Iranian saffron is a highly prized spice that is known for its unique flavour and high quality. The UAE, particularly Dubai, is one of the leading countries for buying high-quality Iranian saffron. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the latest prices of Iranian saffron in the UAE and the factors that affect it. We will also provide you with tips on how to identify the quality of saffron and where to buy saffron from trusted sellers. Whether you are a seasoned buyer or new to the world of saffron, our guide will help you make informed decisions and get the best quality saffron at the best price.
Saffron Price UAE
| Saffron Grade | Packaging Type | Estimated Price Range (AED/kg) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Super Negin | Bulk (1–5 kg) | 4,500 – 4,750 | Premium quality with all-red stigmas. |
| Bulk (5+ kg) | 4,500 | Best for large-scale purchases. | |
| Retail (1g pack) | 3.5 – 10 per gram | Suitable for consumer sales. | |
| Negin | Bulk (1–5 kg) | 4,500 – 4,750 | High-quality, widely used. |
| Bulk (5+ kg) | 4,500 | Competitive pricing for bulk buyers. | |
| Retail (1g pack) | 3.5 – 10 per gram | Popular among retailers. | |
| Sargol | Bulk (1–5 kg) | 4,500 – 4,750 | Suitable for restaurants and spice shops. |
| Bulk (5+ kg) | 4,500 | Cost-effective for food industries. | |
| Retail (1g pack) | 3.5 – 10 per gram | Accessible for general consumers. | |
| Pushal | Bulk (1–5 kg) | 4,500 – 4,750 | Affordable option for larger quantities. |
| Bulk (5+ kg) | 4,500 | Ideal for markets demanding larger volumes. | |
| Retail (1g pack) | 3.5 – 10 per gram | Budget-friendly for retail sales. |
Factors Affecting Saffron Price in UAE
Why does the price of saffron in Dubai vary? There are certain general factors that affect the price of all goods and services in a market. However, some other unique factors which more directly influence the saffron price in UAE:
1) Grade and Purity (ISO 3632)
The potency of saffron directly affects its price. These characteristics are rated with international saffron grading systems like ISO 3632 and based on the following key factors:
Crocin (Color strength)– The deepness of red color of saffron determines its grading level. The higher the color grade, the more superior its strength and quality.
Picrocrocin (Flavor strength)– The picrocrocin content is also an indicator of the strength of saffron’s flavor.
Safranal (Aroma)– The safranal content in saffron is the most significant indication of aroma.
Moisture level & Floral Waste– The lower the content of moisture and floral waste, the higher the grade of saffron.
Super Negin and Saffron of Higher Purity are the most superior quality of saffron and therefore usually have a higher price.
2) Origin
The place of saffron origin determines its general reputation, character in taste and aroma, and quality. The most influential factors are:
Iranian saffron: Iranian saffron is the gold standard of the spice in the world, thanks to the unmatched superiority of its characteristics. Premium Iranian saffron from the best regions of Iran, like Esfahan or Kashan, can always have the highest saffron price in UAE.
Afghan, Spanish, or Greek saffron: High-quality saffron also comes from these countries, but due to a less strong flavor, different growing conditions, and relative unfamiliarity to consumers, these usually have a lower price.
3) Supply Chain and Market Dynamics
As for any product, the elements of the saffron supply chain have a significant impact on the price of the imported spice in UAE:
Import efficiency: How quickly and easily the saffron is transported into UAE, including the shipping time and costs, directly determines its price.
Customs and Tariffs: If there are any custom duties or import taxes applied to the saffron, this will also increase its price for consumers.
Distribution Network: The existence of reputable local distributors and suppliers to the saffron spice is what ensures that it will make it to retail stores in the right conditions. The better-established the network, the higher the saffron prices can be.
Market Competition: The number of saffron sellers in UAE and the general market environment also impact price changes.
4) Quantity Purchased
Buying in bulk also has a significant influence on the price per gram of saffron. Naturally, buying a large package of saffron is going to be more cost-efficient than buying several smaller ones. Therefore:
Wholesale and retail price: Bulk saffron purchases (wholesale) usually have a lower price.
