UAE: Demand for turkey up as many families celebrate Thanksgiving over long weekend

The demand for turkey increases as many families celebrate Thanksgiving in the UAE over the long weekend. This Thanksgiving weekend has been one of the strongest many eateries have seen in several years, with some seeing double-digit growth.

Thanksgiving is a holiday celebrated in various countries, primarily the United States and Canada, as a day for giving thanks for the preceding year's harvest and general well-being. It is usually celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, which fell on November 27 this year. However, in the UAE, many families are expected to celebrate the holiday during the long National Day weekend.

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According to experts, this demand is expected to increase in the lead up to Christmas 2025. “There has indeed been a steady increase in demand for turkey meals,” said Joe Dourans, Operations Manager at Rodeo Drive. “While Thanksgiving is traditionally a US holiday, more families in the UAE are embracing the occasion as a warm, communal celebration.

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Each year, we see more returning guests and larger group bookings, showing that the tradition is growing well beyond its original cultural roots.” The brand is offering a whole turkey or roulade with classic sides. The demand is not just for pre-prepared meals. “We have seen a big increase in demand for fresh turkeys this year for Thanksgiving celebrations, with high double-digit growth vs last year,” said Warwick Gird, General Manager of Marketing at Spinneys.

“The biggest growth has come from large turkeys in the 6-8 kg range, suggesting that customers are hosting large gatherings for the season.”  100% growth, According to Sajan Alex, CEO at Tablez Food Company, their brand Famous Dave’s has also seen a strong growth in demand.

The brand is offering an oak smoked turkey Feast to its customers for the fourth year in a row.  “This year we’ve seen high demand increase, with 100 percent growth compared to last year,” he said. “The UAE’s strong economic performance and positive consumer sentiment have played a big role, as individuals are more willing to spend on premium festive experiences.” He added that there's a significant surge in pre-orders.

“This comes especially from customers hosting larger gatherings who appreciate that the meal comes fully prepared with sides and sauces,” he said. Demand expected to rise. The experts unanimously agreed that they expected the demand for turkey to grow in the coming months. “We do anticipate demand will continue to grow, with customers increasingly looking for elevated side dishes to complement their festive centrepieces,” said Warwick. “New products in our sides range this year include truffled mashed potatoes and potatoes dauphinoise.

”Sajan added that although Thanksgiving remained their “peak season” for turkey, Christmas has also grown equally significant. “We also see interest during the UAE National Day long weekend and private celebrations, where customers want a special centrepiece for their gatherings,” he said.

“Turkey is becoming more than just a Thanksgiving tradition in the UAE —it’s now a go-to option for festive and celebratory meals. Joe added that the demand has been growing each year with an appetite for local influences. "We are seeing an interest in versions infused with local and regional flavours,” he said. “We are always exploring ways to incorporate subtle Middle Eastern touches while staying true to the dish’s festive essence.”

Nasreen Abdulla

nasreen@khaleejtimes.com

Nasreen Abdulla is a Special Correspondent covering food, tech and human interest stories. When not challenged by deadlines, you’ll find her pulling off submissions on the jiu jitsu mats.