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From the first bite of a syrup-soaked luqaimat to the last piece of a luxurious chocolate at iftar, confectionery has always been at the heart of Ramadan. It’s a season of sweetness, shared memories and indulgence, where every flavour tells a story.

With just weeks to go, brands need to anticipate what consumers will crave this season, whether it’s comforting nostalgic flavours, beautifully packaged gifts, or innovative new treats.

Packaging is being refreshed, traditional flavours are being reimagined and gifting is more decadent than ever - here are the leading trends every confectionery professional should know this Ramadan.
 

Cosiness in Every Bite

As temperatures dip, consumers naturally gravitate towards rich, comforting treats that pair beautifully with tea and coffee. This year, brands are embracing warm spice and nutty profiles, with flavours such as pistachio, saffron, hazelnut and ginger taking centre stage. Decadent fillings, like caramel and cream cheese, are particularly popular in “Dubai-style” chocolates, adding a luxurious twist to familiar favourites.
 

Nostalgia In A Nutshell

In the UAE and across the GCC, Ramadan classics like syrup-soaked luqaimat dumplings, creamy atayef pancakes, kunafa and filled maamoul cookies are more than just indulgences; they evoke cherished memories of home and tradition. Modern confectioners are reinventing these nostalgic flavours for contemporary palates. FIX Dessert Chocolatier, for example, has previously introduced the limited-edition “You Karak Me Up” chocolate, blending karak tea–flavoured cream with biscuits, cardamom and saffron for a playful yet comforting experience.
 

Gifting with Grace

Ramadan is synonymous with generosity and thoughtful giving and luxury confectionery is a perfect way to express appreciation. From elegant boxes of dates to artisanal sweets, premium offerings are designed to impress. Bateel, for instance, unveils its exclusive luxury Ramadan date collection each year, featuring high-end organic dates, gourmet fillings and beautifully crafted hampers, perfect for refined gifting during the season.
 

Quiet Luxury, Bold Impact

Festive motifs and thoughtful packaging help brands capture the spirit of Ramadan, elevating both gifting and at-home indulgence. Rather than overt opulence, the trend is moving towards quiet luxury: refined designs, elegant finishes and subtle Ramadan cues. Paatchi, for example, is leading the way with luxury chocolates and nougat presented in ornate lantern-inspired boxes, offering visual impact without excess. While decorative elements remain important, restraint is key. Minimalist, tasteful packaging resonates strongly, reflecting the essence of Ramadan as a time of reflection rather than over-the-top indulgence.
 

Wrapped in Sustainability

Alongside luxury and seasonal storytelling, brands are increasingly expected to prioritise eco-conscious ingredients and packaging, without compromising on quality or aesthetics. According to PwC, 80% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainably produced or sourced goods. From bamboo gift boxes and recycled paper to reusable, minimalist packaging formats, brands can balance festive appeal with environmental responsibility. Ingredient innovation also plays a role, with cocoa alternatives such as carob, traditionally used in chocolate-style products, offering more sustainable options while aligning with evolving consumer values.
 

Looking Ahead to a Sweet Ramadan

For confectionery brands and snack innovators, these trends are more than fleeting fads; they’re opportunities to connect with consumers, celebrate heritage and make every moment of the Holy Month even more special. Staying attuned to these consumer trends now ensures your offerings are both on-trend and meaningful when the season arrives.
 

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Keep your finger on the pulse of the confectionery and snack industry by exploring the latest consumer insights and best practices on our blog. Don’t miss ISM Middle East, taking place this year from 15–17 September - the region’s leading platform for networking, innovation and trendspotting. Subscribe to our newsletter and visit ism-me.com to stay updated on the latest market insights.