UAE Chocolate Market: Growth, Trends, and What’s Next for Chocolatiers

UAE chocolate market outlook, trends and growth. Radad International
UAE chocolate market outlook, trends and growth. Radad International

 

Chocolate has always been one of those universal things — something almost everyone enjoys in one form or another. But in the UAE, it’s more than just a sweet tooth craving. It’s business, culture, and experience all wrapped up in one.

Over the past decade, the UAE has quietly become one of the region’s most exciting places for chocolate producers, sellers, and even luxury brands. With the chocolate market valued at USD 1.56 billion in 2024 and expected to hit USD 2.35 billion by 2032, it’s clear that something more than just casual consumption is happening. This growth — a steady 5.3% CAGR — isn’t accidental. It’s being driven by changes in how people live, what they spend on, and what they expect from even the smallest everyday pleasures.

One of the main things pushing this market forward is the country’s affluence. With a GDP per capita around $43,000, people in the UAE — both citizens and residents — have more disposable income than most places in the world. That means chocolates aren’t just something you pick up at the cashier counter anymore. They’ve become gifts, statements of taste, and sometimes even status symbols. It’s not unusual to find high-end Swiss, Belgian, or homegrown artisanal brands displayed in boutique-style packaging in luxury malls.

But that’s not the whole picture. The tourism sector is playing a huge role too. In Dubai alone, more than 16 million international tourists visited in 2022. Tourists — especially from Europe and Asia — often come with a mindset of leisure and gifting, and that includes buying premium chocolates, either for themselves or to take back home. Retailers know this, and you’ll find chocolates prominently displayed in airports, malls, and major shopping districts. Chocolate has become part of the UAE’s broader tourism and luxury shopping experience.

Then there’s the local culture of celebration and hospitality. From Ramadan to UAE National Day, from weddings to corporate events, chocolate is a common gift and an expected part of the table. It’s not just about having a treat — it’s about presenting something refined, thoughtful, and well-packaged. And during these periods, demand for premium and luxury chocolates spikes significantly.

But of course, growth isn’t always smooth. Rising raw material costs, increased awareness around health and sugar consumption, and a very crowded market filled with global and local brands make it a challenging space to stay competitive in. So while the opportunity is big, so is the pressure to innovate — not just in product quality, but also in how chocolates are packaged, marketed, and delivered.

All of this combined makes the UAE chocolate market a lot more dynamic than most people assume. It’s no longer just about mass production and everyday treats. It’s now a space where luxury, tradition, health, and consumer behavior are all influencing what sells, when it sells, and who’s buying.

UAE chocolate market, Patchi chocolate | Radad International

What’s Really Fueling Chocolate Demand in the UAE?

There’s no single reason why chocolate is doing so well in the UAE — it’s a mix of factors that all come together to create the perfect environment for this market to grow. From rising incomes to a strong gifting culture, the demand for chocolate is being pushed from several directions, and each one tells you something important about what people in the UAE want and expect.
 

Rising Incomes and a Taste for Premium Products

One of the clearest drivers is how much more people in the UAE are willing — and able — to spend. With the country ranking among the top globally in terms of GDP per capita, many residents have more financial freedom to buy not just chocolate, but premium chocolate. It’s no longer just about satisfying a craving — it’s about enjoying something that feels high-end.
 
This is especially true when it comes to gifting. Whether it’s for business associates, family, friends, or celebrations, chocolates are often chosen for their presentation as much as their taste. And when people buy chocolate as a gift, they don’t mind spending more on beautifully packaged, high-quality options. Think brands like Patchi, Godiva, and Lindt, which are popular here not just for their chocolate but for the whole experience of buying, gifting, and receiving.
 

Tourism That Brings Chocolate to the Forefront

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are magnets for tourists, and that has a huge impact on what sells — including chocolate. Many tourists, especially from places like Europe and Asia, are used to high standards when it comes to chocolate, and they bring those expectations with them. In response, malls and specialty stores across the UAE stock a wide variety of international and gourmet brands.
 
What’s interesting is that chocolates are no longer just a casual buy — they’ve become a go-to souvenir. Tourists pick them up for friends and family back home, which is great for retailers. And it’s not just at the airport. High-end chocolate shops are strategically placed in popular tourist areas where footfall is high and customers are in the mood to spend.
 

