The UAE is the leading market for Indian mango exports. In 2024, India shipped over 12,000 metric tonnes of mangoes to the UAE, worth around $20 million. This trend is expected to grow as Indian mangoes become more popular worldwide. The ‘Indian Mango Mania’ festival has started in Abu Dhabi. This vibrant campaign takes place in LuLu Hypermarkets across the UAE and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). It invites everyone to enjoy the rich flavours of Indian mangoes this summer.
The festival showcases a variety of mangoes that have been flown in fresh from India’s diverse orchards. Some popular types include Alphonso, Langra, Banganapalli, and Fazli. There are also lesser-known varieties like Himam Pasand, Kalappadi, and Lakshman Bhog. This event is a joint effort by the LuLu Group, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), the Indian Embassy in the UAE, and several Indian state governments.
The aim of the festival is to promote Indian mangoes and support local farmers and exporters. The opening ceremony took place at LuLu Hypermarket in Khalidiyah Mall. It was inaugurated by Sunjay Sudhir, the Indian Ambassador to the UAE, alongside Yusuff Ali M.A., the Chairman of LuLu Group, and other dignitaries. Ambassador Sudhir expressed his excitement about the festival, stating, “Through this festival, the freshness and richness of Indian mangoes will delight households across the Gulf.”
LuLu Hypermarkets are not just selling mangoes. They have introduced a variety of mango-themed dishes. These include mango bread, mango cakes, and even mango sushi. Traditional Indian recipes like mango chutney and Gujarati mango curry are also featured. This diverse selection reflects the cultural connection that mangoes have with Indian cuisine.
The festival serves a bigger purpose than just showcasing mangoes. It aims to create a connection between Indian farmers and international markets. APEDA’s Deputy General Manager, Dr. CB Singh, stated that this initiative not only highlights the variety of Indian mangoes but also opens up export opportunities for growers. This helps support farming communities back in India.
The festival is also receiving praise from Indian officials. Union Minister Piyush Goyal has noted that Indian mangoes are increasingly conquering markets in the UAE. The festival features GI-tagged varieties of mangoes like Banarasi Langra, Dasheri, and Mallika, which are celebrated for their unique tastes.
India’s strong mango exports to the UAE underscore the demand for these fruits. The UAE continues to be the largest importer of Indian mangoes, especially as summer arrives. The mango season provides a great opportunity for Indian growers to reach international consumers. The festival is a timely event that coincides with this season, allowing visitors to experience the best of Indian mangoes.
Additionally, the campaign includes a curated selection of mango-based dishes, snacks, and beverages. This includes everything from mango pastries to mango smoothies. The aim is to showcase the versatility of Indian mangoes in various culinary forms.
Ambassador Sudhir highlighted how LuLu’s efforts are crucial in promoting Indian agriculture on a global scale. The festival is expected to strengthen trade relations between India and the UAE. It is also a significant step towards enhancing the visibility of Indian agricultural products in international markets.
As the festival progresses, more people are discovering the joy of Indian mangoes. This celebration not only brings delightful flavours but also builds stronger ties between farmers and consumers across the globe. With initiatives like ‘Indian Mango Mania 2025’, the future looks bright for Indian mango exports.
In summary, ‘Indian Mango Mania 2025’ is more than just a fruit festival. It is a celebration of culture, agriculture, and global trade, bringing the taste of India to the UAE. The festival is set to make a lasting impact on both consumers and farmers alike, paving the way for a fruitful future.
