LuLu Group flies 3,000 tonnes of Kerala produce to Gulf regions ahead of Malayali New Year of Vishu

The Middle East has been grappling with maintaining a consistent food supply due to the ongoing regional crisis since February 28, 2026. The country has been airlifting fresh produce and food essentials in order to ensure food security and price consistency in the markets.

With the arrival of the Malayali New Year of Vishu, Gulf countries have been facing a high demand for large-scale airlift of fresh produce from Kerala. Now, thousands of tonnes of fruits, vegetables and traditional essentials are being flown in ahead of the celebrations. Gulf retail major, Lulu Group recently moved around 3,153 tonnes of produce into the region to restock grocery shelves in the UAE and the larger GCC regions.

This was aimed at ensuring supplies for one of the most important festivals of the Malayali community. A recent consignment of close to 100 tonnes arrived in Abu Dhabi via National Airlines Boeing 747, with more flights scheduled in the coming days. The shipment includes Vishu essentials such as kani konna flowers, jackfruit, banana leaves and coconuts and other vital condiments for Vishukkani arrangements and Sadya meals.

Most of the produce was sourced directly from farmers in Kerala through Lulu's Fair Exports Division, enabling faster movements to retail shelves across the Gulf while supporting agricultural supply chains. Moreover, Lulu outlets have created dedicated sections for Vishu essentials due to the expected footfall. The group has also rolled out a Payasam festival, offering more than 20 varieties of the dessert. Moreover, customers can pre-order Vishu Sadya meals that typically include over 20 dishes. The group's chairman Yusuffali M.A., has assured customers of adequate stock and stable pricing during the festive period. Vishu is the first day of the Solar calendar used in Malabar of Kerala and signifies the beginning of the solar new year. More than three million Keralites live and work across the GCC countries predominantly in UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain. Thus, Vishu will be celebrated widely in the countries and the fresh produce will be vital for the occasion.