The Middle East fresh produce sector is experiencing unprecedented growth. The GCC fruits and vegetables market reached $16.75 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to $21.17 billion by 2030. With over 80% of the region’s food requirements coming from imports due to climate and water constraints, international buyers are increasingly looking toward Thailand as their go-to source for premium tropical fruits and vegetables.
For Gulfood 2026 in Dubai this January, we at Fresh Point are excited to showcase why we’ve become a leading fruits and vegetables exporter from Thailand serving buyers across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and beyond. If you’re searching for reliable suppliers who understand both quality standards and regional preferences, here’s what makes Thai produce, and Fresh Point specifically, stand out.
Middle East’s Growing Appetite for Quality Produce
The numbers tell a compelling story. In 2025, the GCC fruits and vegetables market stands at $16.75 billion and is projected to climb to $21.17 billion by 2030. The UAE market alone reached $6.81 billion in 2025, while Saudi Arabia commands $8.51 billion. Several factors are driving this remarkable expansion:
- Population and Prosperity: The Middle East’s young, affluent population continues to grow, particularly in major economic hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Doha. Rising disposable incomes translate directly into higher spending on premium food products.
- Health Consciousness on the Rise: Consumer behavior is shifting dramatically. Recent data shows that 71% of UAE consumers actively try to eat healthily, while regional governments promote nutritious, non-processed foods to combat rising rates of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This health awareness creates a strong demand for fresh, nutrient-rich produce.
- Geographic Realities: Water scarcity and arid climates severely limit domestic production capacity across the region. National food security strategies acknowledge that despite investments in vertical farming and hydroponics, imports remain essential to meet consumer demand. This creates consistent opportunities for reliable international suppliers.
Why Thailand Has Become the Preferred Source
Thailand’s emergence as a premier supplier to Middle East markets isn’t accidental. We combine natural advantages with sophisticated agricultural practices:
Tropical Excellence and Variety
We offer over 60 varieties of premium tropical fruits and vegetables that meet the Middle East’s appetite for exotic, high-quality produce. From mangosteen and dragon fruit to Thai asparagus and specialty herbs, our year-round Thai fruit supply ensures consistent availability regardless of season. Thailand’s tropical climate and fertile soil create ideal growing conditions that result in superior flavor, texture, and nutritional content.
International Standards and Certifications
At Fresh Point, quality assurance isn’t negotiable. We hold multiple international certifications, including GlobalGAP, HACCP, USDA Organic, and IFOAM. These credentials guarantee that our products meet the stringent food safety and quality standards expected by Middle East buyers, hospitality groups, and retail chains.
Advanced Cold Chain Logistics
Freshness on arrival is critical for tropical produce. We’ve invested heavily in cold chain infrastructure that maintains optimal temperatures from harvest through packing, storage, and international shipping. This ensures that mangoes, papayas, and other delicate fruits arrive in Dubai, Doha, or Riyadh in peak condition.
Cultural and Religious Compatibility
We understand Middle Eastern food requirements. Our production processes align with halal-friendly standards, and we’re experienced in compiling and adhering to the documentation, packaging, and labeling requirements specific to GCC markets. This cultural awareness, combined with growing trade relationships between Thailand and Gulf countries, makes partnerships smooth and efficient.
Market Growth Projections Tell an Exciting Story
Looking ahead to 2025-2026, several trends point to accelerating demand:
- The fresh fruit market is expected to grow at 4.24% annually through 2029
- Berries and exotic fruits are showing the fastest growth rates, with Middle East fresh berries projected to reach $2.04 billion by 2029
- The hospitality, retail, and foodservice sectors are all expanding their fresh produce offerings
- E-commerce and food delivery platforms are creating new distribution channels that require a reliable, consistent supply
For buyers, this means now is the perfect time to establish partnerships with proven Thai exporters who can scale with your business.
Partner With Fresh Point – 29 Years of Export Excellence
Since our establishment in 1995, we’ve built our reputation on three pillars: quality, reliability, and customer service. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Proven Track Record: Nearly three decades of experience exporting premium Thai produce means we understand the complexities of international logistics, customs requirements, and quality expectations. We’ve successfully served buyers across Asia, Europe, and increasingly, the Middle East.
- Market-Specific Solutions: We don’t offer a one-size-fits-all service. We provide customized packaging and labeling designed specifically for Middle East markets, flexible order quantities for businesses of all sizes, and dedicated support for compliance and documentation.
- Complete Supply Chain Management: From sourcing directly from certified farms to managing cold storage and coordinating international shipping, we handle every step. This integrated approach ensures consistency and reduces complications for buyers.