A Strong Culture of Gifting and Celebration

The UAE has a deeply rooted tradition of generosity and hospitality. During festive seasons like Ramadan, Eid, and UAE National Day, the demand for chocolate — especially the kind that’s wrapped beautifully — goes through the roof. It’s a way for people to share kindness, offer thanks, and celebrate in style.
Even in corporate culture, gifting plays a big role. Premium chocolate boxes are common gifts during the holidays and are often used by companies to strengthen business relationships. What this means for the market is that certain times of the year see massive spikes in sales, with retailers planning months in advance to meet the surge in demand.
 

Convenience and Retail Access

Another thing that’s helping the market grow is how easy it is to get chocolate just about anywhere in the UAE. Whether you’re shopping at Carrefour, browsing at Dubai Mall, or scrolling through an e-commerce app, chocolate is available in every form — bars, boxes, gift packs, or artisan bundles.
 
Even online retail has made a big difference. With platforms offering next-day delivery and even temperature-controlled packaging for luxury items, buying chocolate is now more convenient than ever — especially for gifting. The UAE’s booming e-commerce sector (which grew by over 50% in 2021) plays right into this.
UAE chocolate market challenges and African women drying cocoa beans outside | Radad International

Challenges Facing the UAE Chocolate Market

Even though the chocolate market in the UAE is growing steadily, it’s not without its share of bumps. Behind the strong numbers are a few real issues that producers, retailers, and even consumers are starting to feel. These challenges may not be obvious at first glance, but they quietly influence everything from price to product variety.

Rising Raw Material Costs

This is a global issue, but it hits especially hard in markets like the UAE where so much of the chocolate — and its ingredients — are imported. Cocoa prices have been fluctuating, and when you add things like shipping fees, taxes, and inflation, the cost to get chocolate on the shelf keeps going up.
 
It doesn’t just affect big international brands. Even local producers and artisanal chocolatiers — the ones trying to bring something fresh to the market — are struggling with the high cost of quality cocoa, nuts, and dairy. These costs eventually trickle down to the consumer, making premium chocolates even more expensive and narrowing the gap between affordable and luxury options.
 

Health Awareness and Lifestyle Shifts

As more people in the UAE become health-conscious, especially younger adults and families with kids, there’s been a slow but steady shift away from overly sugary snacks — and that includes chocolate.
 
More consumers are reading labels. They want to know how much sugar is in a product, whether it’s organic, if it has artificial ingredients, or if it offers any nutritional value at all. For many traditional chocolate brands, this puts them in a tough spot. The taste that people grew up with might not match what the new generation wants.
 
This has led to a demand for sugar-free, vegan, organic, and high-cocoa-content options, but not all companies are equipped to make that transition easily. It also means marketing has to shift — selling indulgence isn’t enough anymore. There has to be some balance between health and pleasure.
 

Intense Competition from All Sides

There’s a lot of competition in the UAE chocolate market — not just from global names like Cadbury, Mars, and Ferrero, but also from local players like Al Nassma (famous for their camel milk chocolate) and boutique brands like Mirzam and Varlhona partners that focus on small-batch, ethically sourced products.
 
Supermarkets are packed with options. E-commerce platforms are flooded with deals. Luxury stores offer personalized gift boxes with gold foil wrapping. It’s no longer just about quality — it’s also about differentiation. And in a space this saturated, standing out is tough. You either go big on branding and luxury appeal, or you go niche with health-focused or artisanal products.
Smaller producers, especially, have to work twice as hard to carve out a space. They often rely on word-of-mouth, Instagram visibility, and seasonal pop-ups — which can work, but require serious effort and consistency.
 

Key Trends Shaping the UAE Chocolate Market

Understanding where the chocolate market is headed means looking at more than just who’s selling what — it’s about what people are actually buying, why they’re buying it, and how their expectations are shifting. In the UAE, this shift is happening fast, and the trends are pretty clear.
 

A Growing Appetite for Premium and Artisanal Chocolate

There’s no doubt that premium and luxury chocolates are having their moment. It’s not just about buying chocolate — it’s about buying an experience. People are drawn to rich flavor profiles, elegant packaging, ethical sourcing, and the story behind the brand. They want to know where the cocoa came from, how it was processed, and whether it’s handcrafted.
 
This is especially visible in urban centers like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where consumers are becoming more selective. Artisanal brands like Mirzam have done well by tapping into this market — offering single-origin chocolates, small-batch production, and exotic ingredients, all presented in designer-style wrapping.
 
