Delivery Service Business in Dubai

Introduction: Food Delivery Service Business in Dubai

In a world where convenience is paramount, the food delivery industry is booming, and Dubai, UAE, is no exception. With the growth of the online food delivery market, there is a wealth of opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to start their own food delivery service in this bustling metropolis.

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This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of establishing a food delivery service business in Dubai, from the initial steps of business setup to the nitty-gritty details of running a successful operation. We’ll delve into the legal aspects, costs involved, marketing strategies, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to launch your very own food delivery service in one of the most vibrant cities in the world.

The Food Delivery Service Business in Dubai, UAE

The Power of Food Delivery

The food delivery Service Business in the United Arab Emirates is nothing short of a phenomenon. It has transformed the way people enjoy meals and redefined convenience. In this section, we’ll explore the impact and significance of food delivery service business in Dubai.

The Dubai Difference

Dubai’s diverse and bustling population has created a unique ecosystem for food delivery. We’ll examine the local factors that make Dubai a prime location for starting a food delivery service.

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Steps to get Food Delivery Service license in Dubai

To obtain a food delivery service license in Dubai, you’ll need to follow a series of steps that involve both legal and operational considerations. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:

Business Activity Selection:

The first step is to decide on your specific business activities related to food delivery. Ensure that your chosen activities align with those listed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai.

Choose a Company Structure:

Decide on the structure of your business. You can either set up a Mainland or Free Zone company. The choice depends on your business goals and the extent of ownership you desire.

  • Mainland Company: In a Mainland company, a foreign investor can own up to 49% of the business, and a UAE national must own the remaining 51%. This is an ideal structure if you want to operate within the UAE and don’t require full ownership.
  • Free Zone Company: This structure allows 100% ownership by a foreign investor and offers several advantages, including tax exemptions and other incentives.

Trade Name Registration:

Choose a unique and appropriate name for your food delivery service business. Ensure that the name complies with the UAE’s naming policies, including avoiding any offensive or blasphemous language and ensuring that it’s not already registered.

Initial Approval:

Seek initial approval from the UAE Government, which indicates that the government has no objections to your business establishment. However, it doesn’t grant you the right to operate the business. This approval comes from the Department of Economic Development.

Memorandum of Association (MOA) / Local Service Agent Agreement (LSA):

Draft a Memorandum of Association (MOA) for your business. This is a critical document that outlines the structure, policies, and regulations of your business. If you’re setting up a Mainland company, you may need to engage a Local Service Agent (LSA) who will be a UAE national. The agreement with the LSA should be attested by a notary public or the court.

Additional Government Approvals:

Depending on the specific nature of your food delivery business, you might need additional government approvals from relevant authorities. Ensure that you are in compliance with all regulations pertaining to the food industry, health, and safety standards.

Trade License Application:

Once you’ve completed the above steps, it’s time to apply for your food delivery service trade license. This is typically issued by Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED). It’s crucial to submit a flawless application to avoid potential delays or complications.

Visa Application and Corporate Bank Account:

After obtaining your trade license, you need to apply for visas for yourself and any employees. If you don’t have a valid UAE residency visa, this step is crucial. Additionally, open a corporate bank account for your business to manage financial transactions.

Compliance with Food Regulations:

Ensure that your food delivery service complies with food safety and health regulations. This includes proper handling and storage of food, as well as adherence to hygiene standards.

Operational Setup:

Set up your operations, which includes creating your food delivery app, partnering with restaurants, hiring delivery staff, and creating a strong brand identity.

Remember that working with a company formation specialist, such as Trade License Zone, can simplify and expedite the process. They can provide expert guidance to navigate the legal and administrative aspects of setting up a food delivery service in Dubai.

Steps to Start Your Food Delivery Business

Partnering for Success: Alfazone

The first step in your journey to launching a food delivery service business in Dubai is to partner with the experts at Freezone. We’ll explore how their guidance and services can ease the setup process and help you navigate the regulatory landscape.

Choosing the Right Name for Your Business

Selecting the perfect name for your business is a critical decision. This section guides you on naming policies in the UAE and how to choose an appropriate and distinctive name for your food delivery service.

Defining Your Business Activities

Your choice of business activities is pivotal for your food delivery trade license in Dubai. We will discuss the importance of listing all your business activities accurately to avoid any complications down the line.

Business Structure: Mainland vs. Free Zone

Dubai offers different business structures for entrepreneurs. We’ll delve into the distinctions between Mainland and Free Zone companies, helping you decide which one aligns best with your food delivery venture.

Applying for Your Food Delivery Service Trade License

The core of your food delivery service setup lies in acquiring your trade license. We will explore the application process, requirements, and how to ensure a smooth and swift approval from Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED).

Visa and Corporate Bank Account

This section covers the steps to obtain a visa for yourself and any potential employees, as well as the process of opening a corporate bank account for your food delivery service.

Read Article: How to Successfully Establish Your Business in Dubai, UAE?

The Cost of Starting Your Food Delivery Business

Estimating the Initial Investment

Setting up a food delivery service in Dubai involves specific costs. We’ll provide a breakdown of the estimated initial investment, including government fees, trade license costs, and other expenses.

A Closer Look at Trade License Costs

Trade license costs can vary based on your specific business activities. We’ll explain how to get an accurate quote for your food delivery service.

Calculate your business setup cost here.

Marketing Strategies for Your Food Delivery Service

Establishing a Strong Brand Identity

Creating a unique brand identity is crucial to stand out in the competitive food delivery market. We’ll explore the importance of consistent branding and how it enhances your visibility and recognition.

Leveraging Social Media Marketing

Social media platforms are essential for promoting your food delivery service. We’ll discuss how to use Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to reach a wider audience and share quality content and promotions.

Attracting Customers with Discounts and Promotions

In this section, we’ll delve into using promotions, coupons, discounts, and vouchers to attract new customers and reward loyal ones. We’ll provide innovative ideas for effective promotions.

Harnessing the Power of Customer Reviews

Customer reviews build credibility and trust. We’ll explain how to showcase customer feedback on social media to bolster your brand image.

Community Engagement Through Local Events

Participating in local events and food festivals can create community spirit and help grow awareness of your food delivery business. We’ll guide you on how to engage with your local community effectively.

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A Look at the Competitive Food Delivery Market in Dubai

The Landscape of Food Delivery in Dubai

This section offers insights into the competitive food delivery market in Dubai, with established giants like Zomato, Talabat, and Uber Eats.

Identifying Market Gaps for Smaller Players

Smaller, more dynamic food delivery services have a chance to thrive by targeting specific market gaps. We’ll explore the areas where you can make your mark as a smaller player.

Conclusion – Launching Your Food Delivery Service in Dubai

Your Path to Success with “Alfazone

In the concluding part of this guide, we’ll take you through the journey of launching your food delivery service in Dubai and how Alfazone, your food delivery service company, can achieve success in this burgeoning market.


This comprehensive guide provides a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs to establish their own food delivery service in Dubai, UAE. With strategic insights and actionable steps, you’ll be well-prepared to tap into the thriving food delivery market and build a successful venture in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

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