If you’re attending an iftar in Dubai, you’ll notice an array of local Arabian favourites on the table – from lamb ouzi to lentil soup – but among the drinks, one stands out: Vimto.
For many residents of Dubai, the fast hasn’t truly been broken until a glass of this iconic fruit cordial has been sipped. The drink, a mix of cherry, blackcurrant, and raspberry flavours, has become a Ramadan staple over the years, with over 25 million bottles sold across the Middle East during the holy month each year.
Originally a childhood classic for Brits, Vimto has seamlessly positioned itself alongside dates as a go-to way to break the fast. But what makes it so special? The answer is simpler than you might think: its sugary sweetness gives a quick energy boost after a day-long fast. Yet, that’s just the tip of the story.
A Brief History of Vimto in the Middle East
Vimto celebrated a century of international presence in 2023, but its origins go even further back. Created in Manchester in 1908, the drink began life as a medicinal tonic called Vim Tonic before being rebranded as a cordial in 1913. By 1924, it had reached India, quickly becoming popular among both locals and expats.
Vimto made its way to the Middle East in 1927 when the Aujan family of Saudi Arabia introduced it as a drink ideally suited for breaking the fast. Its popularity quickly spread to Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, Jordan, Egypt, and the UAE.
Over time, clever marketing moves, like personalised bottles at Dubai Mall featuring your name, cemented Vimto’s status as a Ramadan essential.
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The Vimto Ramadan Ritual
What makes Vimto truly special is the ritual around making it. Every family in the UAE has its own method of preparing the cordial. Some prefer a more diluted, watery texture, while others like a richer, sweeter syrup.
Vimto Arabia explains this tradition perfectly:
“Vimto has become a profound family tradition and legacy rooted in the Khaleeji heritage for nearly a century, carving a strong bond with consumers across different ages. The cordial is Ramadan’s symbol of ‘Sweet Togetherness,’ prepared and shared by families, with each mother passing her unique recipe down to her daughters.”
This ritual has transformed Vimto from a simple beverage into a cherished cultural symbol, bridging generations and creating memories at the iftar table.
Although Vimto is recognised internationally, the taste varies slightly depending on where it’s sold. The Arabian version is more concentrated and requires more water to achieve the perfect balance. At iftars across Dubai, you’ll often find a pre-mixed version served alongside other sweet juices.
Why Vimto Works So Well for Ramadan
The answer lies in its composition. With a mix of fruit flavours and sugar, Vimto provides a gentle boost of energy immediately after breaking the fast. Its refreshing taste also hydrates and prepares the body for the evening ahead, whether that involves more eating, socialising, or prayer.
For many families, serving Vimto is not just about taste—it’s about creating a sense of togetherness. The process of making and sharing the drink strengthens family bonds and celebrates the spirit of Ramadan.
Vimto Today in Dubai
In modern Dubai, Vimto has become more than a drink; it’s a symbol of Ramadan culture. From family homes to lavish iftars at hotels and restaurants, Vimto is a familiar sight. The cordial is served in traditional and pre-mixed forms, sometimes with twists like sparkling water or ice to suit individual preferences.
Its popularity is also supported by social traditions and marketing campaigns that highlight its heritage and connection to family rituals. The drink remains a bridge between past and present, linking Emirati families and expats alike to a shared Ramadan experience.
More Than Just a Drink
Vimto is a great example of how food and drink can carry cultural significance. In Dubai, it is celebrated not just for its flavour but for the memories and traditions it evokes. For many residents, it’s impossible to imagine Ramadan without the familiar taste of Vimto alongside dates, samosas, and other beloved iftar dishes.
Whether you’re sipping it at a family gathering, a corporate iftar, or a public Ramadan market, Vimto continues to hold a special place on the table. Its enduring appeal is a mix of nostalgia, taste, and ritual – a perfect combination for a month focused on togetherness and reflection.
The Future of Vimto in Ramadan
As Dubai continues to blend tradition with modernity, Vimto shows no signs of fading. Each year, millions of bottles are enjoyed across the city, maintaining its legacy as the quintessential Ramadan drink. Its story also highlights the global journey of a simple cordial, transforming it into a cultural icon cherished for generations.
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For visitors to Dubai during Ramadan, trying Vimto is almost a rite of passage. It’s a taste of local tradition with international roots, offering a sweet start to the evening that has been enjoyed by countless families over nearly a century.
Whether you’re breaking your fast for the first time or returning to Dubai for another Ramadan, a glass of Vimto is a must-have. It’s more than a beverage—it’s a symbol of connection, celebration, and the unique spirit of Ramadan in the UAE.
FAQs
Vimto is a traditional fruit cordial that provides a sweet energy boost after fasting. Its unique taste and family ritual have made it a Ramadan essential in Dubai.
Vimto arrived in the Middle East in 1927, brought by the Aujan family in Saudi Arabia, and quickly became a favourite drink for breaking the fast.
The Arabian version of Vimto is more concentrated and usually mixed with water before serving. Families also have unique preparation methods, adding to its cultural significance.
Vimto can be served as a pre-mixed drink at iftars or made fresh at home. It is often enjoyed alongside dates and other traditional iftar foods.
Preparing and sharing Vimto is a family ritual that connects generations, making it a symbol of togetherness, celebration, and Ramadan tradition in the UAE.
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