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FROM FARM TO SHELF: THE CASE FOR SOURCING CLOSER TO HOME

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6 months ago

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Words by Firas Nasir, CEO of Organic Foods & Café and Co-CIO of the Gulf Japan Food Fund

The most consequential changes in business rarely announce themselves. They accumulate quietly in procurement decisions, in vendor reviews, and in sourcing conversations held far from the shop floor. What is happening inside UAE retail supply chains at the moment is exactly that kind of change. In the past, retailers across all formats built their vendor lists around established global suppliers who could deliver volume, compliance maturity, and operational consistency at scale. Local producers, by contrast, sometimes struggled to meet the benchmarks that major buyers required: reliable cold chain infrastructure, internationally recognised food safety certification, and the capacity to scale supply without compromising on delivery windows.

That gap has narrowed considerably, and the timing matters. Investment in UAE logistics infrastructure, including temperature-controlled warehousing, last-mile refrigerated delivery, and the development of alternative trade corridors, such as the Oman-UAE Green Corridor and the east coast ports of Khorfakkan and Fujairah, has given domestic suppliers a credible and sustainable path to retail shelves that simply did not exist half a decade ago.

The impact is most visible at retailers who made early commitments to domestic sourcing. For instance, Organic Foods and Cafe, which works with over 400 vendor partners across local and global supply chains, has tracked the evolution closely. Over the past four years, the composition of its vendor list has shifted meaningfully, with a clear move toward sourcing from closer geographies. This has improved product availability, reduced transit times, and meaningfully lowered the carbon footprint across key categories. The transitions have been most pronounced in beverages, fresh produce, and dairy, categories where domestic producers have invested seriously in quality and consistency. The products now earning space on shelves reflect genuine operational maturity, not simply a preference for local origin. Organic eggs from Risha Farms in Fujairah and fresh organic milk from Organiliciouz in Sharjah, both now stocked consistently, represent a generation of domestic suppliers that would not have met major retailer requirements a few years ago. Alongside them, homegrown brands, including ME Kombucha, Pure Harvest, Humantra, Nothing Silly, and Shake Your Plants, are finding sustained footing in channels that once defaulted to international names as a matter of course.

The broader retail sector is also responding. The Make it in the Emirates initiative, a government-led effort to boost domestic manufacturing and industrial investment initiative, has added meaningful policy weight to what was already becoming commercial common sense, with approved vendor lists across the industry being reviewed through a lens of supply chain resilience rather than simple cost optimisation. That recalibration has been sharpened further by recent events. Retailers who have already embedded local sourcing into their models have proved markedly better positioned to absorb the shock. Alternative freight channels were activated where necessary, but the businesses least exposed were those that had built domestic supplier relationships before disruption made it urgent.

Of course, challenges still remain. The shortage of organically certified local producers is a persistent gap, and the expectation from retailers has not softened, with domestic suppliers held to the same delivery, safety, and scalability standards as their international counterparts. But the pipeline of producers meeting that bar is growing, and the commercial argument has become difficult to dismiss. Faster turnaround, extended shelf life on domestic fresh goods, and meaningful resilience against freight volatility now outweigh the scale advantages that international suppliers once held unchallenged.

The restructuring of UAE retail around homegrown brands was already underway but the current geopolitical situation has expedited it to a new level. It is now being driven by hard commercial experience, enabled by maturing infrastructure, and supported by national policy. And the businesses that recognise it for what it is – a fundamental supply chain shift, not a sourcing trend – will be the ones who shape what UAE retail looks like in the decade ahead.

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Hospitality

The Best Festive Turkey Takeaways in Abu Dhabi This Christmas

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7 hours ago

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November 10, 2026

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Christmas dinner without the hours in the kitchen? Yes, please! From perfectly roasted turkeys with all the traditional trimmings to indulgent festive sides and delicious desserts, some of Abu Dhabi’s finest hotels and restaurants are taking care of the cooking this Christmas. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or planning a cosy celebration at home, these festive turkey takeaway offers make it easy to serve up a memorable Christmas feast without the fuss. Here’s our pick of the best turkey takeaways in Abu Dhabi for Christmas 2026.

