended an invitation for Gahwatna to participate in the grand opening of Union Coop's new Khawaneej branch, where a tailored popup was launched the same day. Jamil Khan, Senior Reporter DUBAI: A five-day exhibition 'Bahjat Al Eid' was held which displayed a number of Emirati families' home-based projects and received tremendous response from visitors of all nationalities. The exhibition started on June 1 at Al Barsha Mall, Dubai and was organised by Union Coop with the aim of expanding its community services and providing an integrated shopping experience towards the residents of the emirate. An official said that 'the initiative is aligned with Union Coop's commitment to empowering Emirati productive families by offering them dedicated spaces within its commercial centres to display and market their goods. This practical step aims to transform small-scale ventures into sustainable economic contributors. Through this initiative, Union Coop merges community impact with service innovation, offering high-quality local products in a modern and comfortable shopping environment — adding a new dimension to the customer experience in its shopping centres.' Union Coop affirmed that the Bahjat Al Eid Exhibition is designed to add value for customers by introducing innovative and diverse products from Emirati families. This initiative not only enhances shopping options but also supports the local economy, reflecting the cooperative's ongoing commitment to addressing the needs of its diverse consumer base. The cooperative added that today's customers prefer quality, authenticity, and a shopping experience rooted in national identity. By supporting productive families, Union Coop helps meet these expectations while fostering direct engagement between local producers and consumers. Visitors took part in an Emirati cultural coffee experience. The homegrown Emirati brand, Gahwatna, has launched a one-of-a-kind immersive experiential pop-up in partnership with Union Coop at Etihad Mall. This activation is far more than a coffee offering. It is a cultural movement designed to spark curiosity, enhance identity, and invite the world to experience the essence of the Emirates through all five senses. Pioneering in its concept, the Gahwatna pop-up seamlessly fuses the traditional art of Emirati Gahwa preparation with cutting-edge innovation and sensory storytelling. Visitors are not merely served coffee, they are invited to immerse in the narrative of belonging, memory, and modern heritage. Set within one of the UAE's most trusted community retailers, this initiative signals a new chapter in local entrepreneurship and cultural branding. At Gahwatna, we see Gahwa not just as a beverage, but as a ritual of connection, hospitality, and national pride,' said Ali Mansoor, Chief Executive Officer and creative force behind the brand. 'Union Coop represents the heart of our communities, and launching from here is a symbolic and strategic step in our journey to take an authentic Emirati voice from our home to the world.' Gahwatna is led by its partners Ali Mansoor and Saeed Al Suwaidi. Mohamed Al Hashemi, CEO of Union Coop, visited the pop-up to personally experience what Gahwatna represents. Impressed by the depth and originality of the activation, he extended an invitation for Gahwatna to participate in the grand opening of Union Coop's new Khawaneej branch, where a tailored popup was launched the same day.
