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Dubai: Hot weather, bad traffic and almost similar prices at nearby supermarkets are some of the reasons residents are not shopping for goods at the Dubai Fruit and Vegetable Market.
The market, previously located at Al Hamriyah, is now situated in Ras Al Khor, close to International City.
"When the market was located in Al Hamriyah, many people used to go there because it was close to residential areas. I think, whereas the site is favourable for wholesalers, the retailers are not benefiting much," said Mohammad Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, a Bangladeshi seller.
"This is because the spacious market area provides better storage places to vendors selling agricultural items in large quantities. Shopkeepers always come here to buy fruit and vegetables for their shops. However, we suffer because residents can always buy from such shops closer to where they reside," he explained.
He also said that imports of vegetables and fruit to the UAE have decreased as a result of the hot weather.
Frank Fernandez, an Indian businessman, said he thinks that the quality of fruit and vegetables at hypermarkets such as Carrefour and Union Cooperative is better than that found at the mega market. "Although the prices are less here, most of the good stuff goes to the supermarkets," he said.
However, Chaudry Mazr Iqbal, a Pakistani driver, said he thinks that the market contains good quality fruit and vegetables.
"I always come here because I feel everything here is fresh. This is because most of the trucks carrying agricultural goods are unloaded at this site. Plus I get my desired items for a cheaper price."
One resident who was shopping, said he comes here sometimes.
"I don't need a lot of vegetables as I am single here and do not have storage space to buy in bulk," he said.
Have you ever visited or shopped at the fruit and vegetable market? Tell us about your experience.
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