a day ago
UAE: Over 35 varieties of locally grown mangoes from Dh15 at Khorfakkan festival
Khorfakkan's Expo Centre was filled with the sweet aroma of ripe mangoes as farmers from across the UAE gathered under one roof to showcase their harvest. The Mango Festival saw more than 50 varieties of mangoes on display, with over 35 grown locally.
Dozens of farmers from areas like Badiya, Dibba, Kalba Fujairah, Khorfakkan and Masafi brought crates filled with mangoes of all shapes, sizes, and colours, from small yellow varieties to large green ones. Prices ranged from Dh15 to Dh70 per kilogramme, depending on size and type. Some mangoes weighed up to a kilogramme, while other ones are smaller with 10 weighing a kilogramme.
Syed Abdul Azeem, a farmer from Badiya who grows mangoes on his farm, said the UAE's climate and proper care allow mango trees to thrive.
'We have been growing mangoes for many years,' said Azeem. 'Our trees bear fruit throughout the year, not just in summer. I have nearly 100 mango trees, and we don't use any chemicals. Everything is organic, and that's why people keep coming back.'
Ripon Choudhary, who manages a farm in Dibba with more than 250 mango trees, said the festival was a chance for farmers like him to connect with people who value fresh, homegrown produce.
'People think mangoes only grow in India or Pakistan,' Ripon said. 'But here in the UAE, we have got great mangoes too. We work hard all year to take care of the trees, and it feels good when people come here and buy directly from us.'
Visitors from Fujairah, Sharjah, and Dubai flocked to the festival, many filling bags with fresh mangoes to take home. Families with children, elderly residents, and young fruit lovers gathered around the stalls, tasting slices and asking farmers about the different types.
'We came early to get the best ones,' said Asma, a Khorfakkan resident. 'I didn't know so many varieties were grown here. The mangoes are sweet and smell so good.'
The festival not only helped farmers sell their harvest directly but also gave them a platform to educate people about local produce. Farmers shared how they cared for the trees, the types they grow, and how organic farming is part of their tradition.
