As global consumers become more health-conscious and demand for Mediterranean food products continues to grow, Iranian olives and olive oil are gaining significant traction in the Middle East. With over 100,000 hectares of olive orchards and growing investment in modern processing facilities, Iran has positioned itself as a rising player in the global olive industry.

From green table olives to extra virgin olive oil, Iran’s offerings are attracting importers, supermarkets, and culinary professionals across the Gulf and Levant. In this article, we’ll dive into the top Middle Eastern destinations for Iranian olive exports in 2025, analyze market trends, and explain why Iranian olives are an ideal choice for buyers in the region.

Why Iranian Olives Stand Out in the Middle East

Iran’s olive-producing regions—such as Gilan, Zanjan, Fars, Golestan, and Qazvin—boast ideal growing conditions and centuries-old cultivation traditions. This has resulted in a diverse and rich olive product portfolio that meets international standards.

Key Advantages of Iranian Olives:

•  High oil content and intense flavor profiles

•  Organic and traditional farming methods

•  Competitive export pricing

•  Variety of packaging and product formats (bulk, glass jars, tins)

•  Compliance with international food safety standards (ISO, HACCP)

These benefits make Iranian olives especially appealing to health-focused consumers, Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts, and halal food markets in the Middle East.

Top Export Destinations for Iranian Olives in the Middle East

Let’s take a closer look at the top markets in the Middle East where Iranian olive exports are thriving in 2025:

1. Iraq: The Leading Buyer of Iranian Agricultural Goods

Iraq has been the primary importer of Iranian olives and olive oil for years. The two countries share not only a border but also deep cultural and culinary ties.

Why Iraq is a Top Market:

•  Geographical proximity ensures lower transport costs

•  Strong presence of Iranian goods in Iraqi supermarkets

•  High demand for table olives and olive oil in restaurants and homes

•  Simplified cross-border trade procedures, especially in the Kurdistan region

Best-selling products: Green olives, cracked olives in brine, and pure olive oil in bulk and bottled formats.

2. United Arab Emirates (UAE): A Gateway to the Gulf

The UAE, especially Dubai, acts as a strategic re-export hub for Iranian products across the Gulf region, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

Why the UAE is Crucial:

•  Home to a multicultural consumer base and luxury food scene

•  Demand for organic and Mediterranean products is growing fast

•  Excellent logistics and port infrastructure (e.g., Jebel Ali Port)

•  Retailers seek cost-effective yet premium-quality suppliers

Target Segments: Organic food stores, hotels, gourmet restaurants, food re-export companies.

3. Oman: A Friendly and Stable Trade Partner

Oman maintains stable diplomatic and trade relations with Iran, making it a valuable market for high-quality food exports, including olives.

Why Oman is a High-Potential Market:

•  Omani consumers value traditional and natural products

•  Demand for healthy oils and snack olives is increasing

•  Fewer trade restrictions compared to other Gulf countries

•  Trusted Iranian brands already have a foothold in Omani markets

Top products: Extra virgin olive oil, stuffed olives, and traditional pickled varieties.

4. Qatar: A Niche Market with High Spending Power

Qatar’s affluent population and dynamic foodservice industry make it a high-value market for premium olive products. The demand is especially strong among hotels, fine dining restaurants, and health-conscious consumers.

Why Export to Qatar:

•  Growing interest in Mediterranean and organic diets

•  High per capita income and openness to imported specialty foods

•  Flourishing hospitality and tourism sectors post-World Cup 2022

•  Importers actively seek new suppliers for healthy and gourmet foods

In-demand products: Premium bottled olive oil, olive oil gift boxes, organic table olives.

5. Kuwait: Small but Influential

While Kuwait is smaller than other Gulf countries, it offers strong purchasing power and a loyal consumer base for high-quality olive products.

Market Highlights:

•  Iranian olives are known and trusted by Kuwaiti consumers

•  Supermarkets and delicatessens look for authentic Mediterranean flavors

•  Excellent market for branded, retail-ready olive products

•  Emphasis on clean labeling, health benefits, and taste

Best options: Vacuum-packed olives, flavored olives, and private label olive oil.

How Tamila Agrifood Supports Olive Export Growth

At Tamila Agrifood Company, we are proud to be among the reliable exporters of Iranian olives and olive oil to the Middle East. With a strong supply chain, modern packaging facilities, and export licenses in place, we provide:

•  Custom packaging solutions for bulk buyers and retail chains

•  High-quality, lab-tested olive oil and olives

•  Efficient logistics and documentation support

•  Private labeling services for regional brands

•  Bilingual support (English/Arabic) for seamless communication

Whether you're a distributor in Dubai, a retailer in Muscat, or a food brand in Baghdad, our team is ready to help you grow your product portfolio with authentic Iranian olives.

Final Thoughts: A Growing Opportunity in 2025

The Middle Eastern market presents exciting opportunities for Iranian olive exporters in 2025. As regional demand for natural, healthy, and culturally relevant products rises, Iranian olives are well-positioned to become a household staple across the Gulf and Levant.

By understanding the preferences of each country and offering tailored solutions, exporters can build long-term, profitable partnerships throughout the Middle East.

Let’s Work Together

If you’re looking to source high-quality Iranian olives or olive oil, let’s connect. We’re open to new partnerships and ready to send samples, catalogs, and price quotes upon request.