Festivals in UAE begin to welcome king of fruits
The UAE is abuzz with excitement as festivals dedicated to the king of fruits, the mango, commence across the country. Visitors at these festivals can indulge in various mango-based delicacies, participate in fun activities, and even take home some prizes through giveaways.
A wide array of mango varieties from different countries, particularly India, Pakistan, and Yemen, has been imported into the UAE. Prices for these mangoes range from Dh4 per kilogram to Dh620 for two Miyazaki mangoes weighing 800 grams. More varieties are expected to arrive in the coming months, adding to the mango mania.
One of the standout events is the Mango Festival organized by the Pakistan Association Dubai. Scheduled for July 5 and 6 at their premises in Oud Metha, this festival, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Pakistan, promises a vibrant celebration. The first day is an invite-only affair, while the second day welcomes the general public. Visitors can taste a variety of Pakistani mangoes, watch chefs prepare mango-based dishes, learn recipes, and enjoy a range of mango desserts. The festival will also feature giveaways, shopping opportunities, magic shows, fun games, and competitions.
Another notable event is the 3rd annual Mango Festival at Expo Khorfakkan, running from June 28-30. This festival will showcase local mango varieties and host several competitions with attractive prizes. Competitions include a mango beauty contest (mazayna), a contest for the most beautiful mango basket exclusive to women, and a best artwork contest for children. The expo will feature agricultural companies, farmers, and productive families displaying diverse fruit harvests, including various mangoes and citrus fruits. The festival will be open daily from 4:30 pm to 10 pm.
The organizing committee has set specific conditions for participation in the mango mazayna. Participants must provide mangoes produced this season from their farm or home garden and present ownership documents for their agricultural land or house at registration. Each participant can submit only one variety of mango. The jury will thoroughly inspect and evaluate the winning farms and homes. The mangoes must be free of injuries and defects, be of appropriate size, and presented in carton boxes. The weight of the mangoes entered in each category must be 4kg.
The 'Most Beautiful Basket' competition is exclusive to women aged 18 and older, requiring locally produced mangoes presented in a handmade basket crafted by the participant, with the basket's weight not exceeding 4kg.
For the 'Most Beautiful Artwork for Children' competition, participants must be between 8 and 12 years old and submit a copy of their Emirates ID. The artwork must be mango-themed and can be a model, painting, or any other form of creative work, with each child allowed only one submission.
Additionally, the President Hotel in Dubai is hosting its Mango Festival until mid-July, featuring a special mango menu at two of its outlets. Prices for these dishes range from Dh24 to Dh49, offering a delicious way to enjoy the king of fruits.
These festivals provide a delightful opportunity for mango lovers in the UAE to celebrate the fruit in all its glory, bringing communities together through shared enjoyment and cultural exchange.
By: Sahiba Suri
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