Dubai's Food Demand Hits Record High
Demand for Healthy Food Rises in Dubai: Over 1 Million Tons of Vegetables Consumed Last Year
The food industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is rapidly evolving, with a growing demand for healthy eating. According to data released by the Dubai Chambers, over 1 million tons of vegetables, 536,000 tons of meat, and 514,000 tons of fruit were consumed in the country last year. These numbers not only highlight the high demand for fresh produce but also show that the population is increasingly choosing healthier food options.
Fresh Food Leads the Market
Compared to packaged foods, the sale of fresh products is significantly higher in the UAE. Last year, 293,000 tons of legumes, 242,000 tons of fish and seafood, and 163 tons of sugar and sweeteners were also sold. These statistics clearly indicate that consumers are increasingly focusing on quality, fresh ingredients.
A member of the Dubai Chambers' research and data analysis team emphasized that Dubai is a unique culinary hub where you can find exotic foods from around the world. "Whether you're looking for beluga caviar, Maine lobster, or Japanese Kobe beef, Dubai has it all. The food selection is incredibly rich, and much of it is consumed in the retail market."
Rapid Growth of the Food Industry
The UAE's food industry is currently heading towards a $1.5 billion market, with immense growth potential. Online food ordering is also skyrocketing. "The impact of Covid-19 caused e-commerce to grow rapidly, and this trend remains strong. Dubai's logistics are also unique: if you're sitting on your yacht in the Dubai Marina area, even a Carrefour boat can serve you. Here, the imagination sets the limits."
Online food delivery services, such as Talabat, Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Careem, initially showed a growth rate of 13.3%, currently expanding by around 7%. Although a few major players dominate the market, competition is intensifying, and services are becoming more diversified.
Diverse Restaurant Scene
Dubai has an impressive culinary scene. In 2023, more than 9,400 restaurants operated in the city, representing over a 4% increase in certain categories within a year. Asian restaurants lead with over 3,700 outlets, followed by 2,300 Middle Eastern and more than 800 North American restaurants.
"Compared to the city's size, the diversity of dining options is incredible, and competition is fierce. Nonetheless, new places continue to open as Dubai serves as a showcase for brands. The food industry and food technology are becoming increasingly important," explained a representative.
Impact of Tourism
Tourism also contributes to the growth of the food industry. In 2023, Dubai welcomed 18.7 million tourists visiting for business or leisure purposes. "Considering Dubai's population is only about 3.5 million, every local resident interacted with or served an average of six tourists last year. This demonstrates the tourism sector's pivotal role in the economy," added a spokesperson.
Summary
The UAE, and particularly Dubai, is not only a symbol of luxury and modernity but is also increasingly a pioneer on the path to healthy eating and quality food. The demand for fresh food, the popularity of online orders, and the culinary diversity all prove that the city plays a leading role in the global food industry. In the future, this trend is expected to strengthen further, and Dubai will continue to be a center for gastronomic innovations.
