Organic trend becoming a reality

Organic food is finally becoming popular across the UAE, despite the economic setbacks facing the country.

In a report by Business Monitor International (BMI), the UAE’s organic food sector has started showing promise as the country’s residents “slowly” accept the idea of consuming organic produce.

The report said: “The growing presence of foreign retailers and a sprinkling of new organic-focused restaurants and cafés is proof that the industry is finally showing signs of promise.”

Supermarket chain Lulu said demand for organic produce in its stores had increased 120% over the last three years, despite BMI’s report stating that the market has been heavily reliant on the expatriate community.



The report added: “General apathy to organics among consumers has contributed to the sectors niche status despite an unprecedented economic boom that propelled the UAE’s per capita GDP to an estimated US $56,858 in 2008.”

BMI suggested a key reason behind the growing organic trend was the UAE government’s drive to prevent souring diabetes and obesity rates, by re-evaluating its agricultural policies and promoting healthy eating.

The UAE now accommodates 1400 hectares of organic farmland according to the UAE Ministry of Agriculture; BMI’s report noted that sourcing organic produce was a major challenge for importers.