Dubai recently hosted an event that showcased the “king of fruits,” bringing together people from various cultures and countries to enjoy the rich flavors of Pakistani mangoes.
Organized by the Pakistan Association Dubai, in collaboration with the Pakistan Business Council and the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai, the two-day festival titled “Connecting Hearts – the Mangolicious Way” became a focal point for thousands of attendees. The event highlighted the appeal of Pakistani mangoes, attracting both the Pakistani diaspora and other expats eager to sample different varieties of the fruit that are often hard to find in the market.
The festival featured a range of activities, including stage performances, contests, children’s activities, mango-related foods, and free mango products. Visitors also had the chance to purchase mangoes. The event emphasized “mango diplomacy,” aiming to foster positive cultural connections through the shared love of this popular fruit.
The festival’s second edition saw a significant turnout, surpassing the 5,000 attendees of the previous year. Among the attendees were ambassadors, consul generals, diplomats, business council members from over 20 countries, and dignitaries from the Dubai government. The event’s public day was open to all with free entry, attracting a diverse crowd from countries such as Iran, China, the UK, and Belarus.
The festival was inaugurated by Pakistan’s ambassador to the UAE, H.E Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, and the Consul General of Pakistan, H.E. Hussain Muhammad. In his speech, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi highlighted the significance of mangoes in Pakistani culture and their role in promoting diplomacy.
Pakistani expat Fahad Ali expressed pride in the country’s global influence through its rich-tasting mangoes, noting that Pakistan produces over 400 varieties of the fruit. Despite recent challenges in meeting export targets due to adverse climate conditions and fruit fly infestations, the demand for Pakistani mangoes in the Middle East remains strong. This optimism is reflected in the increased export values, with UAE imports rising from $27 million in 2022 to $31 million in 2023.
While the low yield has led to higher prices, the festival served as a testament to the enduring popularity and cultural significance of Pakistani mangoes, forging positive international connections and celebrating the rich heritage of the fruit.
