Understanding Your Water Options in the UAE
In the UAE, the bottled water market offers a diverse range of products, catering to different consumer preferences and health considerations. Primarily, the choice boils down to two main types: treated water and natural mineral water.
Desalinated Water vs. Natural Mineral Water
Most local brands, such as Al Ain, Mai Dubai, and Masafi (for their desalinated variants), begin with desalinated water. This water is drawn from the sea and then treated to remove salt and impurities before minerals are added back to achieve a desired taste profile. The process is highly controlled, ensuring safety and consistency.
Natural mineral water, on the other hand, comes from a protected underground source. It maintains a constant level and proportion of minerals at the source, and no minerals can be added or removed. Brands like Evian, Volvic, and Alpin fall into this category. These brands are often imported and tend to be more expensive than locally treated options.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Water
Your choice of bottled water should go beyond simple taste and price. Health-conscious consumers, in particular, should evaluate the following factors:
Sodium Content
For individuals with high blood pressure or those concerned about fluid retention, a low-sodium or sodium-free water is highly recommended. Brands like Al Ain Zero and Mai Dubai Zero Sodium offer specific products tailored to this need, providing a healthier alternative in a market where many bottled waters have added minerals, including sodium.
pH Level
The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline water is, with 7 being neutral. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends drinking water with a pH between 6.5 and 9.5. While some marketing claims promote the benefits of alkaline water (pH > 7), scientific evidence is limited, and the body's natural buffering systems regulate its pH. However, a balanced pH is often preferred for taste and health.
Sustainability
With growing environmental awareness, many consumers prioritize brands with eco-friendly initiatives. Companies like Mai Dubai and Masafi have implemented sustainable packaging solutions, such as recycled PET (rPET) bottles, to reduce their environmental footprint. Considering a brand's commitment to sustainability is an important ethical and environmental choice.
Purity and Source
Whether from a desalinated source or a natural mountain spring, the purification process is paramount. Look for certifications like the Emirates Quality Mark (EQM), ISO 22000, and adherence to WHO standards, which guarantee quality and safety. For detailed information on different water types, the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) offers guidance on its website.
Top Water Brands in the UAE: A Comparison
To help you decide, here is a comparison of some of the most prominent water brands in the UAE market, focusing on key attributes for an informed choice. Note that mineral content can vary slightly, and some brands offer specialized variants.
| Brand | Type of Water | Source | Typical Sodium Content | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masafi | Natural Mineral Water | Hajar Mountains | Moderate | Long-standing local brand, wide distribution, sustainability focus. |
| Al Ain Water | Treated Water | Al Ain region | Varies by product | Major brand, includes a popular 'Zero Sodium' option. |
| Mai Dubai | Treated Water | DEWA (Desalinated) | Low to Zero | UAE-made, high quality, offers alkaline and zero sodium variants. |
| Evian | Natural Mineral Water | French Alps | Low | Imported, premium feel, consistent taste from natural source. |
| Aquaplus | Treated Water | Purified | Sodium-Free | Health-focused, sodium-free, mineral-balanced formula. |
| Oasis | Treated Water | Purified | Varies | Popular, reliable brand for home and office delivery. |
Making Your Final Decision
Selecting the 'best' water brand is ultimately a personal choice based on your priorities. For those prioritizing low sodium intake, options like Al Ain Zero, Mai Dubai Zero Sodium, and Aquaplus are ideal. If you prefer natural mineral water with minerals present from the source, Masafi offers a local option, while Evian provides a premium imported alternative.
For daily consumption where budget is a concern, brands like Al Ain and Mai Dubai are affordable and widely available. Companies like Oasis and Rainbow Water offer convenient 5-gallon delivery services, a practical option for families and offices.
It's also important to consider the taste and how the water makes you feel. Some people find the taste of desalinated water with added minerals different from natural mineral water. The best way to know is to try a few different brands to see which you prefer.
Conclusion
While a definitive single answer to which brand of water is best to drink in the UAE doesn't exist, a thoughtful evaluation of your health needs, budget, and environmental values will lead you to the right choice. Whether you opt for a local, low-sodium option like Al Ain Zero or a premium imported brand like Evian, the market provides plenty of high-quality choices to ensure you stay well-hydrated in the UAE's demanding climate.
In summary, the key is to understand what you need from your water. Prioritize low sodium for specific health reasons, consider pH levels for taste, and factor in sustainability for environmental impact. By doing so, you can choose a water brand that best suits your lifestyle.
