Dubai's New Cola: From Date to Healthy

New Fizzy Drinks Enter Dubai Market - From Date Cola to Healthy Options

The Middle Eastern beverage market is becoming increasingly diverse, with many new offerings for consumers this April. One of the most intriguing innovations is the Saudi date cola, which has attracted attention not only for its taste but also for its sustainable approach. Additionally, other new brands and healthier alternatives are appearing on shelves, signaling that health consciousness and innovation are becoming more prominent in the region.

Date Cola Becomes a Sensation

Milaf Cola, a Saudi-origin carbonated drink replacing traditional sweeteners with date extract, will soon be available in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the GCC countries (Gulf Cooperation Council). Originally launched by the manufacturer in November 2023, the drink quickly became a sensation due to its unique taste and sustainable concept.

The head of product development explained that the goal of creating the drink was to prevent the waste of dates. "We grow a type of date that should be consumed semi-dry. However, if it becomes too moist, no one eats it, even though it is richer in fiber and sweetness. Thus, from a sustainability perspective, we decided to transport the dates to our factory and make an extract from them, which we then use for cola production," he explained. Perfecting the recipe took seven months, but the result is a drink that is not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.

Milaf Cola will soon appear in GCC countries thanks to a distribution agreement with the Lulu group. Expected to be launched in April, the drink will be found on the shelves of supermarkets in the region.

Growth of the Carbonated Beverage Market

According to a presentation by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, carbonated drinks represent the second largest share of the UAE beverage market, with spending on these products reaching approximately 400 million dollars in 2024. Further market growth is anticipated, with forecasts predicting a 6.8% expansion over the coming year. This trend clearly shows that while consumers remain highly interested in soft drinks, they are increasingly seeking healthier and more innovative alternatives.

The Five-Decade Campa Cola Also Arrives

Indian Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL) is also debuting in the UAE market, introducing the famous Campa Cola brand in April. Acquired by the company in 2022, this drink with over five decades of history will be available in the region for the first time. Campa Cola will be available in three flavors: classic cola, orange, and lemon. According to the company's managing director, the aim is not competition, but to expand consumer options. "People are always looking for good quality products, and we want to offer that to them. We also plan to expand our range with sports drinks later," he added.

Healthier Cola at Gulfood Exhibition

One of the most interesting innovations at this year's Gulfood exhibition is the 51 Agave Cola, offering a healthier cola alternative. Sweetened with natural agave and free from artificial additives, it is an excellent choice for those who want to live more health-consciously but still crave the taste of classic cola.

According to the British company's electronic sales manager, the goal was to introduce a healthy alternative, allowing consumers to continue enjoying cola without worrying about their health. The drink is available in glass bottles and cans, and comes in four flavors, including cherry and spicy varieties. "The feedback so far has been very encouraging, and we hope to soon find partners in Dubai to launch our product," he said.

Slogan of Variety and Health Consciousness

The diverse offering of the UAE beverage market increasingly reflects consumer demands: on one hand, they seek innovative and exciting new flavors, while on the other hand, they focus more on a healthy lifestyle. The date cola, Campa Cola, and 51 Agave Cola all show that the market is ready for innovations, and consumers are eager to try products that are not only delicious but also sustainable and healthy.

The expected launches in April promise an exciting month for the UAE beverage market, providing opportunities for consumers to discover new flavors and alternatives. If you love cola but want to live healthier, or are simply curious about new flavors, it's worth keeping an eye on the shelves – this year holds many surprises!