Sparkling Wine Trends In Dubai
1st June 2023
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a major hub for wine consumption in recent years, with sparkling wine gaining popularity among the country’s wine enthusiasts. The demand for high-quality sparkling wines has been on the rise in Dubai, fueled by the country’s growing economy and increasing preference for luxury goods.
The trend towards sparkling wine is evident in Dubai’s wine market, which has seen an increase in both the quantity and variety of sparkling wines available in the country. Wine lovers in Dubai are increasingly opting for sparkling wines, not just for special occasions, but also as an everyday beverage. According to Statista, revenue in the Sparkling Wine segment in the UAE amounts to US$22.05m in 2023, and the market is expected to grow annually by 9.35% CAGR from 2023 to 2027.
One of the main factors driving the growth of sparkling wine in Dubai is the country’s growing tourism. Dubai is a popular destination for international tourists, many of whom come from countries where wine is a staple. The growing demand for sparkling wine among tourists has led to an increase in the availability of sparkling wine in hotels, restaurants, and wine bars across the country. Another factor contributing to the growth of sparkling wine in Dubai is the country’s cosmopolitan population. Dubai is home to a diverse population of expats, many of whom have a taste for international wines. As a result, wine merchants in Dubai are increasingly stocking up on sparkling wines from around the world to cater to this growing demand.
In addition to traditional sparkling wine regions such as Champagne and Prosecco, the Dubai market has seen a rise in demand for lesser-known sparkling wine regions such as South Africa and Australia. With the global popularization of English sparkling wine, consumers tend to be interested in new emerging categories of sparkling wine resulting in the rise of demand in the English sparkling wine category. Consumers in Dubai are also increasingly seeking out organic and biodynamic sparkling wines, which are perceived to be healthier and more environmentally friendly.
Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle and high-end dining scene, so there are many options for high-end sparkling wines in the city. Some examples of high-end Champagnes available in Dubai’s market are Dom Pérignon, Krug, Salon, Bollinger, and Taittinger Comtes de Champagne, just to name a few. There are many other luxury Champagne and sparkling wine brands that can be found in the city’s wine shops, restaurants, and bars.
One of the latest trends in Dubai’s sparkling wine market is the emergence of “grower” Champagnes. These are Champagnes made by small, independent producers who grow their own grapes and make their own wine. Grower Champagnes are gaining popularity among wine enthusiasts in Dubai due to their unique flavors and artisanal production methods. There is a wide selection of Grower Champagne, including bottles from well-known producers like Pierre Gimonnet, Larmandier-Bernier, and Jacques Selosse which you can easily buy from the retail store or online from African+Eastern.
Despite the growing popularity of sparkling wine in Dubai, the market remains highly regulated. Dubai imposes strict regulations on the import and sale of alcoholic beverages, and wine merchants must obtain a license to sell wine in the country. Additionally, taxes and duties on wine can be high, which can make it challenging for merchants to offer competitive prices.
The sparkling wine market in Dubai is showing continuous growth with no signs of slowing down. Wine merchants in the country are increasingly diversifying their offerings to cater to the growing demand for sparkling wine, and consumers are becoming more adventurous in their wine choices. As Dubai’s economy continues to grow and its population becomes increasingly cosmopolitan, it is likely that the demand for sparkling wine in the country will continue to rise. Dubai is a popular tourist destination, and many visitors may choose to celebrate special occasions with a bottle of Champagne.
Image Credit: Dubai Champagne
Tushar Anand
A wine and spirits enthusiast, holding WSET Level 3 in wines who loves to talk about all things beverages. Currently working as a Sommelier at Alici Dubai, a part of Orange Hospitality Ltd.