Sri Lanka’s tea exports to UAE rise amid strong demand

Sri Lanka’s tea exports to the United Arab Emirates continued their upward trend in 2025, reaching 18.32 million kilograms, compared to 17.73 million kilograms in 2024—an increase of 3.3 per cent, according to a senior official.

Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the UAE, Dr. Arusha Cooray, said she expects tea exports to both the UAE and the wider GCC region to continue growing in the coming years, driven by strong demand for Ceylon tea and its global reputation for quality and authenticity.

Data further shows that Iraq remained the largest destination for Sri Lankan tea exports in 2025, accounting for 15.31% of total exports, followed by Russia at 8.39% and Türkiye at 8.27%.

The remarks were made at an International Tea Day celebration organised by the Sri Lankan Embassy in Abu Dhabi at the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Dr. Cooray highlighted the long-standing legacy of Sri Lankan tea, its contribution to the national economy, and its global recognition over the years.

She also outlined the distinct characteristics of tea produced across Sri Lanka’s seven tea-growing regions, the evolution of the industry, and its continued importance in global exports.

The event brought together over 75 participants, including senior UAE officials, ambassadors, tea importers, media representatives, and industry stakeholders.

Dr. Ahmed Mukhtar, FAO Representative to the UAE, attended as chief guest and highlighted the diversity of Ceylon tea, its sustainable cultivation methods, and its strong competitiveness in global markets.

Several leading Sri Lankan tea companies, including Dilmah, Akbar Tea, Ahmad Tea, Eswaran Brothers, and Stassen Tea, showcased their products at the event.

Guests also took part in a tea tasting session conducted by Mohamed Rikas, a certified tea master from Ahmad Tea, who introduced the unique flavour profiles of teas from Sri Lanka’s seven tea regions.

Product samples from the Sri Lanka Tea Board and exporters were displayed at the venue, and the event concluded with a networking session featuring traditional Sri Lankan canapés, Ceylon tea, and tea-based mocktails.

The event underscored the strong cultural and economic ties between Sri Lanka and the UAE while reinforcing the growing trade relationship between the two countries.