UAE: Up to 50% off on local fresh produce at Ramadan market in Umm Al Quwain

Khaleej Times

04-03-2025

Locally grown vegetables and fruits, UAE-produced dates and confectioneries, and home-bred meat—now available at discounts of up to 50 per cent—are drawing shoppers to a special Ramadan market at the Umm Al Quwain Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Bringing together the best of UAE-made food products, the 'Make it in the Emirates' Ramadan Market was launched by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) in collaboration with local entities. This platform supports local manufacturers and consumers and will run during the first two weeks of Ramadan.
It aims to enhance the competitiveness and consumer confidence in UAE-made products, by directly promoting them and encouraging local consumption. The initiative also aims to grow the F&B sector, enhancing its contribution to the national economy.
Osama Amir Fadhel, Assistant Undersecretary of the Industry Accelerators Sector at MoIAT told Khaleej Times that launching Make it in the Emirates Ramadan Market reflects the ministry's commitment to supporting local industries and enhancing their consumer reach.
'This market is part of a broader initiative to support local manufacturers, enhance consumer confidence in UAE-made products, and boost economic diversification. It also aligns with the UAE's goal of increasing self-reliance in food production.'
'This initiative serves as an interactive platform where local manufacturers can connect directly with consumers, fostering greater trust in UAE-made products while supporting sustainable industrial growth. As part of MoIAT's efforts during the Year of Community, the market promotes local consumption and offers competitively priced domestic products.'
The Ramadan Market, which is open to the public, offers exclusive deals on food items, catering to the growing demand for affordable and locally sourced products during the holy month. The event also provides a platform for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to expand their reach, giving them direct access to consumers.
Hany M Haneef, an FMCG businessman and owner of Flour Master, brought his unique range of tortillas to the Ramadan Market. Having lived in the US for years and running businesses there, he recognized the growing demand for tortillas in the UAE and decided to establish a local manufacturing unit. 'We offer a variety of flavoured tortillas, including spinach, beetroot, corn, and tomato, catering to the evolving tastes of consumers,' said Hany.
'Around 75 per cent of tortillas in the UAE are currently imported, while local manufacturers hold only 25 per cent of the market share. However, demand is rising, and we see significant potential for growth. In the near future, we expect tortillas made in the UAE to be exported to neighboring countries, making the UAE a key player in the region's tortilla industry,' said Hany.
'We are offering special discounts at the market to encourage more consumers to try locally made tortillas. This Ramadan market is a great opportunity for people to experience high-quality, homegrown products at competitive prices,' added Hany.
Locally grown vegetables took centre stage at the Ramadan market, highlighting the UAE's efforts in farming and food security. From fresh cucumbers and tomatoes to leafy greens, the market showcased range of high-quality, homegrown produce at competitive prices.
'The UAE's agricultural sector is growing rapidly, and more consumers are recognizing the value of fresh, locally grown vegetables. By reducing dependency on imports, we are not only ensuring food security but also promoting sustainability in the region,' said Sunder from Elite Agro.
'Our farming practices focus on sustainability and purity, using organic methods. Consumers can trust that they are getting fresh vegetables that are not only healthier but also support local agriculture,' added Sunder.
Shoppers can explore a variety of discounted goods, from traditional Ramadan essentials to innovative food products made by UAE-based companies. The MoIAT official confirmed that the Ramadan market could become an annual event, with plans to expand its scope and reach in the coming years.