Saffron price for small purchases: If you’re just an occasional saffron user, you can usually find trustworthy stores that have a small package of saffron spice and don’t expect a lower price for that.
read more: Guide to Purchasing Saffron
Saffron Types: Your Guide to Buying Saffron in the UAE
The quality and market value of saffron are deeply connected to its grading system. When buying saffron in the UAE, understanding these grades will help you make an informed choice based on your needs and budget. The following are the internationally recognized saffron grades, each offering different levels of potency, aroma, and visual appeal.
read more: Types of iranin saffron
Super Negin saffron, as the name implies, is the highest quality saffron. It has long, thick, deep red threads with no yellow parts. Super Negin has the strongest colouring power and the most intense aroma of all the grades. It is the most expensive and is often sought after by luxury restaurants and high-end consumers.
Order and buy Super Negin saffron online
what is Negin saffron? It is almost identical to Super Negin, but the threads are slightly shorter and may have a tiny bit of yellow. The color and aroma are also excellent, and this grade is popular among both professional chefs and home cooks who want the best quality saffron at a slightly lower price.
Order and buy Negin saffron online
Sargol grade consists of only the red tips of the saffron stigmas. The threads are shorter and often broken, but they still have strong color and aroma. Sargol is the most commonly used grade in culinary and medicinal applications in the UAE.
Order and buy Sargol saffron Online:
Pushal (or Mancha) saffron includes the red stigma and a portion of the yellow style that is attached to it. It is a lower quality saffron, but it still has a good color and aroma. It is less expensive than Negin and Sargol and is often used in households and small businesses.
Order and buy Pushal saffron online
Dasteh or bunch saffron includes the entire thread (red stigma, yellow style, and white base). It has the weakest coloring strength and aroma, but it is the most inexpensive and is often used for everyday cooking and tea.
As saffron is easily adulterated and counterfeited, when buying saffron in UAE, one should buy it only from reliable sources and check for its purity (pure red color), strong pleasant aroma, and the packaging. A lot of suppliers offer lab-certified Iranian saffron, and it has the highest market share (more than 90%), so consumers often prefer it. The price for 10 grams of high-quality saffron is typically around 150 UAE dirhams, but it can vary based on the grade and the source. Overall, there are several types and grades of saffron available in UAE, and by knowing them, a buyer can choose the right one as per their requirement and budget and get the best value and quality.
Is Buying Saffron in Dubai Worth It?
Buying saffron in Dubai is absolutely worth considering for anyone in the UAE looking for authentic, high-quality saffron. Thanks to Dubai’s role as the country’s main trading hub, it offers direct access to premium saffron sourced from leading global producers, including Iran and Afghanistan. The city’s spice markets and reputable online stores provide a wide selection that caters to both everyday cooking and luxury culinary needs.
If you’re specifically interested in exploring trusted places to purchase saffron within the city, you can check our detailed guide on where to buy saffron in Dubai. It covers reliable vendors, price comparisons, and practical tips to ensure you get genuine saffron at the best possible value — contributing to an overall competitive saffron price in UAE.
Where to Buy Saffron in the UAE?
Shopping for saffron in UAE is a convenient process with trusted sources for buyers to ensure access to authentic and high-quality products. Purchasing can be done from traditional marketplaces, supermarkets, online stores, and other reliable shops.
Online stores including Noon.com and Amazon.ae as well as specialty saffron e-shops have a variety of saffron types and grades from different origins. These online platforms have more competitive pricing with lower overhead costs, and the added benefit of home delivery. It’s always recommended to check ratings for sellers and products carefully before ordering to reduce the risk of counterfeit saffron.
Supermarkets and hypermarkets such as Carrefour UAE have a variety of popular saffron brands for general consumers to purchase when shopping for other items. Availability of premium and specialized high-grade saffron might be more limited than in specialty spice shops.
Specialty spice shops and traditional souks, including Dubai Spice Souk, are great places to purchase saffron with direct imports of high-quality saffron. Vendors usually have expert knowledge and can assist in selecting different saffron types.
Wholesalers or importers are the best options for businesses or those looking for large quantities or bulk purchases of saffron. Purchasing from wholesalers directly offers more competitive pricing per unit and can also ensure a steady supply for commercial use.
The Esfedan Group is a notable supplier in the wholesale market with a strong presence in importing and processing saffron. Established in 1998 in Iran, Esfedan is a leading company that exports saffron with wholesale prices and a certified quality policy. The company ensures rigorous control of all stages of the production process, from cultivation and harvesting to processing and packaging. All Esfedan products pass safety and quality standards globally recognize,d such as FSSC 22000, ISO 22000, HACCP, HALAL, and others. The Esfedan company is a large supplier with the reputation and production capacity to serve buyers in the UAE looking for bulk, instant and certified saffron.
