Australian meat exports to the United Arab Emirates surged to about AED800 million in 2025, underscoring the country’s growing role as a strategic market and highlighting record demand across the wider Middle East and North Africa.
Darren Watson, Regional Manager for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Meat and Livestock Australia, said exports to the UAE rose to 316 million Australian dollars in 2025, up from 236 million Australian dollars the previous year. Exports to the Middle East and North Africa reached a new high of 2.2 billion Australian dollars, equivalent to roughly AED5.5 billion.
Watson described the UAE as one of the most important markets for Australian red meat, driven by strong consumer demand and a hospitality sector that values quality and consistency. He said the country’s position as a regional trade and tourism hub continues to support long term growth.
At Gulfood 2026, 32 Australian red meat exporters are participating across a 720 square metre exhibition space, double the size of the previous edition. Watson said the expanded presence reflects rising confidence among Australian exporters and a clear commitment to deepening ties with the UAE market.
He added that Meat and Livestock Australia invests around 320 million Australian dollars each year in research, development and marketing to support beef, sheep and goat producers, open new markets and build global demand. Looking ahead, the focus will be on value added products, with the UAE seen as an ideal environment for premium Australian meat to continue gaining ground.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