Hawksbill Restaurant Festive Turkey Takeaway

Bring Christmas home with Hawksbill Restaurant’s Festive Turkey Takeaway, freshly prepared for an easy festive gathering around the table. Whether planning Christmas lunch with the family, hosting friends over the festive period, or simply leaving the cooking to someone else this year, the takeaway brings together everything needed for a classic Christmas feast.

A whole roast turkey comes with a selection of traditional seasonal sides and all the trimmings, ready to collect and serve at home.

Price: AED 599 (serves 6 to 8). AED 35 per additional side. Member discounts apply. Advance booking is required.

When: Saturday, 21 November 2026 to Thursday, 31st December 2026, 12pm – 11pm

For more info, call +971 56 660 8780 or email fnb.sbgc@viyagolf.com

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, Festive Turkey Takeaway

Bring The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal to the Christmas table with a festive turkey prepared by the hotel’s culinary team and ready to enjoy at home. The whole roasted turkey comes with traditional stuffing, rich gravy, and roasted root vegetables, leaving more time to spend around the table with family and friends.

Available from Monday, 21 December 2026, to Saturday, 2 January 2027, orders should be placed at least 48 hours in advance.

Price: AED 750 per turkey hamper (serves 6 to 8)

When: Monday, 21 December 2026, to Sunday, 2 January 2027. Orders must be placed 48 hours in advance
For reservations, call +971 2 818 8203 or email abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com

Villa Sèléne Festive Turkey Takeaway

Take care of Christmas lunch with Villa Sèléne at Yas Links Abu Dhabi’s Festive Turkey Takeaway. Prepared by the culinary team and ready for collection, the whole roast turkey comes with a selection of classic festive sides and accompaniments, leaving little more to do than gather family and friends around the table and enjoy it together.

Price: AED 599 (serves 6 to 8); AED 35 per additional side. Member discounts apply. Advance booking is required

When: Saturday, 21 November 2026 to Thursday, 31 December 2026, 12pm – 11pm

For more info, call +971 54 990 4246 or email villa.selene@viyagolf.com


Roots Bar & Kitchen Festive Turkey Takeaway

Bring the festive feast home with Roots Bar & Kitchen’s Festive Turkey Takeaway, made for Christmas gatherings with family and friends. Serving approximately six to eight guests, the package includes a generous 5-6 kg whole roast turkey, freshly prepared and ready for collection, alongside all the classic trimmings.

The turkey comes with chestnut stuffing, seasonal vegetables, roasted carrots and potatoes, cranberry sauce, and turkey gravy for a traditional Christmas spread at home. For a little extra around the table, additional sides can be added to the order, including herb and bread stuffing, bread sauce, mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and more.

Price: AED 599 (serves 6 to 8); AED 35 per additional side. Member discounts apply. Orders must be placed at least 48 hours in advance
When: Monday, 21 November 2026 to Thursday, 31 December 2026, 12pm – 10pm
For more info, call +971 50 757 4808 or email dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com

InterContinental Abu Dhabi Festive Turkey Takeaway
Take the stress out of Christmas entertaining with a traditional festive turkey, freshly prepared by the culinary team at InterContinental Abu Dhabi. Available to order from either the hotel or residences, the generous whole roasted turkey (5–7kg) comes with all the classic accompaniments, including traditional bread stuffing, roasted baby potatoes, buttered seasonal vegetables, rich turkey gravy, and cranberry sauce. For a sweet finish, guests can add a pumpkin cheesecake, apple cinnamon pie or pecan and caramel tart, each serving approximately five to six people.

Price: AED 550 per whole roasted turkey (5–7kg) and accompaniments; optional desserts: Pumpkin Cheesecake AED 200, Apple Cinnamon Pie AED 180, Pecan & Caramel Tart AED 230. Orders must be placed at least 48 hours in advance.
When: Thursday, 26 November 2026, to Friday, 25 December 2026.
For InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel turkey takeaways, order and collect from Piano Lounge; for InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi turkey takeaways, order and collect from Bistro 81. For more information or bookings call Piano Lounge +971 56 409 4980 or Bistro 81 +971 50 391 5271

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Qatar Airways Connects Doha to Caracas, Venezuela, and Bogotá, Colombia with First Flight

Published

8 hours ago

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November 10, 2026

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Qatar Airways has inaugurated its new twice-weekly service connecting Doha with Caracas and Bogotá. The service represents a significant milestone for the airline, as Qatar Airways becomes the first Gulf carrier to serve Venezuela, and the first airline to operate nonstop services from the Middle East to both Bogotá and Caracas.

