Break fast at any iftar in Dubai and Vimto will almost certainly be on the table alongside lamb ouzi and lentil soup. This sweet, fruity cordial has become the UAE's most iconic Ramadan drink — and for millions of Muslims across the Gulf, that first sip truly signals the fast is over.
The History of Vimto in the Middle East
Vimto was originally created in Manchester in 1908 as a herbal tonic designed to give drinkers "vim and vigour." It was rebranded as a cordial the same year and quickly found an audience across the British Empire's trade routes.
The Aujan family — founders of Abdulla Aujan & Brothers, established in Bahrain in 1905 — introduced Vimto to the Gulf in 1927, securing the exclusive distribution license by 1928. From that point on, Muslims across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and beyond began relying on it to break their fasts. Its blend of blackcurrant, raspberry, and cherry, rich in natural sugars, made it the ideal iftar beverage for replenishing energy after a day-long fast.
The Vimto Ramadan Ritual
What makes Vimto special is not just the taste — it is how it is prepared. Making the drink has become a family ritual: some households dilute it lightly for a subtler flavour, others keep it thick and sweet. Vimto Arabia calls it a taste of "Sweet Togetherness," a tradition passed from one generation to the next, with each family preparing it their own way.
The Middle Eastern version of Vimto is notably more concentrated than the UK version and requires more water when mixing. At Dubai's iftars, you will often find a pre-mixed version served alongside fresh juices and other sweet drinks.
Dubai's Favourite Ramadan Drink
Vimto has stayed at the top of Dubai's Ramadan table through clever marketing as well as genuine affection. A memorable personalized-bottle campaign at Dubai Mall helped cement its modern following, but its staying power runs deeper than any marketing push.
More than 25 million bottles of Vimto are sold across the region every Ramadan — a figure that reflects just how thoroughly this century-old British cordial has been adopted as a Gulf institution. For anyone spending Ramadan in Dubai, it is not just a drink to try; it is a tradition to experience.