Tips on buying saffron in the UAE and considerations to take note of include the colour, aroma, and packaging. Checking these elements can reduce the risk of purchasing counterfeit saffron. The price can vary by saffron grade and weight, with premium varieties such as Super Negin priced higher.
Disclaimer: We are not part of or a representative for the Esfedan Group or any other company mentioned in this article.
Buying saffron in Dubai also has similar sources as mentioned above, as well as the Dubai Spice Souk, where different types of saffron can be purchased for personal use and wholesale.
Getting the Best Saffron Deals
Tips for Getting the Best Deals when Buying Saffron in UAE:
Compare Prices across Channels:
Check prices from different sources, such as online platforms, major supermarkets, and specialized spice shops, to find the most competitive rates for the desired saffron grade.
Buy in Bulk:
If you consume saffron regularly or require a larger quantity, consider purchasing in bulk, which can lower the cost per gram and offer better value for money.
Check for Authenticity and Grade:
Opt for sellers who offer certifications (such as ISO 3632) and provide detailed information on the saffron’s origin, grade, and testing results to ensure authenticity and quality.
How to Buy Iranian Saffron in Dubai?
Dubai is a central hub for Iranian saffron distribution, but ensuring authenticity when purchasing can be tricky. To make sure you’re getting genuine saffron, follow these tips:
-
Verify Source Reputation:
When purchasing Iranian saffron, choose well-established spice merchants or specialized saffron stores known for their direct and ethical sourcing from Iran. Look for vendors who mention specific Iranian brands or regions. -
Check Packaging Details:
Authentic Iranian saffron is typically packaged professionally, with clear labelling that includes essential details such as the origin, grade, and sometimes batch numbers or producer information. Always check these details to confirm the saffron’s authenticity. -
Beware of Unrealistic Prices:
Be cautious of saffron that is priced too low. Extremely cheap Iranian saffron often indicates adulteration, lower quality, or misrepresentation. Genuine, high-grade saffron will always command a premium price.
Why Choose Esfadan for Your Saffron Purchase?
If you’re looking for premium Iranian saffron, Esfadan is a trusted wholesale supplier, providing top-quality saffron directly from the source. As a leading wholesaler, we specialize in offering bulk saffron orders to businesses, chefs, and other large-scale buyers. We guarantee the authenticity, purity, and superior quality of all our saffron products.
Here’s how you can place your order with us:
-
Contact Us Directly:
For any questions or to discuss your bulk purchase needs, feel free to reach out to us. Our dedicated team will assist you in selecting the best saffron based on your specific requirements. -
Fill Out the Order Form:
Complete our simple online order form with your contact information and product preferences. Once submitted, our customer service team will process your order promptly and arrange fast, reliable delivery across Dubai and the UAE.
Wholesale Saffron in UAE
Buying saffron at wholesale prices has many advantages for businesses, restaurants, and bulk customers in UAE, especially when compared to retail prices. Esfadan as a trusted wholesaler, provides competitive prices, top-notch quality, and direct import from Iran without any middlemen. Our volume discounts ensure lower prices the more you buy. With over 21 national awards as a leading exporter, Esfadan guarantees freshness, consistency, and reliability with ISO 22000, FSSC 22000, HACCP, and HALAL certifications. Whether you are a food manufacturer or a restaurant, Esfadan has bulk saffron and instant saffron options for all your business needs. Contact us today to place your bulk order and experience the quality at unbeatable prices!
Saffron in UAE / Dubai / Abu Dhabi
| Emirate | Saffron Availability | Pricing Trends | Sample Pricing (per kg) | Key Points |
| Dubai | Wide selection in retail outlets, specialized souks, and online platforms. Both retail and wholesale options. | Competitive pricing with a wide range of saffron qualities and origins. | Super Negin: 20,000 – 30,000 AED, Negin: 15,000 – 20,000 AED, Sargol: 10,000 – 15,000 AED, Pushal: 8,000 – 12,000 AED, Dasteh: 5,000 – 8,000 AED |
Dubai is a central hub for saffron distribution in the UAE, offering the largest variety and competitive prices.
