Tea
Historic highway
International gateway for the tea trade
The UAE is one of the world’s largest re-exporter of tea with major share in the global market. Since the world’s major tea plantations were established in India and Sri Lanka in the early 1900s, Dubai has been a key international gateway for the trade. Its strategic location midway between the tea producing and consuming countries was a natural advantage. In 2013, the total volume of tea traded through Dubai increased to 129 thousand tonnes (US$ 463 million), representing a jump of 34% on trade in 2012. As a tea trade facilitator, we continue to invest in the innovative infrastructure, business services and expertise to help you capitalise on the flow of tea passing through the region.
DMCC Tea Centre
A dedicated facility combining warehousing, blending and packaging, our Tea Centre provides comprehensive facilities and convenient solutions for traders who want to maintain a stock for importers in the Middle East and adjacent regions. We process teas from 13 different countries and facilitate the trade of tea to international buyers worldwide.
Find out moreShai Dubai
We welcome you to Shai Dubai. Celebrating one of the world’s most innovative and progressive cities, Shai Dubai is a range of exclusive tea blends newly crafted by Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC).
Find out more
Learn how the DMCC Tea Centre is shaping the future of tea
DMCC Tea Centre is featured in the “One Cup, A Thousand Stories” documentary produced by BBC Studios for Migu Video.
Latest tea news
Stay updated with our latest tea news
Tea in numbers
See the latest tea statistics
Table 3.1 Import of tea
Volume in metric tons and value in USD (millions)
| Year | Volume | Value |
| 2012 | 66,888 | 218 |
| 2013 | 83,127 | 263 |
| 2014 | 44,367 | 121 |
| 2015 | 87,393 | 268 |
| 2016 | 78,130 | 224 |
| 2017 | 85,275 | 258 |
| 2018 | 115,279 | 441 |
| 2019 | 55,584 | 156 |
Source: Dubai Customs
The data has not been validated
Table 3.2 Export of tea
Volume in metric tons and value in USD (millions)
| Year | Volume | Value |
| 2012 | 32,850 | 128 |
| 2013 | 45,141 | 200 |
| 2014 | 32,993 | 120 |
| 2015 | 57,155 | 220 |
| 2016 | 44,581 | 169 |
| 2017 | 54,207 | 187 |
| 2018 | 50,856 | 203 |
| 2019 | 39,883 | 162 |
Source: Dubai Customs
The data has not been validated