World’s first date cola set to shake up UAE’s soft drink scene

Dubai is about to get a taste of Milaf Cola, the world’s first date-based fizzy drink that’s already gone viral in Saudi Arabia.
Ditching traditional sweeteners, this revolutionary cola uses date extract, making it a healthier and more sustainable alternative to mainstream sodas. The drink was originally created to reduce food waste by repurposing dates. The Kingdom grows a certain variety of dates that need to be eaten semi-dry. But when it becomes too soaked, no one eats it even though the fibre content and sweetness increase. “So from a sustainable perspective, we brought the date into our factory and got an extract which we then used to produce the cola,” Mohamed El-Nahas, Senior Director of Product Development, was quoted as saying in the local media.
After its sensational launch in November 2024, Milaf Cola is now gearing up for its UAE debut in April, thanks to a partnership with the Lulu Group. The cola will be available in three flavours: classic cola, orange, and lemon.
Cola Wars Heat Up in the UAE
Milaf isn’t the only new kid on the block— India’s Campa Cola is also making a comeback, and another buzz-worthy entrant, 51 Agave Cola, is bringing a natural agave-sweetened soda to the region. This drink, free from additives, comes in cherry and spiced flavours for those looking for a guilt-free sip.
With all these new-age colas hitting UAE shelves soon, soda lovers are in for an exciting, bubbly showdown.
(Source: ET, Khaleej Times)