Dubai: The king of fruits, the mango, became the centerpiece of a vibrant celebration as people from around the globe gathered in Dubai over the weekend. The Pakistan Association Dubai hosted an event that drew thousands, transcending cultures and countries, united by their love for Pakistani mangoes.
A Mangolicious Gathering
The two-day event, aptly named “Connecting Hearts – the Mangolicious Way,” was a highlight not only for the Pakistani diaspora in Dubai but also for other expatriates eager to sample various mango varieties rarely found in local markets. The festival featured stage activities, contests, children’s games, mango-themed foods, and free mango products. Attendees also had the chance to purchase their favorite mangoes. The event was a collaborative effort between the Pakistan Association Dubai, the Pakistan Business Council, and the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai.
Mango Diplomacy
“The main purpose of the event is what is known as ‘mango diplomacy’,” explained Mariam Mumtaz from the Pakistan Association Dubai. “We’re in the 2nd edition now; the first one was held in 2022. On the first day, we invited ambassadors, consul generals, diplomats, business council members from over 20 countries, and dignitaries from the government of Dubai. On the second day, the event was open to the public with free entry.”
One of the most striking aspects of the festival was its diverse attendance. “I’ve met people from Iran, China, the UK, Belarus, and many others,” Mumtaz noted. “This event is helping to forge a more positive impact of Pakistan.”
Record-Breaking Attendance
The previous edition saw around 5,000 attendees, but this year, the number surpassed expectations as throngs of mango enthusiasts flocked to taste the popular fruit, particularly the chaunsa variety, a clear favorite. The event was inaugurated by Pakistan’s ambassador to the UAE, H.E. Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, and the Consul General of Pakistan, H.E. Hussain Muhammad.
“This is the most anticipated event of the year. Mangoes like citrus are indigenous to the Indus Valley, which constitutes Pakistan,” said Faisal Niaz Tirmizi. “The Pakistan mango festival is a great way of truly promoting diplomacy amongst the various diaspora here in the UAE via one of the most popular fruits,” added Pakistani expat Fahad Ali.
Economic Impact and Export Challenges
Pakistan is the world’s fourth-largest mango producer, with exports generating millions of dollars annually. However, recent years have seen a drop in both production and export targets due to adverse climate conditions and fruit fly infestations. Last year, Pakistan failed to meet its export target of 125,000 metric tons, leading to a scaled-down target this year.
Despite these challenges, the demand for Pakistani mangoes has surged in the Middle East, offering hope to exporters. The value of mangoes exported to the UAE rose from $27 million in 2022 to $31 million in 2023, suggesting a promising trend for this year as well.
However, the low yield has driven up mango prices in the UAE. Wholesale prices for a box of Sindhri mango, approximately 6kg, range from Dh28-30, while Chaunsa and Anwar Ratol are priced even higher.
A Festival of Flavor and Friendship
The Pakistan Mango Festival in Dubai not only celebrated the beloved fruit but also fostered cultural connections and promoted Pakistan’s rich agricultural heritage. As attendees savored the sweet, juicy mangoes, they also shared in a unique cultural experience that brought them closer together, proving once again that food has the power to unite people across the globe.
