Introduction – United Arab Emirates’s Vegetables Market in Statistical Focus
When you think of vegetables, the arid desert of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) might not be the first place that comes to mind. But here’s the twist — the UAE has been making bold moves in the global vegetable market. Despite its dry climate and sandy soils, the country is taking big strides toward food self-sufficiency.
As of 2025, the UAE’s vegetable production market is pegged at an estimated USD 8.41 million, with projections soaring to USD 9.32 million by 2029, following a steady 2.61% annual growth rate. Sure, the UAE accounts for less than 0.01% of global vegetable output, but don’t let that fool you. The country is investing heavily in hydroponics, vertical farming, and smart irrigation to change the game.
Exports are also on the rise. In 2023, the UAE’s frozen vegetables exports (HS code 0710) hit USD 18.7 million, a 26% increase over the previous year. The fresh/chilled segment (HS code 070990) also saw solid growth. Countries like Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Oman, and South Africa top the list of key buyers.
So what’s fueling this growth? It’s a mix of smart tech, keen policy moves like the National Food Security Strategy, and a growing local push for sustainable agriculture.
Let’s dive deeper into the numbers, trends, and most importantly — the top 8 vegetables suppliers in the UAE for Q3 2025.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Market Signals
The stats speak volumes — literally. In 2023, the UAE produced around 298,000 metric tons of vegetables, a 1.6% increase over the previous year and part of a growing 4.4% annual trend since 2018. On the export front, 2024 saw 55,000 tons shipped out, raking in around USD 52 million and making up 45% of the Gulf Cooperation Council’s vegetable exports.
But what’s behind these numbers?
- Export volumes are diversified, reaching over 40 countries, from the UK to Ghana and India to South Africa.
- The RFQ (Request for Quote) trends on platforms like Freshdi show a spike in demand for leafy greens, cucumbers, and okra — especially from buyers in Africa and Asia.
- Organic produce and locally grown vegetables are becoming hot commodities, largely driven by health trends and eco-conscious consumers.
And let’s not forget innovation. The UAE is pushing boundaries with indoor farming. Madar Farms and other vertical farms are producing fresh greens in spaces that once seemed impossible.
This makes it clear — the UAE isn’t just exporting vegetables, it’s exporting smart agriculture.
Top 8 Verified Vegetables Suppliers in United Arab Emirates – Leading Exporters by Volume
Here’s where things get real. Based on verified data, export performance, and feedback from buyers on platforms like Freshdi, here are the Top 8 vegetables suppliers in the UAE for Q3 2025:
1. 24 Royal Bloom Fze LLC
- Known for high-quality mixed vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers.
- Strong presence in both local and export markets.
- Offers consistent volume, timely delivery, and certified quality.
2. Foodcana FOR FOOD PRODUCTS
- Specializes in frozen vegetables, catering to clients across the Middle East and Africa.
- HACCP and ISO certifications ensure top-tier hygiene and product safety.
- Popular among food processors and distributors.
3. MUHAMMAD SAQIB RAO FOODSTUFF TRADING LLC
- Offers a wide variety of fresh vegetables including cabbage, okra, and cucumbers.
- Known for competitive pricing and bulk supply.
- Reliable logistics that meet tight delivery schedules.
4. Tariq Al Shamal Foodstuff Trading LLC
- Focuses on salad vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and arugula.
- Supplies to hotels, restaurants, and institutional buyers.
- Emphasizes freshness and sustainable sourcing.
5. Green Oasis Agriculture LLC
- A pioneer in hydroponic farming in the UAE.
- Supplies pesticide-free leafy greens and herbs.
- Strong relations with supermarket chains and organic outlets.
6. Emirates Hydroponics Farms
- Located in Abu Dhabi, this farm uses advanced water-saving technologies.
- Produces premium-quality vegetables like kale, basil, and cherry tomatoes.
- Supplies both domestic and export markets.
7. Al Dahra Agriculture
- One of the UAE’s largest agribusinesses.
- Offers a wide range of fresh and frozen vegetables.
- Operates across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
8. Barakat Vegetables & Fruits Co. LLC
- A household name in the UAE’s fresh produce market.
- Supplies premium vegetables to airlines, hotels, and grocery stores.
- Known for freshness, traceability, and quality assurance.
Dynamic Ranking Note
Platforms like Freshdi frequently update their supplier rankings based on recent activities, fulfillment rates, and customer feedback. Keep an eye out for “Suppliers of the Month” or “Top Performers of the Quarter” to get real-time insights into who’s leading the pack.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Pricing Analysis & Export Dynamics
Vegetable prices in the UAE can swing like a pendulum — and if you’re not watching, you might miss the best deals.
Here’s the scoop:
- Seasonal Trends: Prices for tomatoes, for example, tend to spike in the hotter months when local supply dips and imports rise.
- Smart Timing: Buyers using historical data from platforms like Freshdi can time their RFQs to align with price dips — maximizing margins.
- Demand Indicators: Leafy greens and salad veggies are in peak demand year-round, especially from the hospitality sector gearing up for tourist seasons.
By analyzing export volumes, buyer behavior, and seasonal availability, savvy businesses can lock in better deals — and fewer headaches.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Strategic Sourcing
The UAE may not be the world’s veggie basket just yet, but the trajectory is clear: smarter farming, higher exports, and stronger supplier networks.
With over 55,000 tons of vegetables exported and a USD 52 million market, the UAE is well on its way to becoming a regional leader in vegetable production and trade. As businesses look to source smarter, it’s no longer enough to go with the lowest price; it’s about data, performance, and reliability.
Checklist for Buyers: What to Look for in a UAE Vegetable Supplier
✅ Export volume and track record
✅ Verified certifications (ISO, HACCP, Organic)
✅ Freshdi platform rating and buyer reviews
✅ RFQ response time and logistics capacity
✅ Compliance with destination country regulations
How Freshdi Empowers Buyers
Platforms like Freshdi don’t just connect you with suppliers. They offer:
- Verified supplier profiles
- Dynamic RFQ tracking
- Export volume analysis
- Real-time pricing intelligence
- Supplier comparison tools
Make your next sourcing decision based on facts, not guesswork.
FAQs
1. What vegetables are most commonly exported from the UAE?
Tomatoes, cucumbers, leafy greens, cabbage, and okra top the list. Frozen mixed vegetables also form a significant portion of exports.
2. Are UAE vegetable suppliers certified for international markets?
Yes, many suppliers hold certifications like ISO, HACCP, and even Organic, making them compliant with global standards.
3. How can I verify a UAE supplier before placing an order?
Use platforms like Freshdi to check supplier profiles, read reviews, view past export data, and even request documentation.
4. Is it possible to buy vegetables from UAE suppliers in bulk for Africa or Asia?
Absolutely. Many UAE suppliers, especially those listed in this article, cater to bulk international orders and have experience shipping to markets across Africa and Asia.
5. What’s the best time of year to source vegetables from the UAE?
While many vegetables are available year-round thanks to controlled-environment farming, cooler months (October to March) usually yield better deals and fresher produce.
References
- Statista – UAE Vegetable Market Outlook
- Trendeconomy – UAE Export Data for HS 0710
- World Bank – UAE Trade Statistics
- FASTA – UAE Food Processing Sector
- Wikipedia – Agriculture in the UAE
- Mordor Intelligence – UAE Fruits and Vegetables Market
- IndexBox.io – Vegetable Production UAE
- Freshdi – Verified B2B Marketplace for Vegetables
