Food & Agriculture in the UAE

Traditionally, agriculture has played a rather minor role in the UAE. Due to limited water resources and extreme climatic conditions, agricultural activities were long confined to small oasis regions.

Today, however, the government aims to increase local food production and reduce dependency on imports. Investments in modern technologies such as vertical farming, hydroponics, and the expansion of greenhouse projects are becoming increasingly important. Despite these efforts, the agricultural sector currently contributes only around 1 percent to the UAE’s gross domestic product (GDP).

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the most import-dependent countries in the world when it comes to food. Around 80 to 90 percent of all food products are imported. This is due to the hot, dry climate, limited water resources, and scarce arable land.

This high level of import dependence makes the market particularly open to high-quality food products and modern processing solutions from abroad. International suppliers — especially from Germany — find a growing sales market here, both in retail and in the HoReCa sector (hotel, restaurant, catering).

German products enjoy an excellent reputation for quality, food safety, and traceability. Technologies and equipment for processing, refrigeration, and packaging are also in high demand.

Food distribution in the United Arab Emirates is well-structured and heavily import-oriented. Most products enter the country through the ports of Dubai (Jebel Ali) and Abu Dhabi (Khalifa Port), and are then distributed to the market via wholesalers, specialized distributors, and logistics service providers.

Distribution typically takes place through three main channels:

Retail – including major supermarket chains such as Carrefour, Lulu, Spinneys, and Choithrams.

HoReCa sector – hotels, restaurants, and catering services with strong demand for premium imported products.

Online and e-commerce – a rapidly growing channel, particularly for packaged foods and specialty items.

International suppliers usually work with local importers or exclusive distribution partners who handle logistics, customs clearance, warehousing, and product listing. These partners are typically well-connected and hold the necessary licenses and contacts.

Important: Market access requires approval processes with authorities such as the Dubai Municipality or the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment — including requirements for labeling, certifications, or halal verification.

Through our Competence Center for Food and Agriculture, we support German companies in finding suitable business partners in the market.

Feel free to contact us for tailored advice and assistance.

The UAE has developed various strategies to promote sustainable food production.

Through initiatives such as the National Food Security Strategy 2051, the country aims to rank first in the Global Food Security Index. Investments focus particularly on innovative technologies such as agri-tech, indoor farming, automated irrigation systems, and research into salt-tolerant crops.

In addition, the government supports start-ups and international partnerships to boost local production and establish climate-friendly farming practices.

Company Registration and Trade License:
Importing companies must hold a valid trade license issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the respective emirate.
Registration with the relevant Chamber of Commerce is also required.

Registration with Customs Authorities:
Registration with the Ports and Customs Authority is mandatory.
For imports via Dubai, additional registration with Dubai Trade is required.

Product Registration and Approvals:
Before import, food products must be registered with the relevant authorities — for example, with Dubai Municipality via the Food Import and Re-export System (FIRS).

New products are typically subject to laboratory testing. Future shipments may undergo random inspections.

Required Documents for Import:

• Original health certificate issued by a government health authority in the country of origin
• Packing list detailing weight, packaging, and HS code
• Veterinary and halal certificates for meat and poultry products
• Commercial invoice and certificate of origin, attested by the chamber of commerce in the country of origin
• Bill of lading or airway bill

Labeling Requirements:
All food products must carry bilingual labels in Arabic and English, including information such as product name, ingredients, country of origin, production and expiry dates, and storage conditions.

Digital Customs Processing:
The UAE increasingly relies on digital technologies in the import process. Electronic customs declarations and automated document management are now standard practice.

Note: Compliance with these requirements is essential for a smooth import process. It is strongly recommended to familiarize yourself with the latest regulations in advance and seek professional assistance if needed.

All food products placed on the market in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) must comply with strict labeling regulations, which are monitored by authorities such as the Dubai Municipality, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), and the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA).

Mandatory label information (in Arabic and English):

• Product name
• List of ingredients (including allergens)
• Net content (weight or volume)
• Production and expiry dates
• Name and address of the manufacturer
• Country of origin
• Storage conditions
• Nutritional information (for packaged foods)
• Halal certification (if applicable)

Important notes:

• All labels must be clear, legible, and non-removable.
• Arabic is mandatory; English may be added in addition.
• Health claims are only allowed with prior approval from the authorities.
• Meat and poultry products require additional information related to halal standards.
• Packaged products must include a barcode that matches the product entry in the FIRS (Food Import and Re-export System).

Incorrectly labeled products may be rejected at the border or removed from the market after import.

German companies benefit particularly from:

• the excellent reputation of German quality and food safety
• high willingness to pay for premium products in both retail and HoReCa sectors
• growing demand for solutions in agri-tech, irrigation, greenhouse construction, and refrigeration technology
• an innovation-friendly environment with specialized free zones and access to modern infrastructure

Market entry typically takes place through experienced importers and distribution partners. German companies that offer reliable delivery and aim for long-term cooperation are especially valued by local partners.

Our Competence Center for Food and Agriculture is happy to support you in navigating the market and connecting with potential business partners.

Feel free to contact us for more information.