The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai celebrated” International Tea Day 2026” an event dedicated to the heritage and excellence of tea as designated by the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 74/241 and led by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to promote sustainable tea production and consumption.

The event highlighted Sri Lanka’s rich heritage as one of the world’s leading tea producers and tea’s role in fighting poverty and hunger while supporting rural livelihoods. The event held at the Consulate General premises on 21 May 2026, was organized in close coordination with the Sri Lank Tea Board promoting Ceylon Tea, cultivated mainly in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and well known for its unique flavor, quality, and diversity. During the event Sri Lanka’s tea production was showcased by providing a better understanding on a wide range of teas, including black, green, white and flavored teas, supporting sustainable livelihoods for thousands of local farmers.

The celebration showcased the diversity and excellence of Ceylon Tea, renowned globally for its distinct flavor, aroma, and quality. Guests enjoyed tea tasting sessions featuring premium Ceylon Tea verities, with a special focus on Ceylon tea from seven regions of Sri Lanka along with demonstrations on traditional tea preparation and brewing techniques. Representing the leading tea exporters from the country Dilmah, Akbar Brothers, Eswaran and Basilur tea attended the event conducting tea tasting sessions, displays and conducting tea counters at the event.

In his remarks, the Consul General of Sri Lanka to Dubai and Northern Emirates, Alexi Gunasekera emphasized the significance of tea as not only a major export commodity but also a symbol of Sri Lanka’s culture and heritage. He stated, “Ceylon Tea is a source of national pride and a bridge connecting Sri Lanka with the world. International Tea Day provides an opportunity to celebrate this heritage and promote sustainable tea production that benefits our communities.”

The event also highlighted the efforts of Sri Lanka in promoting sustainable and ethical tea production, supporting local farmers, and maintaining high-quality standards that have made Ceylon Tea a household name globally. Main segments of the event included tea tasting sessions, presentation from Dilmah Tea and Akbar Brothers, ceremonial tea cake cutting, raffle draw and experience sharing of the invitees.

The event was attended  by a cross section targeted audience comprised with diplomats including Consuls General from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, the Netherlands, Nepal, Pakistan, Peru, Russia, Singapore, Türkiye, USA and diplomats from India, Japan,  Kuwait, representatives from the Chambers/Business Councils in the UAE, business leaders, representatives from the Media Academy of the UAE, tea traders, tea enthusiasts, leading food importers/distributors, Country Manager of Sri Lanka Airlines and senior representatives, Emirates Airline, Air Canada, Qatar airways, Ari Arabia, Fly Dubai and Fits Air, Media personnel including Khaleej Times, Gulf News, The National, Media Influencers and members of the Sri Lankan Professionals in the UAE.

Attendees were able to experience the journey of Ceylon Tea from the lush highlands of Sri Lanka to the cup, gaining insights into its cultivation, harvesting, and global significance. Thambapanni restaurants in the UAE joined the event as the catering partner in providing an opportunity for the invitees to taste authentic Sri Lanka dishes.

Kelum Sujith Perera of Sri Lions Sports Club and Rashmi Perera of Naturaz extended their generous support to the Consulate General of Sri Lanka by contributing towards the beautification and transformation of the Consulate General premises for the successful hosting of the event.

Kasun Sigera extended his valuable support in compering the event with professionalism and enthusiasm, while Mahesh Sameera Jayasooriya supported the occasion through photography, capturing memorable moments of the event with excellent coverage. Their contributions greatly assisted in making the programme a memorable and successful occasion.

A raffle draw was arranged at the end of the event with support of Cinnamon Hotels, Jetwing Hotels, Siddhalepa Ayurveda Heal Resort, Air Arabia, Dilmah Tea, Akbar Brothers, Eswaran and Basilur Ceylon Premium Tea with a view to promote Sri Lanka as a tourist destinating among this targeted audience on the sidelines of the Ceylon tea promotion. The Consulate General continues to strengthen cultural and trade ties between Sri Lanka and the UAE through such initiatives, fostering appreciation for Sri Lanka’s tea industry and culinary heritage.

Consulate General of Sri Lanka

Dubai and Northern Emirates

26 May 2026