Exciting news for households, restaurants, and eateries across the UAE. Onions, a vital ingredient in countless dishes, are set to become more affordable. Thanks to India’s decision to abolish export duties on onions — its most significant export — this essential kitchen staple will soon be more accessible, making it easier for everyone to enjoy their favourite dishes at a lower cost.

The announcement, made yesterday (March 25 )by India’s Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, is expected to bring down onion prices across the GCC, including in the UAE, as well as in Bangladesh, Nepal, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka.

For months, high export duties — peaking at 40% before being reduced to 20% — had kept onion prices inflated. But with this duty now completely removed, experts predict a significant drop in onion prices, making them more affordable for shoppers across the region.

India, known as the world’s onion powerhouse, is the primary supplier to the Gulf states, where the vegetable is a must-have ingredient in countless dishes. Other major exporters include Pakistan, China, and Egypt, but Indian onions have long dominated the market due to their quality and availability.

Good News for Farmers Too!

While UAE consumers will benefit from lower prices, Indian farmers are also celebrating. The removal of export duties will allow them to sell onions at higher prices globally, boosting their income.

This move is part of India’s broader strategy to ease export restrictions on staple food items, which were previously imposed to control domestic inflation. The Indian government is now progressively revising these policies to support both farmers and international trade.

With onion prices expected to drop in UAE supermarkets in the coming weeks, shoppers can look forward to bigger savings on their grocery bills.

(Source: Wam)

Dubai Municipality (DM) is calling on residents to stay vigilant and report any health and safety violations they notice in restaurants, salons, and beauty centres during Ramadan.

If you spot an issue, you can report it by calling DM’s dedicated 24/7 helpline at 800900. In a social media post on X, DM emphasised the importance of public cooperation, stating: “If you come across any health and safety issues in restaurants, salons, or beauty centres this Ramadan, report them by calling 800900. Your safety matters.”

With Ramadan bringing larger crowds and higher demand for services, DM’s approach ensures that violations are addressed swiftly to maintain public health and safety.

To report any concerns, call: 800900 (available 24/7)

(Source: X)

Dubai’s Raju Omlet eatery turned into a cricket fan’s paradise when Team India skipper Rohit Sharma and star spinner Kuldeep Yadav dropped by for a pre-match feast ahead of the highly anticipated India vs Pakistan ICC Champions Trophy clash.

A viral video (on www.instagram.com/rajuomlet) has sent social media into a frenzy, showing the Team India duo digging into their meal at the famous street food joint. As soon as word spread, fans mobbed the eatery, desperate to catch a glimpse of the cricketing superstars. 

Some even tried their luck at getting a selfie with Rohit Sharma, who had to wade through a sea of people just to exit the spot.

“And there he is… the Hitman… savouring a champion’s feast! Rohit Sharma and Kuldeep Yadav at Raju Omlet – now that’s an egg-ceptional sight,” read the caption on the viral clip.

The frenzy around the eatery only adds to the overall excitement in Dubai, as fans flock to places where they can catch a glimpse of their heroes.

Cricketers and their love for food

Rohit and Kuldeep aren’t the only foodies in Team India. Virat Kohli, known for his love of North Indian cuisine, was recently seen indulging in local delicacies after his training session in Dubai. His favourite dish is is Chole Bhature. Rishabh Pant swears by Indian food for his recovery. He loves moong dal khichdi made with pumpkin and bottle gourd. Hardik Pandya used to be a meat lover but later switched to a vegetarian diet due to health concerns. KL Rahul loves pasta as Jasprit Bumrah can’t do without a plate of Dhokla.

From eggs to ‘eggcellence’: The story of Raju Omlet’s journey

Long before Raju Omlet became a must-visit spot for cricket stars like Rohit Sharma and Kuldeep Yadav, it was just a humble street cart in Karelibaug in Vadodara, Gujarat run Rajesh Rana, aka Raju Bhai.

Back in 1984, juggling a day job at a printing press, Raju Bhai would set up his cart to dish out simple omelettes and bhurji (scrambled eggs). What started as a side hustle soon became a full-time calling for him. Fast forward to today, and Raju Omlet has grown into a massive food brand, known for its innovative egg dishes.

From Vadodara’s street corners to Dubai’s food scene, and now host to cricket’s biggest names, Raju Omlet is a story of passion and a whole lot of eggs.

(Source: HT, Raju Omlet)