Gifting also plays a huge role here. Premium chocolates are seen not just as a treat, but as something you give when you want to make an impression. Whether it’s corporate gifting, weddings, or holidays like Ramadan and Eid, people are willing to spend more for something that feels exclusive and well-thought-out.
 

Health-Conscious Choices Are Becoming More Mainstream

As awareness about diet, wellness, and lifestyle diseases increases in the UAE, chocolate preferences are shifting. While milk chocolate still dominates in terms of volume, there’s rising interest in:
  • Dark chocolate with higher cocoa content (70% and above)
  • Sugar-free and diabetic-friendly options
  • Vegan, organic, and plant-based variants
  • Chocolates with added functional ingredients like nuts, superfoods, or probiotics
 
Even larger brands are starting to reformulate their products or introduce separate lines to cater to this growing demand. The old idea of chocolate being a “guilty pleasure” is slowly evolving into something more balanced — indulgent, but still mindful.
 

Creative and Sustainable Packaging Is Winning Attention

Packaging is no longer just a wrapper. In a market like the UAE — where aesthetics, presentation, and detail matter — how chocolate looks on the shelf (or in a gift box) often determines whether someone buys it.
 
Brands are responding with innovative, eco-friendly, and highly personalized packaging. Think biodegradable boxes, reusable tins, or sleek minimalist designs that feel luxurious. Some high-end retailers even offer customized packaging with names, company logos, or handpicked flavors — especially popular during gifting seasons.
 
Sustainability also plays into this. More consumers are aware of packaging waste, and even in a market that leans heavily toward luxury, there’s growing demand for chocolates that don’t just taste good — they look good and feel responsible.
American-Chocolate-Bar-Brands in Dubai, UAE | Radad International

How the Chocolate Market Looks Across the UAE

Dubai: The Heart of Premium Chocolate Retail

Dubai leads the way when it comes to chocolate sales in the UAE, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a city built for commerce, luxury, and global tourism — all of which directly benefit the chocolate industry.
 
People in Dubai have both the appetite and the budget for premium and luxury chocolates. According to the Dubai Statistics Center, the city had a GDP per capita of around $43,000 in 2022, making it one of the wealthiest globally. That kind of purchasing power shows up in how much people are willing to spend — especially during events like Ramadan, National Day, and the holiday season, where gift-giving peaks.
 
Tourism also plays a big role. Dubai welcomed over 16 million visitors in 2022, many of whom treat chocolates as must-buy souvenirs. Add to that the rise of e-commerce and home delivery services, and you have a market that’s highly dynamic and responsive.
 

Abu Dhabi: Quietly Powerful and Rapidly Growing

Abu Dhabi doesn’t get as much attention as Dubai, but in terms of chocolate market growth, it’s catching up fast. The capital city has its own wealthy population, a growing focus on luxury retail, and a culture that values hospitality and gifting — all good news for chocolate sellers.
 
Abu Dhabi is also a major events hub. International attractions like the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Abu Dhabi Art, and other cultural festivals bring in tourists, expats, and locals who spend on food and luxury items — including chocolate. In 2022, the emirate attracted over 11 million visitors, many of whom shop in high-end retail stores, particularly for luxury and local chocolates.
 
There’s also strong demand from locals and long-term expats who favor boutique brands, organic products, and camel milk chocolate — a niche product that’s seeing growing interest thanks to companies like Al Nassma.
 

Sharjah: Family-Oriented Market with Steady Demand

Sharjah has a more traditional vibe compared to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and that’s reflected in how chocolate is consumed here. The market leans more toward mid-range and affordable brands, and supermarkets play a bigger role than boutique stores.
 
That said, Sharjah’s younger population and growing middle class are creating space for change. Families still buy chocolates regularly — for kids, for gifting, and for celebrations — but price sensitivity is higher. Brands that offer value for money do well here, and well-packaged milk chocolates dominate most sales.
 
There’s also interest in locally made or regional brands that offer halal-certified or health-conscious options, especially during Ramadan and Eid.
 

Ajman and Umm Al Quwain: Smaller Markets, Focused on Essentials

Ajman and Umm Al Quwain are smaller emirates with lower overall commercial activity, but they still maintain a steady demand for chocolate, especially through supermarkets and convenience stores. Chocolate here is less about luxury and more about daily enjoyment — simple bars, family packs, and reasonably priced boxed chocolates.
 
