The United Arab Emirates has stepped up measures to safeguard its food supply system as regional geopolitical tensions threaten to disrupt key shipping routes. Authorities are working closely with retailers and logistics operators to ensure supermarkets remain well stocked even if trade channels face prolonged interruptions.
As part of these efforts, retailers have been directed to provide daily evening updates on inventory levels and product prices to government authorities. The reporting system aims to detect any early signs of shortages and prevent panic buying or supply gaps. Supermarket chains have also been encouraged to explore alternative shipping and logistics routes to maintain a steady inflow of food products.
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Strategic Stockpiles and Retail Readiness
Officials say the country’s strategic reserves of essential food items remain strong. According to Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, the UAE currently holds strategic reserves sufficient for four to six monthsof essential commodities.
Major retail chains have also built significant buffers. The Lulu Group International, which operates more than 100 supermarkets across the UAE, has stock levels estimated to last around six months, while Al Maya Group reports three to four months of available inventory. Retailers are increasingly sourcing fresh produce from local farms to reduce reliance on imports during periods of disruption.
Despite the challenges, Lulu Group continues to expand operations. The company recently opened a new store in Dubaiand plans to launch another outlet in Abu Dhabi in the coming days.
Supply Routes Under Pressure
Food imports into the UAE are largely routed through Jebel Ali Port, the country’s main gateway for international cargo located in Dubai. The port handles roughly 73% of the UAE’s total food and beverage trade by value and works alongside the Jebel Ali Free Zone as a major regional distribution hub.
However, maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz—a vital shipping corridor between Iran and Oman—has faced disruptions due to ongoing tensions in the region. With the narrow waterway temporarily affected, retailers have begun diversifying sourcing routes, including increasing imports from eastern markets depending on port operations.
Industry executives believe shipping activity could gradually normalise following assurances from Iranian leadership that attacks on Gulf neighbours would cease.
Government Support for Emergency Imports
To maintain supply stability, authorities have allowed retailers to bring in food via chartered cargo flights, even though such shipments are significantly more expensive than standard sea freight. The UAE government is reportedly absorbing the additional logistics costs to ensure retail prices remain stable for consumers.
For instance, Lulu Group recently flew in 80 tonnes of fresh fruits and vegetables from Kochi, with the cargo arriving in Abu Dhabi. Another chartered flight transported meat and other food products from New Delhi.
Chartered air freight typically costs about $3 to $3.5 per kilogram, compared with $1 to $1.5 per kilogram for conventional sea shipments, making it nearly three times more expensive.
According to M. A. Yusuff Ali, chairman of Lulu Group, imports from India have played a critical role in maintaining supply. He noted that the shipments are not only supporting Lulu supermarkets but are also helping hotels, restaurants, and other food businesses across the UAE.
Price Control and Market Stability
Authorities have warned retailers against exploiting the situation by increasing food prices. Strict monitoring measures are in place, and businesses found engaging in unjustified price hikes could face regulatory action.
Meanwhile, retailers continue to coordinate closely with logistics partners and port authorities to adjust shipment schedules and maintain the steady movement of goods.
While the recent air shipments provide only about three days of supply, industry officials say additional chartered flights could be arranged if maritime and airport operations take longer to return to normal.
Overall, the UAE’s proactive measures—ranging from strategic stockpiles to government-backed emergency imports—aim to ensure that food availability and price stability remain unaffected despite regional trade disruptions.
