Manbat visitors have free access to Aljada attractions, including adventure playground, skatepark and drive-in cinema
Manbat, the popular Emirati farmers’ market, is returning to Sharjah destination Aljada this Friday in time for the winter season. A joint initiative between Arada and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the Manbat market promotes the best of the UAE’s healthy, home-grown produce in a fun and family-friendly environment.
Following a successful first season, the Manbat market will be ready to welcome visitors again between 4pm and 9pm every Friday.
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, CEO of Arada, said: “Manbat has been designed to offer families a fun and safe day out, while also supporting local farmers and promoting high quality fresh produce from Emirati farms at the same time. The Manbat market is just the first step in our partnership with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and we hope to announce further initiatives to bring consumers and farmers together in the near future.”
More than just a market, a weekend trip to Manbat is an experience the whole family can enjoy. As well as a variety of stalls offering an impressive range of home-grown produce from all over the UAE, there are also child-friendly activations, tasting opportunities, workshops and other activities.
Visitors to Manbat can also access a range of activities on offer at Aljada, one of the UAE’s fastest-growing destinations with over 100,000 visitors a month. These include a softplay adventure playground, skatepark, waterplay area and the Zad food district, which features 24 different types of cuisine.
Families can even take in a free movie at Aljada’s drive-in cinema, with kids’ cartoon hit Ice Age: The Great Egg-Scapade showing at 8pm and superhero blockbuster Fantastic Four screening at 9.30pm.
The markets also provide the UAE’s farmers with an opportunity to showcase their produce to consumers and retail buyers, building up strength in locally grown food. In addition, the initiative also assists farmers by giving them valuable experience in the marketing and selling of their goods.
Launched in January 2021, Manbat’s goal is to provide a link between local farmers and consumers in the UAE, encouraging the consumption of healthy, home-grown produce, supporting the local economy and improving the strength of the Emirati agriculture sector. The last edition of Manbat drew the participation of 39 farms from all seven emirates, who all sold their produce directly to Aljada’s visitors.