The market here is price-driven, and promotions often play a big role in pushing sales. While premium options are available in selected areas, these regions mostly cater to budget-conscious consumers, particularly blue-collar workers and large families.
 

Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah: A Growing Tourist and Local Base

Both Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah are seeing more tourism thanks to their natural attractions and growing resort scenes. With that comes a slow but steady rise in demand for chocolates — especially among hotel guests and tourists looking for small gifts or indulgences.
 
Fujairah, in particular, has been investing in retail infrastructure, which helps chocolate brands reach new audiences. And as lifestyle standards rise across these emirates, there’s more room for mid-range and premium chocolate brands to build a presence.
 
Locals and expats here still lean toward milk chocolate, and while the volume may be lower than Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the growth potential is promising.
 

Segmenting the Chocolate Market in the UAE: What People Are Buying and How

By Product Type: Milk Still Rules, But Dark Chocolate Is Gaining Ground

In the UAE, milk chocolate continues to dominate the market. Its sweeter taste and creamy texture appeal to a wider audience — from kids to adults, locals to expats. For everyday snacking, casual gifting, and even large events, milk chocolate is the most popular choice. It’s also the go-to option for retailers because of its versatility and consistent demand.
 
However, there’s been a noticeable shift — especially in urban areas — toward dark chocolate. This is mostly driven by health-conscious consumers who are looking for options with less sugar, higher cocoa content, and natural ingredients. Dark chocolate is often perceived as a “smarter indulgence,” and brands that offer 70% cocoa and above are finding a growing market among younger adults and working professionals.
 
White chocolate still holds a smaller share. It has a more niche fan base and is often used in seasonal products or creative flavors, especially during holidays or in high-end gifting sets. It doesn’t see the same everyday demand as milk chocolate but plays its part in diversifying product lines.
 

By Distribution Channel: Supermarkets Dominate, But Online Retail Is Catching Up

Supermarkets are still the number one place where people buy chocolate in the UAE. Stores like Carrefour, Lulu, and Spinneys stock a huge variety — from economy brands to premium gift boxes — making them a one-stop shop for most consumers. Promotions, bundles, and in-store visibility also help drive volume sales.
 
But over the past few years, online retail has made serious progress. Platforms like Amazon UAE, Noon, and brand-specific websites have become popular, especially for premium and luxury chocolate. Many shoppers prefer ordering online for birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate gifting — particularly when temperature-controlled delivery and customization are offered.
 
Convenience stores (like Zoom, Circle K, and petrol station shops) are strong for impulse purchases. Think small bars, snacks, and on-the-go treats. While the average order size here is small, the volume is significant due to foot traffic.
 

By Packaging Type: Bars for Everyday, Boxes for Gifting

When it comes to packaging, chocolate bars lead the way. They’re simple, portable, and easy to fit into any lifestyle — whether it’s a school lunch, an office drawer, or a quick supermarket run. Bars also allow for a wide range of pricing, which appeals to different budget levels.
 
But when people are buying chocolate to give, boxed packaging wins. Whether it’s a sleek luxury set or a festive holiday box, presentation matters — especially in a market where gifting is part of the culture. Brands invest heavily in elegant, artistic, and even reusable packaging to make sure their products feel premium and memorable.
 
Other packaging types — like pouches or mini-bags — are catching on, particularly among younger consumers who like resealable, portion-controlled snacks. These are often seen in health-conscious or specialty chocolate lines.
Top UAE chocolate brands | Radad International

Key Players, New Innovations, and What the Future Looks Like

When you walk into a chocolate shop or even a large supermarket in the UAE, you’re likely seeing the work of some of the biggest names in the global chocolate world — Lindt, Mars, Cadbury, Ferrero, and Godiva, to name a few. These are household names everywhere, and they’ve built strong roots in the UAE market by offering both familiarity and quality.
 
But what’s really interesting is the rise of local and regional brands. Companies like Patchi, Al Nassma, and Mirzam are offering something different — a more localized experience that reflects the tastes, values, and culture of the UAE. For example, Al Nassma became known for using camel milk chocolate, giving a distinct flavor that represents the region. Mirzam, on the other hand, has carved out a space with single-origin chocolates and unique ingredients, often telling a story through their packaging and sourcing.
 
There’s also a growing number of specialty producers working with premium imported cocoa powder and cocoa beans, including ingredients like alkalized cocoa powder and natural cocoa powder sourced through trusted suppliers such as Radad International. This is especially important for smaller chocolatiers who want consistency and quality but don’t have the infrastructure to handle global sourcing themselves.
 

