Ramadan increases food imports through Jebel Ali Port

Trade movement data from the Dubai Ports World Group (DP World) showed that retailers in the region initiated early planning to ensure food supplies before the month of Ramadan, with larger quantities of basic food commodities flowing through Jebel Ali Port, six to eight weeks before the holy month.

Compared to the flow of trade movement in a typical month, an analysis of average trade volumes between 2023 and 2025 showed an increase in imports of rice by 25%, onions and garlic by 35%, nuts such as walnuts, almonds and pistachios by about 15%, and beverages such as juices and soft drinks by about 5%, while imports of kitchen utensils and tableware increased by about 10%, and small kitchen equipment by 9%.

DB World reported that Jebel Ali Port plays a pivotal role in supporting export movement ahead of the month of Ramadan, as date exports during January and February recorded a 60% increase compared to normal months, which contributes to meeting the needs of neighboring markets in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and East Africa. It added that India, Morocco and Bangladesh were the main destinations for date exports during 2025, as they together accounted for 65% of the total volumes. Exports through Jebel Ali Port.

Abdullah bin Demaithan, CEO and General Manager, DB World GCC, said: “The month of Ramadan is witnessing a rapid rise in demand levels, as we notice that customers are planning more and more in advance every year, and through integration between port operations, logistics services and means of transportation through Jebel Ali Port, we are able to accelerate the movement of goods, and ensure the stability of supply chains with increasing demand in the region’s markets.”

He added: “During this period, operations are focused on handling a wide range of consumer goods, including canned food and fresh, chilled and frozen products.”