Ripe Market returns for 15th season, backing Dubai's small businesses

The Ripe Market reopens on Saturday at the Dubai Police Academy Park in Umm Suqeim, marking the start of its 15th season.

Speaking to Dubai Eye 103.8's Business Breakfast show on Friday, Lisa Kay McGrath, Head of Markets, said the market began as a series of pop-up events in parks around Dubai before moving to its flagship home at the academy in 2019.

“It’s a great place for you to come and shop local, shop from homegrown brands here in the UAE,” she said. “We’re all about supporting small businesses and giving them a platform to grow."

Alongside local organic farmers and food vendors, visitors can enjoy live music, craft workshops, free morning yoga and pilates classes, and sports facilities for padel, tennis and football.

Children’s activities include a petting zoo, horse riding, a play park and trampolines.

The market draws an average of 8,000 to 10,000 visitors each weekend. McGrath said that footfall gives small businesses valuable exposure, and pointed to Home Bakery as one brand that started at the market and outgrew it.

She said the community had rallied behind small businesses over the past seven months, and hoped that support would continue through the season.

Pets are not allowed, but visitors can watch Dubai Police dog shows throughout the season.

Businesses interested in taking part can apply through the Ripe Market website or Instagram.