Budou-no-Mori, based in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, has expanded internationally by opening a factory in Sharjah. This marks its first overseas venture and the inaugural establishment of a Japanese food manufacturing base in the UAE.
The company plans to offer its signature ‘Katanuki Baumkuchen’—a uniquely crafted Baumkuchen—at Dubai Mall and other venues, marketing it as a premium Japanese-quality Dubai souvenir. This confection is produced in Japan and shipped frozen to the UAE.
The Sharjah factory customizes the confection’s surface designs, incorporating images like camels and Dubai landmarks. These outlines are expertly cut with a Sugino Machine water cutter, and the designs are printed on the confectionery.
To appeal to local tastes, Budou-no-Mori also creates UAE-made chocolates using a Kanazawa technique with gold leaf, offering a luxurious new souvenir option.
Tourism in the UAE, particularly Dubai, is on the rise, with projected international visitor numbers reaching 18.72 million in 2024, far exceeding the local population of 3.82 million.
Dubai Airport is set to relocate to a new, larger facility, enhancing its capacity. Other UAE regions like Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, with upcoming attractions, also see tourism as vital, driving demand for high-quality souvenirs.
Future Vision and Saif Zone’s Support
By manufacturing in Sharjah, we aim to share the Japanese ethos of omotenashi (hospitality) with Dubai’s diverse audience.
Saif Zone’s media team welcomed this investment, stating, “Budou-no-Mori’s investment highlights confidence in Sharjah’s business climate, adding new value.”
Saif Zone expressed optimism that our factory will aid local development and employment.
“We believe the Grape Tree FZE project will enhance cultural exchange between Japan and Dubai, supporting mutual growth. Together with our team, led by Abliz, we will deepen collaboration with SAIF ZONE, promoting Japanese values of omotenashi and monozukuri (craftsmanship) globally.”
