Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce, organized the ‘Indian Mango Mania 2025’ in Abu Dhabi. Held at LuLu Hypermarket in Khalidiyah Mall, the programme aims to celebrate the richness of Indian mango varieties and connect Indian farmers with international markets, particularly in the Gulf region, where demand for Indian produce remains consistently high.
The event, a joint initiative by APEDA, the Indian Embassy in the UAE, and the Lulu Group, was timed perfectly with the peak of the mango season. It showcased an impressive array of premium Indian mangoes, including GI-tagged and regional favourites such as Dasheri, Banarasi Langda, Amrapali, Chausa, Sunderja, Bharat Bhog, Mallika, and Lakshman Bhog, each reflecting the rich mango-growing heritage of states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh.
India’s Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, inaugurated the promotion alongside Lulu Group Chairman Yusuff Ali M.A. and senior officials from APEDA and the Indian Embassy. Sudhir highlighted Lulu’s crucial role in promoting Indian fruits globally and praised APEDA’s efforts in helping farmers access new markets. “Through this mango festival, we bring the taste of India to homes across the Gulf,” he said.
The festival wasn’t just about displaying fresh fruit. Visitors were treated to a full-fledged mango experience, featuring an array of curated delicacies, from mango pastries, Swiss rolls, and macaroons to traditional Indian favourites like mango pulao, fish curry, and payasam. Adding an international twist, the menu also included fusion creations such as mango sushi, mango-stuffed chicken, and mango chapli kebabs. A variety of pickles, preserves, juices, and smoothies rounded off the tropical spread.
APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, in a message from India, said the authority had facilitated the airlifting of mangoes from key producing states, helping not just exports but also supporting the livelihoods of Indian farmers. “This initiative showcases India’s mango diversity while opening up new trade opportunities,” he said.
UAE continues to be the top destination for Indian mango exports. In 2024 alone, India exported over 12,000 metric tonnes of mangoes worth $20 million to the UAE, a figure expected to rise as Indian mangoes continue to charm global palates.