- Quality You Can Verify: Our certifications aren’t just paperwork. They represent our commitment to:
- Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) ensuring safe, sustainable production
- GlobalGAP meeting internationally recognized standards
- USDA Organic certification for products free from synthetic pesticides
- IFOAM validation of sustainable farming practices
- HACCP food safety management throughout production
Meet Us at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai
Gulfood 2026 will take place January 26-30, 2026, across two premier venues: Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai. As the world’s largest food and beverage sourcing event, Gulfood brings together over 5,500 exhibitors and 100,000+ trade visitors from every corner of the global food industry.
This is your opportunity to:
- Explore our full range of Thai fruits and vegetables through product displays and tasting samples
- Discuss your specific sourcing requirements with our export specialists
- Learn about our customized solutions for Middle East markets
- See quality demonstrations that highlight why our produce stands apart
- Establish direct relationships that streamline future orders
We’re making Gulfood 2026 a priority because we recognize the enormous potential of Middle East partnerships. The event provides the perfect platform to connect face-to-face, ask detailed questions, and begin building the kind of trust that long-term business relationships require.
What Middle East Buyers Can Expect
Working with Fresh Point means we become your strategic partner in fresh produce sourcing:
- Compliance and Documentation Support: Middle East markets have specific import requirements. We handle the paperwork, provide all necessary certifications, and ensure every shipment meets regulatory standards. This removes headaches and prevents costly delays.
- Consistent Quality Standards: Every batch meets the same rigorous standards. We implement quality controls at every stage, from farm selection through final packaging, so you can confidently promise quality to your customers.
- Reliable Delivery Schedules: We understand that restaurants, hotels, and retailers need a predictable supply. Our logistics experience and year-round Thai fruit supply mean you can count on timely deliveries that keep your operations running smoothly.
- Competitive Pricing with Premium Quality: We’ve optimized our supply chain to offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Our scale and efficiency mean you don’t have to choose between cost and excellence.
- Dedicated Middle East Team: Our export specialists understand GCC market regulations, consumer preferences, and business culture. This expertise translates into smoother communication and faster problem resolution.
Your Next Steps Toward Thai Produce Partnership
The convergence of rising Middle East demand, Thailand’s agricultural strengths, and Fresh Point’s proven capabilities creates a unique opportunity for buyers looking to secure premium tropical produce suppliers.
2025-2026 represents a pivotal moment. Market growth projections, expanding consumer health consciousness, and infrastructure investments in both Thailand and the Middle East are aligning to support successful partnerships. Companies that act now to establish relationships with reliable Thai exporters will be positioned to capitalize on this growth trajectory.
Thailand’s combination of quality, variety, and reliability makes it the ideal source for Middle East fresh produce requirements. We’ve spent 29 years perfecting our approach to international exports, and we’re ready to put that expertise to work for your business.
Partner With Us To Source Premium Thai Produce
Visit Fresh Point at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai, January 26-30, 2026. Whether you’re a wholesaler, distributor, retail chain, hospitality group, or foodservice operator, we have solutions tailored to your needs.
Can’t wait until January? Contact us today to discuss how our Thai produce can enhance your product offerings. Visit freshpoint.co.th to explore our complete range of products, view our certifications, and learn more about our services.
The future of fresh produce in the Middle East is exciting, and Fresh Point is ready to be your partner in that growth. Let’s start the conversation.
References:
- Gulfood. (n.d.). Gulfood 2026: World’s biggest food show even bigger in 2026. Retrieved November 12, 2025, from https://www.gulfood.com/
- Mordor Intelligence. (2025). GCC fruit and vegetable market size & share analysis – Growth trends and forecast (2025–2030). Retrieved November 12, 2025, from https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/analysis-of-the-fruits-and-vegetables-sector-in-gcc-countries-industry
- Mordor Intelligence. (2025). UAE fruits and vegetables market size & share analysis – Growth trends and forecast (2025–2030). Retrieved November 12, 2025, from https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/united-arab-emirates-fruits-and-vegetables-market
- Research and Markets. (n.d.). Middle East fruit and vegetables market – Growth, trends, and forecast. Retrieved November 12, 2025, from https://www.researchandmarkets.com/report/middle-east-fruit-vegetables-market
- Best Food Importers. (2025, August). Food import trends and food importers in the Middle East in 2024–2025. Retrieved November 12, 2025, from https://bestfoodimporters.com/blog/food-import-trends-and-food-importers-in-the-middle-east-in-2024-2025/
- International Fresh Produce Association. (n.d.). Who supplies the Middle East’s increasing demand for fresh produce. Retrieved November 12, 2025, from https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/international-trade/who-supplies-the-middle-easts-increasing-demand-for-fresh-produce/
