Rising Demand for Indian Goats in UAE Ahead of Eid Al Adha
As Eid Al Adha approaches, the Sharjah livestock market is buzzing with activity as residents begin scouting for sacrificial animals. While traders are seeing a steady stream of interest, they have noted a change in supply logistics this year; due to ongoing shipping disruptions, many Indian goats are being flown into the UAE via air cargo rather than arriving by sea. This shift in transportation has led to a slight uptick in prices, with goats currently ranging from Dh800 to Dh2,200 depending on the breed and weight. Despite the price variance, Indian breeds remain the top choice for many families, who are typically budgeting between Dh1,000 and Dh1,500 per animal.
To manage the anticipated influx of visitors, market officials have implemented several new measures to streamline the experience. Residents living in apartments who lack space to house the livestock can now pre-select and pay for their animals, leaving them at the market until they are ready for slaughter. Furthermore, the authorities have introduced an improved tracking system, dedicated customer pathways, and increased staffing to help reduce waiting times during the peak rush. With the market remaining open late on the first day of Eid, officials are working closely with local police and municipality teams to ensure a smooth, hygienic, and efficient process for everyone involved.