|
| Abu Dhabi | Available in major supermarkets, spice shops, and online platforms with efficient delivery. | Pricing similar to Dubai for comparable saffron grades. | Super Negin: 20,000 – 30,000 AED, Negin: 15,000 – 20,000 AED, Sargol: 10,000 – 15,000 AED, Pushal: 8,000 – 12,000 AED, Dasteh: 5,000 – 8,000 AED |
Abu Dhabi offers high-quality saffron through various retail and online platforms, with similar pricing to Dubai.
|
| Other Emirates (Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah) | Available in leading retail establishments and accessible via e-commerce and logistics networks. | Consistent pricing across the emirates due to efficient import channels. | Super Negin: 20,000 – 30,000 AED, Negin: 15,000 – 20,000 AED, Sargol: 10,000 – 15,000 AED, Pushal: 8,000 – 12,000 AED, Dasteh: 5,000 – 8,000 AED |
Other emirates benefit from robust e-commerce and logistics, ensuring saffron is accessible with consistent pricing.
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Iranian Saffron Price in UAE
Iranian saffron is one of the most well-known saffron in the world, which is why Iranian saffron price in UAE is considered as a benchmark for the best saffron in terms of aroma, coloring power and overall quality. Iranian saffron commands a premium price in the international market because it is the most produced saffron in the world with long history of experience in cultivation and harvesting processes. The processing and quality control that the saffron undergoes also guarantees the best saffron in the world.
In fact, Iranian saffron is often more expensive than other types of saffron, however, due to its amazing sensory attributes and high quality standards it is considered to be worth the price.
The saffron price in UAE for Iranian saffron will depend on the grade (Super Negin, for example) and the purity (ISO 3632 category) of the product, as well as the cost of sourcing for the vendor. For example, the Esfedan Saffron price is often much higher, as it guarantees high quality products in terms of Esfedan’s brand and saffron grade.
Conclusion
Saffron Price in UAE: Factors such as the grade, origin, and quantity of saffron all impact the saffron price in the UAE. There is a strong correlation between these factors, and comprehending them is essential before making a purchase. As a result, the grade of saffron has a direct impact on the price. A saffron with the AA++ grade or higher is likely to be more expensive than one with a lower quality. The saffron price in UAE will also fluctuate depending on where it is grown. While Iranian saffron is frequently regarded as the most expensive and purest form of saffron, Spanish saffron is less expensive but still of high quality. The amount of saffron being bought will also affect the saffron price in the UAE, with bulk purchases usually costing less per unit than smaller ones. You may ensure you are obtaining high-quality saffron and a fair price for it by taking the grade, origin, and quantity into account when shopping, as well as utilizing the tips to identify whether you are getting genuine saffron or not. It is critical to buy from a reputable source, such as Esfedan Saffron, whether you are using saffron for cooking, medicinal purposes, or selling. This will ensure that the saffron you get is both authentic and of good quality. Follow the recommended storage practices to keep the saffron’s unique features intact. It will be rewarding to buy saffron with confidence.
What Saffron Is Used For and How to Buy It?
Saffron is one of the world’s most valuable spices, used mainly for cooking, tea, and natural coloring. It adds a unique aroma, deep golden color, and rich flavor to dishes like rice, desserts, and soups. Beyond culinary uses, saffron is also valued in traditional medicine and cosmetics for its antioxidant and mood-enhancing properties.
Because saffron is so delicate and harvested by hand from the Crocus sativus flower, it’s very expensive. The high cost comes from the labor-intensive process—each flower produces only three tiny red threads (stigmas)—and from the need for tens of thousands of flowers to make just one kilogram of saffron.
Where to Buy Saffron and Ensure Authenticity
If you’re in Dubai, the city is a major hub for Iranian saffron distribution, but buying genuine saffron requires care:
Verify Source Reputation – Buy from well-known spice merchants or saffron-specialized stores that directly source from Iran.
Check Packaging Details – Authentic Iranian saffron comes in sealed, labeled packages with details like origin, grade, and batch number.
Beware of Unrealistic Prices – Extremely cheap saffron is often fake or low-quality. Genuine Iranian saffron always has a premium price.
Why Choose Esfadan Saffron
Esfadan is a trusted Iranian saffron wholesaler offering high-quality, certified saffron directly from Iran. They provide:
Bulk saffron orders for restaurants, chefs, and food manufacturers.
Certifications like ISO 22000, FSSC 22000, HACCP, and HALAL.
Competitive wholesale prices with no middlemen.
Fast delivery across Dubai and the UAE.
You can order easily by filling out the online order form or contacting Esfadan’s sales team for personalized bulk orders.
