A prolonged blockade in the Strait of Hormuz has resulted in a severe feed shortage for UAE poultry producers, pushing some small and medium-sized farms to halt production.
The ongoing blockade in the Strait of Hormuz has led to significant feed shortages in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), causing some small and medium-sized poultry farms to halt their operations. Regions such as Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah are experiencing the brunt of these shortages, raising new concerns over food security. While rerouted shipments have provided some relief, they come at an increased cost and prolonged delivery times. Social media posts and local news outlets confirm major disruptions in deliveries to poultry farms in these affected emirates.
Small UAE Poultry Farms Hit Hardest
According to industry insiders, the poultry sector has been severely impacted by the blockade. Domestic feed prices have surged, and the quantities available are often insufficient to raise broilers to market weight, as reported by Feedlot, an industry news source. Small farms, especially those without agricultural land, face heightened vulnerability since they rely almost entirely on external suppliers.
“Only the largest producers are likely to survive this crisis, while smaller businesses find themselves pushed out of the market,” said the same publication.
UAE Poultry Industry Relies on Imports
Despite the challenges, the overall impact on the UAE’s food security may not be as dire as initially perceived. Domestic poultry production is on the rise, although it still fails to meet local demand. In 2025, broiler meat production in the UAE increased by 17%, reaching between 70,000 and 75,000 tonnes, according to the US Department of Agriculture.
However, the UAE continues to depend heavily on imports, sourcing approximately 70-75% of its poultry needs from abroad. Brazil remains the primary supplier, providing around 400,000 tonnes in 2025, with South Africa and several other countries among the additional exporters.
Limited agricultural space and water scarcity further exacerbate the nation’s reliance on overseas grain shipments.
Exporters Seek New Markets
In light of these challenges, major poultry exporters to the UAE are also adapting. The South African poultry industry is looking for alternative markets for around 50,000 tonnes of poultry traditionally sold to the UAE, as stated by the South African Poultry Association (SAPA).
“If the current conflict in the Middle East restricts shipping routes, we will redirect our produce domestically, potentially as frozen chicken or cooked items, thus preventing total loss,” explained Izaak Breitenbach, CEO of SAPA.
