Retailers across the UAE are significantly increasing their shelf space for locally produced goods in response to rising consumer demand and a national push for industrial growth.
As part of this shift, major retail chains are working closely with local manufacturers to boost visibility and sales of UAE-made products.
Lulu Retail Holding, a key player in the region, has been promoting local goods through its Emarat Al-Awwal initiative for the past seven years. CEO Saifee Rupawala revealed that, since last year, the company has collaborated with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology to roll out the Make it in the Emirates campaign nationwide. The retailer aims to grow its sales of locally produced items by at least 10 percent, using strategies like in-store branding and targeted promotions to highlight domestic products.
Similarly, Almaya Group has reported increased consumer interest in UAE-made goods, particularly in categories such as dairy, fresh produce, and sweets. Kamal Vachani, Partner at Almaya Group, shared that while imported goods still dominate niche markets, a growing number of shoppers are actively seeking locally produced options.
"The quality of local products is improving, which is building long-term consumer trust,"
he said.
At Al Kabayel Discount Centre, the trend toward local sourcing has become more pronounced in recent years. Purchase Manager Ajith Kumar noted that many items, once imported and later packed locally, are now fully produced within the UAE, reflecting stricter local regulations and higher product standards.
Consumers are taking notice of the shift, with many expressing support for locally produced goods due to their freshness and longer shelf life. Shoppers like Yousef Alzaabi and Ali Abdullah are keen to see more local options in stores, citing the convenience and reliability of UAE-made products. As the demand for homegrown alternatives grows, UAE retailers are poised to further integrate local products into their offerings.
News Source: Khaleej Times
