India’s beloved summer gem—the mango—is making waves overseas, and the United Arab Emirates is leading the charge. In the financial year 2023-2024, the UAE imported a staggering 15,336 metric tonnes of Indian mangoes, firmly establishing itself as the top international buyer of the subcontinent’s prized fruit.
From traditional Alphonsos to the juicy Kesar and Banganapalli varieties, Indian mangoes are not just a seasonal delight; they’re now a global commodity, deeply intertwined with trade, diaspora preferences, and cultural celebration. And at the center of this sweet trade boom is the UAE.
UAE: The Mango Magnet
The United Arab Emirates continues to dominate the mango import charts, thanks to its large South Asian population and increasing appetite for high-quality tropical fruits. According to recent trade figures, the country accounted for nearly 25% of India’s total mango exports during FY24.
Several UAE-based importers have capitalized on this demand, streamlining supply chains and investing in cold storage and fast-track air freight systems to ensure the mangoes arrive fresh and flavorful.
Among the notable importers in the UAE are:
- Al Bakrawe Group
Known for distributing across supermarkets in Dubai and Sharjah, Al Bakrawe has tapped into both retail and wholesale channels. https://www.albakrawegroups.com/ - Fruit Line Trading LLC
With a focus on South Indian and Pakistani mango varieties, this Dubai-based company has expanded its reach to institutional buyers and caterers. https://fruitlinetrading.com/ - Al Maya Group
A leading name in grocery retail, Al Maya directly collaborates with Indian exporters to bring fresh mangoes to UAE shelves. https://www.almaya.ae/
These companies are not just meeting demand—they’re actively shaping consumer preferences with seasonal promotions and festival tie-ins like Mango Fests and Indian Summer Food Weeks.
A Global Taste for Indian Mangoes
While the UAE led with 15,336 metric tonnes, other key importers of Indian mangoes in FY24 include:
- Saudi Arabia – 12,943 MT
- Qatar – 8,456 MT
- UK – 7,980 MT
- USA – 7,112 MT
- Oman – 6,890 MT
- Kuwait – 5,567 MT
- Bangladesh – 4,321 MT
- Singapore – 3,670 MT
- Germany – 3,118 MT
These figures show that India’s mango diplomacy is bearing fruit globally—literally. Regions with significant Indian diaspora populations continue to be the largest markets. But beyond nostalgia and taste, the demand also stems from India’s improved logistics, tighter quality control, and new varieties adapted for export.
What’s Driving the Export Boom?
Several factors have contributed to this export surge:
- Improved Supply Chains: Modern cold storage solutions, reefer container usage, and dedicated air cargo services are ensuring fresher fruit at the destination.
- Government Support: Schemes like APEDA’s export promotion campaigns and mango-specific expos in the Gulf and Europe have helped Indian exporters find long-term buyers.
- Digital Expansion: E-commerce platforms in the UAE like Kibsons and FreshToHome now offer same-day delivery of mangoes, often flown in directly from Indian farms.
UAE’s Cultural Connection
Mangoes have long been a part of cultural life for the Indian and Pakistani expat communities in the UAE. From Ramadan iftars to Eid feasts and Indian Independence Day gatherings, the fruit is more than a delicacy—it’s an emotional connection to home.
Mango distribution has also become a status symbol in many circles, with corporate gifting of premium Alphonso boxes gaining popularity across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Pop-up stalls, farmers’ markets, and mango tasting events are also becoming increasingly common.
The Business Behind the Sweetness
India exported over 65,000 metric tonnes of mangoes globally in FY24, valued at over INR 650 crore. The UAE’s share alone translates to approximately INR 150 crore, highlighting the fruit’s major contribution to bilateral trade.
The future looks promising. With increasing demand for organically grown mangoes and an emerging appetite for lesser-known varieties like Dasheri, Totapuri, and Langra, Indian exporters are now targeting niche markets within the GCC and beyond.
Companies like Barakat Group and Lulu Hypermarket are expanding their sourcing networks within India, tying up with farmers in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh to ensure consistency in supply and quality.
- Barakat Quality Plus
https://www.barakatgroup.ae/ - Lulu Hypermarket UAE
https://www.luluhypermarket.com/
These efforts are not only boosting sales but are also offering Indian farmers more secure and profitable international markets.
What Lies Ahead
Looking to FY25, mango importers are optimistic. Trade insiders suggest the UAE could surpass 17,000 metric tonnes next year if weather conditions remain favorable and logistics continue to evolve.
With plans to introduce GI-tagged mango varieties in mainstream retail and even explore mango-based processed goods like purees and frozen slices, the journey from orchard to overseas plate is entering a whole new era.
As global palates continue to fall in love with India’s king of fruits, and as countries like the UAE step up to savor and celebrate it, this is more than just a trade story—it’s a cultural exchange wrapped in sunshine and sweetness.
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