Introduction – Current State of Play: The Chickpeas Sector in United Arab Emirates
The chickpeas market in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is experiencing significant momentum as we head into the second half of 2025. From evolving import dynamics to rising demand for plant-based proteins, the sector is at a crucial turning point. The country’s culinary dependence on chickpeas—mainly through dishes like hummus and falafel—continues to drive high consumption levels. Yet, the UAE remains a net importer of chickpeas, relying heavily on countries such as India, Turkey, and Mexico to meet domestic demand.
Recent developments—including new trade agreements, sustainability-driven agricultural policies, and digital procurement tools—are rapidly transforming how businesses operate in this sector. With the wholesale price of chickpeas fluctuating between $0.84 to $1.79 per kg in 2025, and retail prices reaching as high as $2.55/kg, companies sourcing chickpeas must stay agile to maintain profitability and supply chain resilience.
Platforms like Freshdi are increasingly essential for businesses, offering tools for supplier verification, RFQ monitoring, and real-time market insights tailored to the UAE’s evolving chickpeas landscape.
Breaking News: Critical Updates & Their Effects
A Surge in Demand Meets Import Dependency
The Middle East chickpeas market, which includes the UAE, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.6% between 2025 and 2031. This growth is largely driven by a shift towards plant-based diets and increased use of chickpeas in functional foods like gluten-free flours and ready-to-eat meals.
Weather and Climate: A Double-Edged Sword
Persistent water scarcity and extreme temperatures pose challenges for local cultivation. However, this has triggered government-backed R&D into drought-resistant crop varieties. Producers like Emirates Bio Farm are leading the charge in sustainable farming practices.
Trade and Technology: A Sector in Transition
While UAE’s chickpea exports dipped by 27.44% between 2018 and 2019, imports remain strong. The country brought in over 105,000 tonnes in 2019 alone, and recent months have shown renewed trade activity. Digital procurement platforms like Freshdi and advanced analytics tools are making it easier for businesses to adapt to these supply-demand shifts in real time.
Top 8 Verified Chickpeas Suppliers in United Arab Emirates – Adapting to Today’s Market
Businesses looking to secure reliable, high-quality chickpea sources in the UAE should consider the following top verified suppliers. These companies have been selected based on their export performance, certifications, supply consistency, and ratings on Freshdi.
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ASIA AND AFRICA GENERAL TRADING L.L.C.
A leading supplier with a robust international network. Known for consistent quality and timely deliveries. -
Makler Connect L.L.C
Specializing in bulk chickpea trade with verified certifications and strong buyer feedback. -
Al Dahra Agriculture
A major UAE-based agri-business investing in sustainable and organic chickpea cultivation. -
Emirates Bio Farm
Pioneers in organic farming, offering locally grown chickpeas with a focus on sustainability. -
Al Islami Foods
While primarily known for frozen foods, they’ve recently expanded into legumes including chickpeas. -
National Food Industries LLC
Offers processed chickpea-based products such as hummus and roasted snacks. -
Global Food Industries
A vertically integrated supplier handling everything from procurement to packaging. -
AGT Food and Ingredients UAE
A multinational player with a strong presence in the UAE chickpea import market.
Dynamic Ranking Note:
Supplier rankings may shift monthly based on activity, buyer feedback, and RFQ fulfillment. Platforms like Freshdi regularly update rankings to reflect real-time performance, including “Supplier of the Month” and “Top Exporter of the Quarter” badges.
Market Navigation – Strategic Responses to Today’s Chickpeas Landscape in United Arab Emirates
Immediate Opportunities for Buyers and Traders
With the chickpeas market in growth mode, businesses have ample opportunities to align their strategies with consumer and policy trends.
- Product Innovation: Chickpea-based snacks, gluten-free flours, and canned legumes are seeing a surge in popularity.
- Retail Expansion: The rise of online grocery platforms and modern retail is increasing accessibility of chickpea products.
- Government Incentives: Grants and subsidies are being rolled out to support local production and reduce water consumption.
Emerging Challenges and Risks
- Import Dependency: Over 100,000 tonnes of chickpeas are imported annually, making the UAE vulnerable to global supply disruptions.
- Climate Pressures: Water scarcity and inconsistent rainfall patterns affect local cultivation severely.
- Price Volatility: Wholesale prices ranging from $0.84 to $1.79/kg reflect unstable supply chains.
Strategic Sourcing Tactics
- Diversify Suppliers: Engage with verified sellers from India, Turkey, and Mexico to mitigate geopolitical risks.
- Use Digital Tools: Platforms like Freshdi help buyers access real-time RFQ data, supplier ratings, and market forecasts.
- Invest in Local: Collaborate with UAE-based producers like Emirates Bio Farm to secure organic and sustainable supply lines.
Conclusion – Key Takeaways for Businesses in a Rapidly Evolving Market
The chickpeas market in the United Arab Emirates is in a state of active transformation. Driven by consumer demand, government initiatives, and digital procurement solutions, the sector offers both challenges and immense opportunities.
Businesses sourcing chickpeas from the UAE should keep a finger on the pulse of:
- Price trends influenced by import reliance and climate.
- New policies supporting sustainable agriculture.
- Verified suppliers with a proven track record of quality and consistency.
Buyer’s Checklist – July 2025 Edition
✅ Review RFQ trends weekly on Freshdi
✅ Prioritize suppliers with verified certifications
✅ Monitor price fluctuations and update budgets monthly
✅ Shortlist suppliers offering organic and sustainable options
✅ Diversify sourcing to avoid over-reliance on one country
The Freshdi Advantage
Freshdi empowers buyers by:
- Offering real-time market insights and price alerts
- Providing verified supplier directories with reviews
- Tracking dynamic RFQ trends aligned with breaking news
- Enabling secure B2B communication and transactions
In a fast-changing market like the UAE’s chickpeas sector, staying informed and agile is non-negotiable. Platforms like Freshdi are no longer just optional—they’re essential.
FAQs
1. Why are chickpeas so important in the UAE?
Chickpeas are a central ingredient in staple Middle Eastern dishes like hummus and falafel, making them a vital part of the UAE’s culinary culture.
2. Who are the biggest chickpeas suppliers to the UAE?
India, Turkey, and Mexico are the top exporters of chickpeas to the UAE, supplying the bulk of the 100,000+ tonnes imported annually.
3. What are the retail and wholesale prices of chickpeas in 2025?
Wholesale prices range from $0.84 to $1.79/kg, while retail prices can climb to $2.55/kg, depending on origin and quality.
4. How does Freshdi help buyers in the chickpeas market?
Freshdi offers real-time market data, supplier verification, RFQ tracking, and direct communication tools to streamline procurement.
5. What trends should businesses watch in the chickpeas industry?
Key trends include the rise of plant-based diets, sustainable farming initiatives, and increasing demand for chickpea-based snacks and gluten-free products.
References
- 6Wresearch – Middle East Chickpeas Market Outlook
- Global Insight Services – Chickpeas Market Report
- Selina Wamucii – UAE Chickpeas Price Insights
- Cognitiv Market Research – Chickpeas Market Report
- Future Market Insights – Chickpea Market
- Volza – UAE Chickpeas Imports
- Tendata – UAE Trade Insights
- Research and Markets – Global Chickpeas Market
- Freshdi – B2B Supplier Marketplace
