The event was attended by over 75 participants. Dr. Ahmed Mukhtar, United Nations Representative to the Food and Agricultural Organization in the United Arab Emirates, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Senior officials from the UAE, diplomats, tea importers, media personnel, and other stakeholders participated in the event. Dilmah Tea, Ahmed Tea, Akbar Tea, Stassen Tea, and Easwaran Brothers showcased the finest of Ceylon tea.
Delivering her welcome remarks, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the United Arab Emirates, Dr. Arusha Cooray, highlighted the significance of United Nations declared International Tea Day and emphasised Sri Lanka’s rare diversity in tea production, featuring seven unique regional varieties that remain unparalleled in the global tea industry.
Dr. Ahmed Mukhtar, United Nations Representative to the Food and Agriculture Organization in the United Arab Emirates, delivered his keynote address, sharing his insights on the exceptional variety of Ceylon Tea, its sustainable cultivation practices, and the competitive edge it holds in global markets. He emphasized the importance of strengthening the global identity of Ceylon Tea.
Mr. Mohamed Rikas, a certified tea master from Ahmad Tea in the United Arab Emirates, conducted an exclusive Ceylon tea tasting session, highlighting the premium quality, rich aroma, refreshing taste, and diverse regional characteristics of Sri Lanka’s seven tea growing regions. Each regional black tea was carefully brewed and presented in an interactive tasting session, allowing participants to identify and appreciate the unique flavour, profiles and characteristics of each tea variety.
Product samples provided by the Sri Lanka Tea Board and tea importers were displayed at the venue enabling guests to explore the teas’ aromas, textures, diversity, and packaging first-hand.
The event concluded with a networking session, during which guests were served traditional Sri Lankan canapés accompanied by Ceylon teas and tea based mocktails.
