Source : WAM
DP World trade data indicates that retailers across the region consistently begin preparing food supplies well in advance of Ramadan, with significantly higher volumes of staple goods moving through Jebel Ali six to eight weeks before the holy month.
An analysis of average volumes from 2023 to 2025 shows that, compared with a typical month, rice imports increase by 25 percent, onions and garlic by 35 percent, nuts such as walnuts, almonds and pistachios by around 15 percent, and beverages including juices and soft drinks by about 5 percent.
Ramadan creates a brief but intense surge in household demand across the region. Building stocks early enables retailers to manage this demand smoothly, reduce supply pressures closer to the start of the month and keep shelves well stocked for iftar, suhoor and family gatherings, while also helping to maintain stable prices.
The pattern extends beyond food items. Imports of kitchenware and tableware rise by roughly 10 percent, while small kitchen appliances see a 9 percent increase, highlighting broader household preparations. Although part of the January uptick can be attributed to routine restocking after year-end, the consistent year-on-year trend underscores the influence of Ramadan-driven demand.
During this period, Jebel Ali functions as a key gateway and consolidation hub for goods arriving from Asia, the Indian Subcontinent and Europe. An integrated network of sea, air and land transport facilitates the swift movement of products to markets across the GCC and East Africa, even during the busy start of the year.
“Ramadan is a time when demand rises quickly. What we see each year is customers planning further ahead. By bringing ports, logistics and transport together through Jebel Ali, we are able to move goods early and keep supplies steady as demand increases across the region,” said Abdulla bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World GCC.
Operations during this period focus on handling a broad range of consumer goods, from packaged items to fresh, chilled and frozen products. Extended working hours and closer supply chain coordination help safeguard temperature-sensitive cargo and boost efficiency by more than 25 percent during peak periods.
Jebel Ali also plays a vital role in supporting exports ahead of Ramadan. In January and February, date exports increase by nearly 60 percent compared with a typical month, supplying neighbouring markets across the GCC and East Africa.
Last year, India, Morocco and Bangladesh were the primary destinations for date exports, accounting for 65 percent of total export volumes through Jebel Ali Port.
