The food industry has been on the rise in recent years in the UAE. Several companies and industrial zones dedicated to food manufacturing are responsible for the industry’s growth. Manufacturing companies in the UAE produce diverse food and beverages.
If you’re considering joining the food industry or reviewing it, this guide walks you through the industry’s landscape while providing you with the pathway on how you can start your food manufacturing business in the UAE.
Understanding the Manufacturing Sector in UAE
The manufacturing sector in the UAE is very diverse and has multiple leading players, both local and foreign. Overall, the industry is known for offering the best food security globally. This has been one of the go-to sectors for the United Arab Emirates for economic diversification. The industry features the use of technology, environment-friendly practices, and specific industrial zones. It has made the UAE a key player in food production and distribution around the globe.
Emerging Trends in UAE Food Manufacturing
The food sector in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other emirates has been dedicated to revolutionizing the manufacturing processes through integrating technology. The recent focus has been on the adoption of vertical farming and sustainable agriculture practices. Many companies have also started to invest a lot in plant-based food production while technologically advancing their food processing and packaging.
The fact is that a company cannot survive in the market without following these emerging technological and technical trends.
Top Food Manufacturing Companies in the UAE
1. Emirates Food Industries (EFI)
- Owns top brands like Al Rawabi, Al Ain Farms, and National Food Industries.
- Makes dairy, snacks, flour, rice, and pasta.
- Controls its whole supply chain for better quality.
2. Gulf Processing Industries
- Known for the “Herman” brand of food products.
- Uses its Dubai location for fast delivery.
- Focuses on efficient and wide regional supply.
3. National Food Industries
- Offers canned foods and milk under the “LUNA” brand.
- Serving UAE consumers since 1977.
- Known for lasting quality and trust.
4. Best Food Industries
- Specializes in nuts, dates, and chocolate snacks.
- Known for their “Go Nuts” portable snack line.
- Aims to grow internationally through food fairs.
5. Delta Food Industries
- Makes dry groceries like pasta, rice, and spices.
- Also produces dairy items like milk and cheese.
- Grew fast since starting in 2012 in Sharjah.
6. Global Food Industries
- Based in Sharjah, makes frozen meat, seafood, and vegetables.
- Supplies supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants.
- Focuses on food safety and high standards.
7. Al Islami Foods
- Known for halal chicken, meat, and frozen foods.
- Trusted brand with strong hygiene and safety.
- Distributes products across the UAE and beyond.
8. National Food Products Company (NFPC)
- Produces dairy, juices, snacks, and cooking items.
- Known for innovation and healthy products.
- Cares about sustainability and customer needs.
9. Dubai Refreshment Company (DRC)
- Makes drinks like Arqa water and Barbican malt.
- Distributes PepsiCo products in the UAE.
- Runs a large production facility in Dubai.
10. United Food Industries (UFI)
- Owns well-known brands like Aseel and Safi.
- Makes cooking oils, snacks, juices, and more.
- Sells in over 60 countries with strong brand trust.
11. Agthia
- Offers water, yogurt, flour, and frozen food.
- Known for brands like Al Ain and Yoplait.
- Supplies across UAE, GCC, and Turkey.
12. Hunter Foods
- Produces sausages, cold cuts, and lunch meats.
- Known for good taste and food safety.
- Offers healthy snack lines like Hunter’s Gourmet.
13. Majan Food Industries
- Makes oils, spices, condiments, and drinks.
- Based in Ajman with a wide product range.
- Adapts to trends and keeps prices competitive.
14. Bayara
- Makes Middle Eastern foods like nuts, jams, and spices.
- Known for strong flavors and good quality.
- Sells both its own brand and private label items.
Challenges and Opportunities
Supply Chain Disruptions
It is important to have counter plans if your primary supply chain gets disrupted for some reason. Effective networking in the market with other factories and service providers is important in this regard.
Standards and Certifications
You have to maintain the standard of your products set by the authorities in the United Arab Emirates. Try getting as many certifications as possible to help increase the credibility of your business while strengthening the identity of the company.
Expanding into New Markets
Expanding into new markets can be a challenge. The solution to that is to keep experimenting and have an effective marketing team. Networking helps, but creative marketing can help you lead any market.
Steps to Start a Food Manufacturing Company in the UAE
Starting a food or beverage manufacturing company in the UAE is a smart business decision. It involves acquiring an industrial license to legalize your manufacturing activities and several other steps. Here’s how you can start your food company in the UAE:
Step 1: Plan your business and select the business activities.
Step 2: Select the jurisdiction. You can set up in the mainland or a free zone.
Step 3: Get the initial approval from the respective authority and apply for the industrial license.
Step 4: Prepare the documents to ensure they’re correct and valid.
Step 5: Submit the documents and pay the required fee.
Step 6: Find a suitable space for your manufacturing activities and finalize the lease agreement.
Step 7: Import the required machinery for food and beverage manufacturing.
Step 8: Upon approval, you will receive the license. Now you can open a corporate bank account and apply for visas if required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What makes the UAE’s food manufacturing industry stand out globally?
The UAE’s food manufacturing sector stands out due to its integration of food tech, sustainable practices, and advanced processing systems. Local food manufacturers produce a wide range of food products that meet international food safety standards while catering to the diverse tastes of consumers across the UAE.
2. How important is food safety law for food businesses operating in the UAE?
Food safety law plays a crucial role in ensuring that all food items produced or sold meet quality and hygiene standards. The UAE government enforces strict regulations, such as Law No. 10 of 2015, to protect public health and strengthen trust in the food and beverage industry.
3. Is Abu Dhabi a good place to start a food and beverage manufacturing company?
Yes, Abu Dhabi offers strong infrastructure, access to industrial zones, and government support, making it ideal for launching a food and beverage company. Manufacturers in the UAE benefit from proximity to local and regional markets and a business-friendly environment.
4. What are some challenges in setting up a manufacturing business in the UAE?
Starting a manufacturing enterprise in the UAE involves navigating licensing, compliance with the food safety law, and securing industrial space. However, the UAE offers streamlined business setup in Dubai and other emirates to support entrepreneurs in the food & beverage manufacturing sector.
5. How does innovation shape the food & beverage sector in the UAE?
The UAE’s beverage and food sector is driven by innovation, with companies investing in plant-based products, sustainable packaging, and smart processing. This focus helps food manufacturers in the UAE remain competitive in both the local and international food market.
6. Which companies are considered leaders in the UAE’s manufacturing industry?
Companies like Emirates Food Industries, Al Rawabi Dairy, and Majan Food Industries are recognized as some of the leading food manufacturing businesses. These businesses are known for their high standards, innovative food items, and contribution to food security within the UAE.
7. What role does the UAE’s food sector play in economic growth?
The food & beverage industry is a major player in the UAE’s economic diversification strategy. With manufacturing businesses producing everything from frozen food products to nutritious food & beverages, the sector supports employment and boosts exports.
8. How can I ensure compliance with food safety regulations in the UAE?
To comply with the food safety law, you must follow UAE government guidelines on production, labeling, and storage. Partnering with certified food manufacturers and implementing quality control measures helps ensure your products meet regulatory expectations.
