UAE residents on Ramadan grocery shopping

Residents of the UAE share their shopping expense details during Ramadan.

Rim Al Jareh, 25, Swedish journalist: I have definitely noticed a rise in prices in groceries, especially during weekly shopping trips. During Ramadan, I tend to cook more at home rather than dine out, and I love going to supermarkets because they have promotions and offers on almost everything. Purchasing on offers definitely saves you money. I spend on average Dh3,000 during Ramadan.

Majdala Merhabi, 24, Production coordinator: Grocery prices are almost the same for the last few months, with more competition between big supermarkets. My spending during Ramadan will be almost the same [as last year] since I am a single working lady, and I eat out every day. I hope grocery items will be cheaper and include more offers in Ramadan.

Ebrahim Abu Sief, 55, Director of financial studies: Prices of staples like rice, meat, and oil do increase. On average, I spend Dh4,000 during Ramadan. I hope to see prices decrease, as we need more supplies during Ramadan. [Supermarkets] have several offers, but it is still works out a bit expensive.

Ala’a Al Hendy, 26, Projects coordinator: I have not noticed a rise in grocery prices. During Ramadan, I spend around Dh2,000. I would like to see no price rise and more diverse supplies.

Sara Abdul Shafy, 24, Intern, Hug Digital: I think the prices differ from one emirate to another. I hope to see offers and promotions on food staples such as Vimto, rice, bread, fruits, yoghurt, beans, cheese, eggs, etc, for Ramadan.

Yousri Shadid, 32, IT manager: I have not noticed a rise in grocery prices, maybe only slightly. I spend around Dh3,000 to 5,000 during Ramadan. I hope to see more promotions, such as ‘buy one get one free’, or buy something and win a plate. Also, I would like to see more availability of fresh vegetables and atayef, and more options in sweets.