What’s New in the UAE Chocolate Market?

The UAE chocolate market isn’t just expanding — it’s evolving. Here are a few recent developments worth noting:
  • In October 2023, Mirzam expanded their production facility in Dubai to meet the rising demand for small-batch, artisanal chocolate.
 
  • Patchi launched a luxury gifting line in mid-2023, combining personalized packaging with exclusive flavors targeted at high-net-worth customers.
 
  • In a clever move, Al Nassma rolled out a new range of camel milk chocolates with added health benefits, aiming to connect with the rising health-conscious crowd.
 
  • The government also made moves — like reducing import tariffs on certain cocoa products in February 2023, making it easier for new and existing brands to bring in quality raw materials at better prices.
 

The Road Ahead: Growth With Nuance

The numbers are promising — the UAE chocolate market is expected to reach $2.35 billion by 2032, but the future is not just about growth for growth’s sake. It’s going to be about adapting. Consumer tastes are changing. People are asking more questions about what’s in their food, where it comes from, and how it was made. That puts pressure on producers, but also opens the door for new ideas and better-quality products.
 
We’ll likely see more:
  • Healthy and functional chocolates (low sugar, high cocoa, organic ingredients)
  • Ethical sourcing, with brands showing more transparency about their supply chains
  • Sustainable packaging as environmental awareness grows
  • Local manufacturing and regional product development, especially from boutique brands
 

Where UAE Chocolate Brands Source Their Raw Ingredients

Behind every chocolate bar, truffle, or gift box in the UAE is a complex supply chain that starts far beyond the Gulf. While the final product might be wrapped and sold locally, most of the raw materials — especially cocoa beans and their derivatives — are imported from cocoa-producing regions like West Africa, Latin America, and parts of Southeast Asia.

The Cocoa Journey: From Bean to Chocolate

Cocoa is the heart of all chocolate. And in the UAE, where there’s no local cocoa farming due to climate limitations, manufacturers rely entirely on imported cocoa beans. These beans are typically roasted and processed into cocoa liquor (or cocoa mass), cocoa butter, and cocoa powder, which are then used in chocolate production.
 
UAE-based chocolate makers use both natural cocoa powder and alkalized cocoa powder (also known as Dutch-processed cocoa), depending on the flavor profile and application. Natural cocoa powder has a lighter color and a sharper, more acidic taste — often used in recipes where a strong chocolate flavor is needed without added processing. Alkalized cocoa, on the other hand, is treated with an alkaline solution to neutralize its acidity. It has a smoother, milder flavor and a darker appearance, which makes it a popular choice for premium and gourmet chocolates.
 

Where Do the Ingredients Come From?

Most UAE chocolate companies — whether artisanal brands like Mirzam or larger manufacturers — source their cocoa beans from top cocoa-producing countries like Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, and Ecuador. These regions supply a significant share of the world’s cocoa and are known for their distinct bean characteristics, which influence everything from aroma to flavor depth.
 
For more specialized ingredients like alkalized cocoa powder, brands often work with global suppliers or certified cocoa exporters who handle processing and quality control at origin. Some companies in the UAE have begun to prioritize traceability and ethical sourcing — choosing suppliers who offer single-origin beans or can certify fair trade and sustainable farming practices.
 
One such supplier making its mark is Radad International, which sources high-quality cocoa ingredients like natural cocoa powder, alkalized cocoa powder, and bulk cocoa beans from trusted farms in West Africa, especially Nigeria. By focusing on quality, ethical sourcing, and consistency, companies like Radad help meet the growing demand for fine ingredients in the UAE’s rapidly maturing chocolate market. Whether the end product is a mass-market bar or a limited-edition artisanal blend, the quality of the raw cocoa makes all the difference.
 

The Role of Cocoa Processing in the UAE Market

Although cocoa beans aren’t grown locally, some processing does happen within the region — especially blending, refining, and product development. UAE-based chocolate producers take the imported powders and butters and create tailored recipes that suit the tastes of their target market — whether that’s milk-heavy blends, low-sugar options, or high-cocoa-content dark chocolates.
 
As the market grows, there’s increasing interest in having better control over the cocoa supply — not just in terms of cost, but also quality and origin transparency. For chocolate brands that want to stand out, choosing the right cocoa supplier has become just as important as marketing or packaging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the UAE Chocolate Market

❓Where do UAE chocolate manufacturers source their cocoa from?