The new route underscores the airline’s commitment to strengthening global connectivity for the region and is operated on Boeing 777-200LR aircraft.

Qatar Airways flights to Caracas (CCS) and Bogotá (BOG)

Qatar Airways’ flight schedule has been designed to provide smooth onward connections through Hamad International Airport to key markets including Australia, China, Japan, Lebanon, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. This offers passengers greater flexibility and seamless transfer options across Qatar Airways’ global network of over 170 destinations.

Departing every Wednesday and Sunday:

Doha (DOH) to Bogotá (BOG) – Flight QR783: Departure 07:35; Arrival 16:25

Bogotá (BOG) to Caracas (CCS) – Flight QR783: Departure 17:55; Arrival 21:00

Caracas (CCS) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR783: Departure 23:30; Arrival 20:35

The addition of Caracas and Bogotá marks the 16th and 17th destinations in the Americas served by Qatar Airways. The airline began serving South America in 2010 with its inaugural flight to Brazil’s São Paulo.

The airline has recently expanded its partnership with LATAM to include LATAM Airlines Colombia, offering travellers greater access to the region. Qatar Airways will place its code on LATAM-operated flights between Bogotá and key domestic destinations including Cartagena, Armenia, Barranquilla, Bucaramanga, Cali, Cúcuta, Ibagué, Leticia, Medellín, Montería, Neiva, Pereira, Pasto, Riohacha, San Andrés Island, Santa Marta, and Yopal.

Qatar Airways continues to strengthen global connectivity, serving more than 170 destinations this winter. Bookings can be made at qatarairways.com or through the airline’s mobile app.

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GET INTO THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: THE BEST FESTIVE ACTIVITIES IN ABU DHABI

Published

9 hours ago

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November 10, 2026

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Christmas is coming, and Abu Dhabi is getting ready to celebrate! From magical Christmas tree-lighting ceremonies and a charming festive market to gingerbread house decorating, breakfast with Santa, and an indulgent festive afternoon tea, there’s plenty to look forward to this December. Whether you’re planning a fun family outing, a festive afternoon with friends or simply looking to soak up a little Christmas cheer, here are some of the best festive activities to add to your calendar this season.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at InterContinental Abu Dhabi

Christmas celebrations begin at InterContinental Abu Dhabi on 9 December with the hotel’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Bringing families and friends together for a festive waterfront evening, this much-loved tradition sets the scene for the celebrations ahead.

When: Wednesday, 9 December 2026, 5:30pm
Price: Complimentary
Where: Marina Garden, InterContinental Abu Dhabi

Christmas Tree Lighting and Festive Buffet at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club
Celebrate the start of the festive season with the Christmas Tree Lighting at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, bringing family and friends together for a warm evening of Christmas cheer. Watch as the tree lights up for the season while enjoying a festive buffet, festive fun with Santa and a lively atmosphere made for all ages.

With plenty of time to dine, celebrate, and soak up the festivities, it’s an easy way to get into the Christmas spirit and enjoy a little seasonal magic with the whole family.

When: Friday, 11 December 2026, 7pm – 10pm
Price: AED 219 per person (soft package); AED 344 per person (house package); AED 69 per child (aged 5 to 12 years). Free for kids under 5.
Where: Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island

Christmas Tree Lighting and Festive BBQ Buffet at Yas Links Abu Dhabi

The festive season begins on the lawn at Yas Links Abu Dhabi, as the Christmas tree lights up for an evening with family and friends. A BBQ buffet sets the table for the celebrations, accompanied by festive entertainment and activities for younger guests. With the lawns of Yas Links as the backdrop, it’s a relaxed evening of good food, Christmas cheer, and time spent together.

When: Friday, 18 December 2026, 7pm – 10pm

Price: AED 219 per person (soft package); AED 344 per person (house package); AED 69 per child (aged 6 to 12 years); Free (kids under 6 years). Member discounts apply. Advance booking is required

Where: Yas Links Abu Dhabi Lawn, Yas Links, Yas Island

Christmas Tree Lighting and Festive Buffet at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
Christmas celebrations begin at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting, bringing family and friends together for an evening outdoors. Guests can gather for the official lighting of the tree before enjoying a festive buffet, Christmas music, and seasonal entertainment.

