Lulu launches air cargo operation to secure fresh food supplies amid shipping disruptions

Lulu Group International has launched a dedicated airlift operation to maintain food supply chains in the United Arab Emirates as regional shipping disruptions intensify due to the ongoing West Asia conflict.

As of March 7, 2026, the retailer has begun using chartered cargo flights to transport fresh produce directly from international sourcing hubs, particularly India, ensuring supermarket shelves remain fully stocked.

On Saturday morning, a cargo freighter operated by Etihad Airways delivered around 80,000 kilograms of fresh fruits and vegetables, approximately 12,000 packages, from India to Abu Dhabi.

Bypassing shipping disruptions

The air bridge has been set up to bypass traditional shipping routes passing through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, where escalating tensions have created uncertainty for cargo vessels.

By shifting part of its logistics to air transport, Lulu aims to ensure uninterrupted access to fresh food supplies across the UAE.

Prices to remain stable

Despite the higher costs associated with air freight, the company said it will maintain stable retail prices and urged customers not to engage in panic buying. The retailer also noted that it holds several months of buffer stock for essential staples to ensure supply continuity.

Ramadan offers and sourcing strategy

To support consumers during Ramadan 2026, Lulu has introduced discounts of up to 65% on more than 5,500 products and has frozen prices on 300 essential items across its stores. India continues to serve as the group’s primary sourcing hub, with Lulu planning to increase its annual food imports from the country to ₹15,000 crore within the next two years.

The company also sources products directly from farms in 27 countries, including new supply hubs in Lithuania and the United States, as part of a strategy designed to reduce reliance on intermediaries and shield operations from global price volatility.