The United Arab Emirates is witnessing a remarkable surge in Thanksgiving celebrations, with demand for traditional turkey meals reaching unprecedented levels during the extended National Day weekend. This American holiday has transcended its cultural origins, becoming an increasingly popular occasion for communal gatherings among diverse communities in the Gulf nation.
Major food retailers and restaurants report exceptional growth in turkey sales, with some establishments experiencing 100% increased demand compared to 2024. The trend reflects the UAE’s evolving cultural landscape, where international traditions blend with local customs to create unique hybrid celebrations.
According to industry experts, the phenomenon demonstrates significant shifts in consumer behavior. Warwick Gird, General Manager of Marketing at Spinneys, noted particularly strong demand for large turkeys in the 6-8 kg range, indicating that residents are hosting substantial gatherings. “We’ve seen high double-digit growth versus last year,” Gird confirmed, highlighting the scale of the increase.
The trend extends beyond retail to prepared meals, with restaurants reporting substantial pre-order volumes. Joe Dourans, Operations Manager at Rodeo Drive, observed that while Thanksgiving originated as a US holiday, UAE families are embracing it as a warm, communal celebration. “Each year, we see more returning guests and larger group bookings,” Dourans noted, indicating the tradition’s growing roots beyond its original cultural context.
Sajan Alex, CEO of Tablez Food Company, attributed the surge to strong economic performance and positive consumer sentiment. “Individuals are more willing to spend on premium festive experiences,” Alex stated, noting that their Famous Dave’s brand has seen 100% growth in demand for their oak-smoked turkey feast offerings.
Industry professionals anticipate the trend will continue through the Christmas season and beyond, with turkey becoming a preferred centerpiece for various celebrations throughout the year. Interestingly, there’s growing interest in locally-infused variations that incorporate Middle Eastern flavors while maintaining the dish’s festive essence, creating a distinctive UAE interpretation of the Thanksgiving tradition.