Al Ain Farms Takes Camel Milk Global in Bid to Establish UAE Product as the Next Superfood

Matcha was served alongside camel milk at a signing ceremony during Global Food Week on Tuesday, marking a unique introduction for the traditional beverage. Al Ain Farms Group announced plans to expand its Camelait brand internationally, aiming to transform camel milk into a recognized global superfood through strategic partnerships in China and Europe over the coming years.

"What Al Ain is doing is a whole transformation. It's not only trying to sell camel milk in Europe, it's also managing the whole supply chain from A to Z, from production all the way to R&D and experimenting to improve and enhance the quality of camel milk and camel production," said Tareq Al Hosani, chairman of Al Ain Farms Group, in an interview with The National.

Under the expansion strategy, the company will produce high-quality camel milk within the UAE and export the powder to Germany and China, which will serve as regional distribution hubs for Europe and East Asia, respectively. Mr. Al Hosani emphasized the company's grand vision, stating that the ultimate goal is to share the health benefits of camel milk worldwide and secure a place for it on every table through collaborative partnerships.

Industry projections estimate that the global camel milk market will reach $24 billion by 2030. Currently, camel milk represents a mere 0.4 per cent of total global milk production, while Al Ain Farms produces two million litres annually.

"Local manufacturing is a long-term commitment to the Chinese market and gives Camelait the flexibility to respond as demand develops and consumer preferences evolve," noted Rick Chen, general manager at Suzhou Biology Healthy. He added that the partnership represents a significant investment in the category's future by introducing long-life products to Chinese households.

Bolstering these international efforts, the UAE recently introduced the world's first international standard for pasteurised camel milk, which has received approval from the Codex Alimentarius Commission—the joint food standards body of the Food and Agriculture Organisation and the World Health Organisation.

"The significance of Codex cannot be underestimated," stated Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi during Global Food Week at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, highlighting that the globally recognized standard enhances market access and connects scientific research to commercial impact.

Looking ahead, Mr. Al Hosani expressed optimism about camel milk's potential in children's and baby food sectors due to its nutritional benefits, pending regulatory approvals. Additionally, a new collaboration with Khalifa University and Khalifa University Enterprises Company will further research into camel milk applications. With plans to introduce over 20 different flavors and products, Al Ain Farms remains confident in the global readiness to embrace Emirati dairy innovations.