Younger guests can look forward to dedicated activities throughout the evening, while families and friends have plenty of time to catch up over dinner. A much-loved annual tradition, the Christmas tree lighting marks the start of the festive calendar at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.

When: Saturday, 19 December 2026, from 7pm

Price: AED 219 per person (soft package); AED 344 per person (house package); AED 69 per child (aged 6 to 12 years); Free (kids under 6 years)

Where: Saadiyat Beach Golf Club Lobby, Saadiyat Island

For more info, call +971 56 660 8780 or email fnb.sbgc@viyagolf.com

Festive Market by the Marina
This festive season, the Marina Garden at InterContinental Abu Dhabi transforms into a charming Christmas market over two consecutive weekends, bringing a little festive magic to the waterfront. Wander between stalls filled with Christmas gifts, handmade crafts and festive treats; pick up something special from local vendors; or enjoy a glass of mulled wine and seasonal favourites as live acoustic music sets the mood. With twinkling lights, festive flavours and plenty for all ages to enjoy, it’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon or evening by the marina with family and friends.

When: Friday, 11 December 2026, to Sunday, 13 December 2026, and Friday, 18 December 2026, to Sunday, 20 December 2026
Where: Marina Garden, InterContinental Abu Dhabi

For more information, call +971 55 242 0542

Festive High Tea at Alba
Set beneath the soaring ceilings of the lobby lounge, Alba’s Festive High Tea adds a festive flourish to the hotel’s signature afternoon ritual. Delicate savoury and sweet treats are served alongside each guest’s preferred tea blend, with seasonal aromas adding to the occasion. An afternoon designed for conversation, celebration, and the pleasure of sharing something special in the days leading up to Christmas.

When: Available daily from Tuesday, 15 December 2026, to Wednesday, 6 January 2027, 2pm – 5pm
Price: AED 190 per stand
Where: Alba, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

For reservations, call +971 2 818 8203 or email abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com

Gingerbread House Decorating at Giornotte
Young guests can put their creativity to work at Giornotte with a Christmas activity made for little hands. Guided by the hotel’s pastry chefs, children will decorate their own gingerbread houses with candy canes, cookies and marshmallows before taking their creation home – a cherished festive tradition given their own creative touch.

Gingerbread House Decorating: AED 200 per gingerbread house. Available daily from Tuesday, 15 December 2026, to Tuesday, 5 January 2027, excluding Friday, 25 and Thursday, 31 December 2026. Advance booking is required.

For reservations, call +971 2 818 8203 or email abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com

Breakfast with Santa


Start the festive celebrations with a family breakfast at Acres Grill House, complete with a special visit from Santa. Guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet with a selection of beverages before little ones get the chance to meet Santa and stop for a Christmas photo together.

Music and live entertainment will set the mood throughout the morning, while dedicated children’s activities offer plenty to keep younger guests busy. Made for the whole family to enjoy, it’s an easy way to spend a December morning together as Christmas Day draws closer.

FACT BOX:
What: Breakfast with Santa
Offer: AED 99 per adult; AED 60 per child (aged 6 to 12 years); free (kids under 6 years).
When: Sunday, 20 December, 9am to 12pm
Where: Roots Bar & Kitchen, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island
For more info, call +971 50 757 4808 or email dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com

Gingerbread House Workshop


Little ones can get creative this Christmas with a festive Gingerbread House Workshop at Grill House, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club. Each child will receive their own gingerbread house to decorate with icing, sprinkles and plenty of imagination, while hot chocolate, festive cookies, Christmas music and a little festive cheer from Santa add to the occasion. Designed as a fun afternoon for the whole family, the workshop gives children the chance to create their very own festive masterpiece and enjoy a little Christmas magic along the way.

FACT BOX:
What: Gingerbread House Workshop
Offer: AED 120 per child. Pre payment and pre booking is required.
When: Sunday, 13th December, 3pm to 5pm
Where: Acres Grill House, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island
For more info, call +971 50 757 4808 or email dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com

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