The UAE food and beverage (F&B) market is full of exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs. Whether you dream of opening a fine dining restaurant, launching a food truck, or starting a health-focused delivery brand, this region offers a supportive environment and growing demand. With rising food consumption, tourism, and a love for innovation, the UAE is a top destination to start a food business in the UAE F&B market and tap into one of the region’s most dynamic industries.

UAE F&B Market Overview

The UAE’s food industry continues to expand rapidly, thanks to population growth, tourism, and lifestyle changes. The country is home to diverse cultures, which makes its F&B landscape rich and dynamic. More people are dining out, ordering online, and exploring different cuisines. In 2025, the F&B market in the UAE is expected to cross USD 37 billion, with cloud kitchens, plant-based meals, and gourmet dining among the fastest-growing segments.

Consumers now look for convenience, quality, and health-driven options, driving demand for new business models like food delivery platforms, virtual kitchens, and eco-friendly packaging. Whether you plan to serve locals, tourists, or corporate clients, the UAE F&B market offers plenty of room to grow.

Choose the Right Business Structure

Before launching your food business, it’s essential to decide whether to register in the mainland or a free zone. Both have their benefits. Mainland businesses allow you to operate across the UAE and partner with delivery apps, while free zones often offer lower setup costs and 100% foreign ownership.

As a foreign investor, you can now fully own your business in several mainland sectors. But some activities still require a local sponsor. It’s important to compare the cost, legal responsibilities, and operational flexibility before making a decision.

If you plan to sell food online or launch a cloud kitchen, a free zone ecommerce license may be ideal. Lukadah can help you evaluate the best option based on your business model and target market.

Get the Required Licenses

To legally operate in the UAE F&B market, you need the right licenses. These depend on your business type, whether you run a restaurant, food truck, or cloud kitchen. You’ll need a trade license, plus food safety approvals from relevant authorities.

Some food categories, such as pork, alcohol, or shisha, require special permits and extra documentation. You may also need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Dubai Municipality or other local bodies. Having the correct licenses in place not only keeps your business compliant but also builds trust with customers and partners.

Follow Health & Safety Rules

Food safety is a top priority in the UAE. All F&B businesses must follow the Dubai Food Code, which outlines hygiene practices, storage requirements, and kitchen design standards. You must ensure your staff are trained and certified in food handling.

Obtaining an HACCP certificate is also important, especially if you produce, store, or transport food. This certificate confirms that your operation meets international safety standards and is often required by large buyers or regulators.

Find the Right Location

Choosing the right space can make or break your food business. High-traffic areas are ideal for restaurants and cafes, while low-rent delivery zones work well for cloud kitchens. Your location should match your target customers’ preferences and habits.

You’ll also need approvals for kitchen fit-outs and must meet design regulations for ventilation, drainage, and layout. Whether renting a small shop or setting up in a food hall, Lukadah can guide you through real estate selection and lease contracts.

Register for Tax & Accounting

All food businesses in the UAE must register for VAT if their income crosses the mandatory threshold. This applies to dine-in, delivery, and packaged food services. You must also maintain proper bookkeeping to ensure transparency and avoid penalties.

With the introduction of corporate tax, it’s vital to understand how profits will be taxed and what exemptions may apply. Lukadah offers accounting and VAT registration services to help you stay compliant and focus on growing your business.

Visa & Employee Support

You’ll need the right visas to operate and grow your team. Whether you’re applying for an investor visa, hiring chefs, or onboarding delivery staff, Lukadah handles the entire visa process.

Our PRO services take care of Emirates ID, medical tests, labor approvals, and visa renewals. This ensures your staff can start working quickly and legally, saving you time and avoiding delays.

Importing & Supply Chain

If your business involves imported ingredients or packaging, you must follow UAE customs rules. You’ll need a food import license and proper documentation for clearance. Supplier contracts should be drafted and follow UAE commercial laws.

Once your supply chain is set, consider partnering with platforms like Talabat, Zomato, or Deliveroo for delivery logistics. You can also use local distribution networks to reach supermarkets, events, or hotels.

Branding & Launch Strategy

Your brand name, logo, and message are the first impression customers get. Choose a unique name and protect it through trademark registration. Build your online presence using a website, Google Maps listing, and social media platforms.

To boost visibility, register your business with top food platforms in the UAE. Create promotions, engage with influencers, and join local food festivals to gain recognition.

If you need help with digital marketing or brand setup, Lukadah’s experts are ready to support your launch strategy from day one.

How Lukadah Can Help

At Lukadah, we understand how complex and competitive the UAE F&B market can be. That’s why we offer end-to-end support for entrepreneurs ready to leap. From business setup and licensing to VAT registration, accounting, and visa services, our team is here to make your journey easier.

Whether you’re starting a restaurant, cloud kitchen, or food truck, we ensure that every legal, financial, and operational step is handled professionally. We customize solutions based on your vision, budget, and goals, so you can focus on what matters most: growing your food business.

Ready to turn your food dream into a reality? Contact Lukadah today for a free consultation!

FAQ

1. How much does it cost to open a restaurant in Dubai?

Costs vary based on location, license type, and size. On average, setting up a small restaurant can range from AED 100,000 to AED 300,000.

2. Do I need a local sponsor?

Not always. Many F&B activities now allow 100% foreign ownership, especially in free zones. Lukadah can help you choose the right structure.

3. What licenses are needed to sell food online?

You’ll need a trade license, food safety approval, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC). If selling through apps, extra registration may be required.