Khorfakkan Hosts Mango Paradise Festival

More Than 35 Varieties of Local Mangoes in Khorfakkan - A Feast for Fruit Lovers

The Khorfakkan Expo Centre has become a true paradise for mango lovers, hosting the popular Mango Festival once again this year. Farmers from various parts of the UAE – Badiya, Dibba, Kalba, Fujairah, Masafi, and naturally Khorfakkan – showcased dozens of locally grown varieties of mangoes to attendees.

Local Farmers, Organic Mangoes

One of the festival's most unique features is that more than 35 varieties of mangoes are specifically grown within the UAE. These included tiny, golden yellow pieces and large, green-skinned fruits weighing up to 1 kilogram. Other varieties could fit ten pieces within a kilogram. Prices ranged between 15 and 70 dirhams per kilogram, depending on the type and size.

Farmers emphasized that they do not use chemicals and work exclusively with organic methods. This natural care not only enhances the taste of the fruits but also attracts growing interest from conscious consumers.

A Climate Favorable for Mangoes

Many were surprised to learn that mango cultivation is not exclusively an Indian or Pakistani affair. The climate of the UAE – particularly in regions like Dibba and Kalba – creates ideal conditions for mango trees to bear fruit almost year-round. Carefully tended trees produce fruit not just in summer but at multiple times throughout the year.

Meeting the Producers

Visitors, including families, seniors, and children, not only shopped but also actively engaged with the producers. While tasting, they learned about the distinguishing features of each variety, the harvesting process, and the traditional methods farmers use to protect the trees from diseases.

Many arrived early in the morning to take home the most beautiful pieces from Sharjah, Fujairah, or Dubai. For visitors, the festival was also a cultural and culinary experience, as it's rare to have such direct interaction with producers.

Local Value, Direct Support

The Mango Festival is not just a market but also a community-building event. Visitors could purchase directly from farmers, ensuring that the profit goes to the families involved in production rather than intermediaries. This is particularly important as it supports sustainable farming and strengthens local food supply.

Summary

The Khorfakkan Mango Festival is an excellent example of the meeting point between traditional agriculture, organic food production, and modern consciousness. Those who missed it this year should consider an early start next year – and bring an empty bag because it's hard to resist the scent and taste of local mangoes.

(The article's source is the Khorfakkan festival announcement.)