Most chocolate producers in the UAE import their cocoa beans from major cocoa-producing countries such as Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, and Ecuador. Since cocoa farming isn’t feasible in the UAE’s climate, all primary ingredients — including natural cocoa powder, alkalized cocoa powder, and cocoa butter — are brought in from international suppliers. Sourcing depends on the type of chocolate being produced and the quality level a brand aims to maintain.
 

❓What is the difference between natural cocoa powder and alkalized cocoa powder?

Natural cocoa powder is made from roasted cocoa beans and retains a slightly acidic, sharp flavor. It’s often used in recipes that include baking soda for leavening.
Alkalized cocoa powder, also known as Dutch-processed cocoa, is treated with an alkaline solution to neutralize acidity. This gives it a milder taste and a darker color, which makes it ideal for premium chocolates, rich desserts, and gourmet confectionery. Both types are widely used in the UAE depending on the product type.
 

❓Is there a local UAE supplier of cocoa products for chocolate manufacturers?

While most raw cocoa products are imported, some UAE-based companies specialize in supplying cocoa ingredients to local chocolate brands. One example is Radad International, which sources and supplies high-quality alkalized cocoa powder, natural cocoa powder, and bulk cocoa beans — particularly from West Africa. Companies like these help smaller and mid-sized chocolate producers access quality raw materials with better consistency and supply reliability.
 

❓Why is milk chocolate more popular than dark chocolate in the UAE?

Milk chocolate remains the top-selling variety in the UAE due to its creamy texture and sweet taste, which appeals to a wide demographic, including children, families, and casual consumers. It’s also the preferred option for gifting and daily consumption. However, interest in dark chocolate is growing, especially among health-conscious consumers and younger adults who are seeking low-sugar, high-cocoa options.
 

❓Are there health-conscious chocolate options available in the UAE?

Yes, and the demand is rising. Many brands now offer sugar-free, vegan, organic, and high-cocoa-content chocolates. Some companies have also introduced functional chocolate — with added nutrients, superfoods, or probiotics — targeting health-conscious buyers who want to enjoy chocolate with fewer compromises.
 

❓What role does packaging play in the UAE chocolate market?

Packaging is a big deal in the UAE. Chocolates are often bought as gifts for personal and corporate events, so presentation matters. Brands focus on luxurious, eco-friendly, and sometimes customizable packaging to stand out. During festive seasons like Ramadan or Eid, well-packaged chocolates can make or break a sale. Sustainability is also gaining importance, especially among premium consumers.
 

❓How does tourism impact chocolate sales in the UAE?

Tourism has a huge influence, especially in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. With millions of international visitors each year, chocolates — especially premium ones — are commonly purchased as souvenirs or gifts. Retailers in malls, hotels, and airports cater heavily to tourists, offering luxury chocolate collections, regional specialties (like camel milk chocolate), and branded gift boxes.
 

❓Are online chocolate sales growing in the UAE?

Yes. Online retail is becoming a major sales channel for chocolate in the UAE, particularly for premium and customized products. Brands now offer delivery services with temperature control, gift wrapping, and subscription models. The convenience of buying online — especially for corporate gifting and special occasions — is helping this segment grow fast.
 

❓What are the biggest challenges facing chocolate producers in the UAE?

The main challenges include:
  • Rising costs of imported ingredients like cocoa beans and butter
  • Health awareness causing some decline in traditional sugar-heavy chocolate sales
  • Strong competition from both global brands and local artisanal producers
  • The need for differentiation through product innovation, ethical sourcing, and unique brand storytelling
 

❓What trends should new chocolate brands in the UAE pay attention to?

New and small brands should focus on:
  • Health-focused recipes (e.g. dark chocolate, low-sugar options)
  • Ethical sourcing and clear traceability of cocoa ingredients
  • Premium packaging with sustainability in mind
  • Leveraging festive and gifting culture
  • Building a strong online presence to reach consumers directly
  • Working with trusted ingredient suppliers like Radad International to ensure consistent quality
 
The bottom line is: chocolate is not just here to stay in the UAE — it’s becoming more meaningful, more intentional, and more diverse. From luxury gift boxes to healthy snack bars, there’s room for almost every kind of product — as long as it respects what today’s buyers really care about: quality, story, and value.
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