Iranian goods still flow into Dubai markets despite official trade suspension

Official trade halt remains in place

The United Arab Emirates announced a suspension of trade and financial exchanges with Iran last month. Iranian officials responded to American attacks by targeting the US-allied country and tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Local shops keep traditional stocks

Grocery store owner Morteza Asaadi says certain Iranian products have become scarcer while prices have soared since the conflict began. Most traditional foodstuffs such as nuts and zereshk remain available in old Dubai markets despite the tensions.

Wholesalers use alternative routes

Two anonymous wholesalers confirmed they are still sourcing goods from Iran, notably via Omani ports. Air links have resumed to bring saffron from Mashhad after a brief interruption earlier this year.