The idea of gifting this Christmas is the talk of the town currently, not only in the UAE but globally. Given the larger pool of the expat community, people are making calls to get their gifting set. While hampers and Christmas markets are in the buzz, there’s one key highlight: what kind of delicacies do UAE residents prefer gifting? A report suggests 57% of UAE folks look for vegan, healthier gifting options when doing this needful. Why this shift?
Kashyap Sajnani, Co-founder and Managing Director of VEGO Cafe and Confectionery, highlighted that festive gifting in the UAE is unique, as it reflects the diverse cultural fabric of the region.
“For many expats, gifting is not just a tradition but a way to stay connected to their roots and celebrate their heritage. It creates a sense of belonging and turns Dubai into a home away from home. While international orders remain an untapped market for us, we see gifting as a beautiful bridge between loved ones, especially within the tight-knit communities people create here,” Sajnani noted.
Given all the buzz about choosing mindful options for gifts, Kashyap elaborates, “Absolutely, we’ve noticed a significant rise in the demand for healthy gifting options, especially vegan products.”
The rise of intake is shifting to acai recipes, nuts and seeds, oats, lentils, berries, and avocados.
The awareness around plant-based and refined sugar-free alternatives has grown tremendously, and customers are more mindful about what they gift.
“Another interesting trend we’ve observed is the shift away from alcohol-based offerings, with people still wanting to embrace the festive spirit. Our non-alcoholic mulled drink, for instance, has been incredibly well-received, providing the perfect festive touch without compromising on tradition or inclusivity,” concluded Kashyap.
There are many trends that have taken center stage in terms of corporate gifting as well. What’s changed from last year is that residents are opting for poised, extremely dainty gifting options that add value.
Image Credits: Supplied
