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Eid Al Fitr 2026: UAE supermarkets roll out special discounts as grocery prices ease
Retailers credit strong local production and diversified imports as shoppers stock up on sweets, beverages and festive essentials
- PUBLISHED: Tue 17 Mar 2026, 5:00 AM UPDATED: Tue 17 Mar 2026, 7:44 AM
Shoppers across the UAE are preparing for Eid Al Fitr by stocking up on groceries, sweets, and beverages, as retailers say improved supply chains and local production are helping stabilise prices for key food items ahead of the festive period.
Supermarkets across the country have increased inventory levels in anticipation of higher demand, particularly for fresh produce, rice, sweets, and gift items commonly purchased for family gatherings and celebrations.
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Carlos Fatas Bermudez, general manager of Alaswaq Alwatania, said that while some products saw temporary price fluctuations earlier in the season, the market is quickly stabilising.
“Regarding fresh produce, we have seen some temporary increase in onions from India and tomatoes, especially as some of the tomatoes were previously sourced from Iran,” he said. “However, the market is adjusting quickly, and we are securing alternative supply sources. In the case of tomatoes, local production in the UAE is currently strong and sufficient to cover consumer demand.”
Retailers say strong local production and diversified sourcing are helping maintain supply and avoid disruptions during the busy Eid shopping period.
Kamal Vachani, deputy CEO and group director at Al Maya Group, said prices for some key vegetables have already begun easing.
“At the beginning of the period we observed some price fluctuations in onions and tomatoes,” he said. “However, the situation has now largely normalised. Supplies from Yemen and Egypt have arrived in strong volumes, helping bring onion prices down considerably, while locally grown tomatoes are also contributing to price stability.”
To support shoppers, supermarkets are also rolling out Eid promotions across multiple categories.
According to Bermudez, discounts of up to 40 per cent are being offered on sweets, chocolates, toys, and family products, along with promotions on essential grocery items.
“These offers are designed to support customers preparing for the celebrations,” he said.
Retailers report that demand typically rises significantly in the final days leading up to Eid, with shoppers purchasing items for hosting guests and preparing festive meals.
However, not all shoppers feel that promotions always translate into real savings. Mona Hassan, a Dubai resident, said she has noticed price changes during her recent grocery shopping trips and has become more selective about where she buys household supplies.
Mona said her family tends to simplify Eid preparations by ordering food from outside rather than preparing large meals at home to save time and manage costs.
“When it comes to Eid shopping, we usually buy beverages and chocolates in larger quantities,” she said.
She added that she prefers buying groceries from wholesale stores or shops in other emirates, where some items are sold individually at lower prices. According to Mona, many shoppers have also become more cautious about supermarket promotions and are now careful to compare prices before buying.
Supermarkets say strong supply planning and partnerships with suppliers and local farms are helping ensure shelves remain stocked and prices remain stable during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year.
Azza Al Ali is a reporter from Ras Al Khaimah, dedicated to sharing stories that bring the community’s voices to life. She’s passionate about connecting with people and highlighting what truly matters to them.