Dubai emerged in 2024 as the world’s second gastronomy capital, following exaggerated destinations such as Paris and London, New York and Tokyo. Dubai also claimed top positions in the various food experiences it offers before Paris and before Singapore.
According to the third annual report on the gastronomy industry in Dubai, published by the Dubai Economic and Tourism Authority (DET), the city sector (F&B) organized an incredible growth year, which has resulted in almost 1,200 new restaurant licenses being issued to operators. With new openings that include a variety of categories and kitchens, Dubai’s unique culinary scene continues to present the rich multicultural identity of the city, aiming for eclectic tastes for both residents and visitors.
The F&B sector is a vital driver of Dubai’s economic diversification efforts.
This new restaurant growth underscores Dubai’s commitment to diversifying his culinary offers, and growth corresponds to the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to double the size of the Dubai economy by 2033 and further integrate Dubai’s position as a major global city of economy and leisure.
Gastronomy is an important component of this strategy, contributing to Dubai’s economic diversification and improving its appeal as a first class goal for food lovers and industrial investors.
“Dubai’s gastronomy sector is an integral part of the emirate’s tourism strategy and broader vision, and its ongoing growth is a testament to our visionary leadership and the objectives set out in the D33 Agenda to make Dubai the world’s best city to visit, live, work and invest in. The findings from the Dubai Gastronomy Industry Report 2024further reinforce the city’s position as a global culinary hub and emphasise the diverse nature of Dubai’s food offerings, drawn from the culture and cuisines of nearly 200 nationalities who live here,” stated Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE).
F&B sector boosts tourism revenue
Strategic partnerships and collaborations have played a key role in Dubai’s growth as a global destination. Summer Restaurant Week was an important highlight of Dubai’s summer surprises in 2024, with over 60 best restaurants in the city.
Dubais’ gastronomy scene continues to develop, and its growth is reflected through continued success in the tourism sector as well as the economic sector, with the Emirate welcoming 18.72 million international visitors in 2024 in one night. This is 9% compared to the previous year.
The impact of the F&B sector attracts visitors well beyond the dining room. It acts as a critical economic multiplier, generating tourism revenue, creating employment opportunities and strengthening local supply chains. In the first nine months of 2024, the Emirates’ total domestic production (GDP) growth rose 3.7%. This corresponds to a total of 3.4% of the total GDP of DUBAI during the reporting period.
“Looking ahead, we remain committed to further strengthening Dubai’s position as a world-class gastronomy hub. We will continue to collaborate with key stakeholders and partners, including small and medium enterprises and homegrown talent shaping the gastronomy landscape, and ensure they are supported in their endeavours and aligned with our initiatives to showcase and develop Dubai’s unique culinary scene,” added Al Khaja.
Social media key to promoting Dubai’s culinary offerings
The report also revealed that digital and social media are powerful tools for promoting Dubas restaurants and treating food lovers. According to Det Data, 70% of VAE guests choose a restaurant and consult with social media before making their committed online presence essential.
With thousands of facilities, the culinary excellence of the Dubai Restaurant Sector on the global stage has not been noticed. The third edition of the Michelin Guide Dubai featured 106 restaurants in 35 kitchens in July 2024. From 2023, an increase in 16 restaurants was awarded two stars, 14 received stars, 3 received green stars, 18 called Gourmands of Bib and 66 called Michelin Exques Restaurant.