Dubai Chocolate Craze Triggers Global Pistachio Shortage, Prices Soar
The viral success of FIX's "Can't Get Knafeh Of It" chocolate has led to a surge in pistachio demand, causing prices to rise sharply.

The meteoric rise of Dubai chocolate, a luxurious creation blending pistachio cream, milk chocolate, and shredded kataifi pastry, has triggered a global pistachio shortage, causing prices of the nut to skyrocket. The trend began in 2021 with the launch of the “Can’t Get Knafeh Of It” chocolate bar by Emirati brand FIX Dessert Chocolatier, created by British-Egyptian entrepreneur Sarah Hamouda and her husband Yezen Alani. Inspired by Hamouda’s pregnancy cravings, the chocolate became a modest hit until a viral TikTok video in December 2023 turned it into a worldwide sensation.
The surge in demand for pistachio-filled chocolates has strained the pistachio supply chain. Prices have soared from $7.65 per pound to $10.30 as companies scramble for the nuts. Pistachio producers were already facing shortages due to a poor harvest in the US, the leading pistachio exporter. The UAE has even seen a 40% increase in pistachio exports from Iran.
Despite the challenges, chocolatiers, including global names like Lindt and Läderach, continue to capitalize on the craze, as pistachio chocolate remains in high demand, leaving the global supply of pistachios struggling to keep pace.