1 Dates
This is a no-brainer as many Muslims end their fast by eating dates before beginning the iftar meal. According to a rough estimate, nearly 300 varieties of dates are sold in the UAE. Ajwa, renowned for its healing properties, is the most expensive with prices starting from Dh100 per kg.
2 Laban
Butter milk widely known as Laban is always in demand in the UAE but it’s during Ramadan when its sale goes through the roof. A great source of calcium, B-vitamins, it also contains probiotics which helps the digestive system and also strengthens the immune system. No wonder it’s a must-have for most households here.
3 Meat and poultry
Demand for meat and poultry surges in the UAE during Ramadan but since they are highly perishable, people tend to keep them in deep freezers. Significantly poultry is among the 10,000 items on which retailers will be offering huge discounts during Ramadan.
According to Dr Hashim Al Nuaimi, director of consumer protection at UAE Ministry of Economy, the discounts will be available across 600 hypermarkets, supermarkets and cooperative societies, allowing for Dh300 million in savings for residentd.
4 Caramel and jelly mix
No one can refuse a sweet treat at an iftar. Cakes, dumplings, caramel and jelly mixes are in high demand as they are easy and less fussy to make.
5Vimto
A staggering 35 million bottles of the cordial, first made in United Kingdom, are sold in the Middle East each year, which is enough to fill more than 440 million glasses, each carrying 250ml.
Sure enough, the region is now the most popular destination for Vimto lovers outside the UK, with Saudi Arabia as the biggest foreign market, followed by Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates
6 Pistachios
Ramadan is also the season for kunafas and baklavas.
“A good amount of dry fruits is bought during the season, especially pistachios,” says Monika Gayur, salesperson at Baqer Mohebi in Bur Dubai. Supermarkets are tying up with nearby roasteries and dry-fruit sellers to ensure uninterrupted supply during the next 30 days.
7 Chickpeas
The power-packed Mediterranean ingredient is consumed on practically all days in many households. Used in salads, main courses, hummus and other dips, chickpeas remain on top of most shopping lists. All forms of chickpeas — cans, packets are stocked in the city.
8 Couscous
As health conscious eaters increase, so does the consumption of healthier ingredients. A good substitute to pasta, couscous is not restricted to organic stores alone.
