The food processing industry in the UAE has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, with a number of top food manufacturing companies in the UAE leading the way. These companies play a crucial role in meeting the food demands of both residents and tourists in the UAE.
From dairy products to packaged snacks, these companies produce a wide range of food items that are consumed on a daily basis.
Let’s explore the top food manufacturing companies in the UAE and learn more about their contributions to the ever-growing food market.
Food Industry in Dubai
The food industry in the UAE, especially in Dubai has experienced significant growth and diversification in recent years. Dubai’s strategic location, booming tourism sector, and its status as a global business hub have contributed to the expansion of its food industry.
The food processing industry alone contributed AED 12 billion to Dubai’s economy in 2022, with a projected annual growth rate of 5%. The UAE government also actively promotes food security by encouraging local production and reducing reliance on imports.
Variety on the Menu
Food companies in Dubai or UAE produces a wide range of products, including:
1. Dairy
Major players like Emirates Food Industries (EFI) manufacture dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt.
2. Bakery
Bread, pastries, and other baked goods cater to the local and regional markets.
3. Beverages
From bottled water to juices and soft drinks, Dubai manufactures a wide variety of beverages.
4. Snacks
The industry produces a large selection of snacks, from potato chips to nuts and dried fruits.
5. Convenience Foods
Ready-made meals and frozen food cater to busy lifestyles.
Top Food Manufacturing Companies in the UAE
Here is the list of the top 12 food companies in Dubai and across the UAE:
1. Emirates Food Industries (EFI)
Emirates Food Industries, also known as EFI, is a large food and beverage company headquartered in Dubai. Established in 1999, EFI is a large conglomerate with a diverse food and beverage portfolio. They own several well-known brands in the UAE, including:
National Food Industries: A leading manufacturer of snack foods in the Middle East
Al Rawabi Dairy Company: The UAE’s largest dairy company
National Foods Company: A producer of a variety of food products, including flour, rice, and pasta
Al Ain Farms: A pioneer in the UAE’s dairy industry
EFI is a major player in the UAE’s food and beverage sector, with a strong presence across various categories. The company’s vertically integrated operations allow it to control the entire supply chain to esnure quality and efficiency.
Specialization: Dairy, snack foods, flour, rice, pasta, and other food products
2. Al Islami Foods
Al Islami Foods is a Dubai-based company founded in 1981. It’s one of the leading processors and distributors of halal meat, poultry, and frozen food products in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
They are one of the leading processors of meat in the UAE and a trusted household brand known for high-quality and innovative products. Their commitment to halal production and hygiene standards has earned them a loyal customer base. The company has a well-developed distribution network that reaches consumers across the UAE and beyond.
Specialization: Halal meat, poultry, and frozen food products
3. Delta Food Industries
Founded in 2012, Delta Food Industries is a Sharjah-based company that manufactures a wide range of food products.
Delta Food Industries has grown rapidly in a short period and established itself as a major player in the UAE’s food manufacturing sector. Their dedication to quality and innovation has helped them build a strong brand reputation.
Specialization: Dry grocery products like pasta, rice, flour, pulses, spices, nuts, and snacks like cookies and chips. They also produce dairy products, including milk, cream, and cheese.
4. Global Food Industries
Global Food Industries is a leading manufacturer of frozen food products in the UAE. It was founded in 1992 and headquartered in Sharjah, the company offers a wide variety of frozen seafood, meat, poultry, and vegetable products.
It is a major supplier of frozen food products to supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels in the UAE and the wider region. The company is known for its high-quality products and its commitment to food safety.
Specialization: Frozen seafood, meat, poultry, and vegetable products
5. National Food Products Company (NFPC)
NFPC is a well-established food manufacturing company in the UAE. Since its inception in 1971, NFPC has been a key player in the food industry, offering a wide range of products across various categories.
NFPC places a strong emphasis on research and development to create innovative and nutritious food options for consumers. With a focus on sustainability and customer satisfaction, NFPC has earned a reputation as a leading food manufacturer in the UAE and beyond.
Specialization: dairy products, juices, snacks, and culinary products.
6. Dubai Refreshment Company (DRC)
DRC is a leading manufacturer and distributor of food, water, and beverage products in Dubai. They have a long-standing reputation for excellence and produce popular brands like:
- Arqa: Bottled drinking water
- Oasis: Carbonated beverages
- Barbican: Malt beverages
- Yoohoo: Chocolate milk
Why is it among the top? DRC is a household name in Dubai, offering a range of essential and popular food and beverage products. They focus on quality, safety, and cater to diverse consumer tastes.
Specialization: Food, water, and beverage products (bottled water, carbonated beverages, malt beverages, chocolate milk, etc.)
7. United Food Industries (UFI)
UFI is a major player in the UAE’s food industry, headquartered in Abu Dhabi. They manufacture and distribute a broad range of food products under well-recognized brands like Aseel, Safi, Nawar, Mumtaz, Della Terra, and Super Sun.
UFI offers a diverse product portfolio, catering to various consumer needs and taste buds. Their established brands hold a strong reputation in the market, ensuring consistent quality and customer satisfaction.
Specialization: Diverse range of food products (snacks, cooking oils, condiments, juices, etc.) under established brands.
8. Agthia
Agthia is one of the leading food and beverage companies in the UAE, specializing in the production of a wide range of products including water, flour, animal feed, and packaged food. It offers a comprehensive range of high-quality food and beverage products across various categories to consumers in the UAE, GCC region, Turkey, and the wider Middle East.
Specialization: Al Ain water, Yoplait yogurt, Al Foah dates, Al Faysal bakery & sweets, Atyab (frozen vegetables), and Al Ain frozen vegetables.
9. Hunter Foods
Hunter Foods is a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality sausages, cold cuts, and other processed meat products.
Hunter Foods is known for its innovative and flavourful products, catering to a wide range of consumer preferences. They prioritize high-quality ingredients and adhere to strict food safety standards.
Specialization: Processed meat products (sausages, cold cuts, luncheon meats)
10. Al Rawabi Dairy Company
Al Rawabi Dairy Company is one of the largest dairy producers in the UAE. It is renowned for its high-quality dairy products and commitment to animal welfare and sustainability.
Al Rawabi operates modern dairy farms and production facilities equipped with advanced technology to ensure the freshness and safety of their products. Their product range includes fresh milk, yogurt, cheese, and other dairy products, all made from locally sourced ingredients.
Specialization: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese, etc.)
11. Majan Food Industries LLC
Majan Food Industries is a leading manufacturer and distributor of food products based in Ajman. They offer a broad range of items under their own brands and private label products.
Why is it among the top? Majan Food Industries caters to a diverse consumer base with its extensive product portfolio, including cooking oils, condiments, spices, bakery products, and beverages. Their ability to adapt to market trends and offer competitive pricing contributes to their success.
Specialization: Diverse range of food products (cooking oils, condiments, spices, bakery products, beverages)
12. Bayara
Bayara is a leading manufacturer and distributor of food products with a focus on Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. They offer a wide range of products under their own brand “Bayara” and also produce private label goods.
It is renowned for its high-quality and flavourful Middle Eastern and international cuisine products. Their product portfolio includes a variety of items like tomato paste, jams, canned vegetables, pulses, legumes, nuts, and spices.
Specialization: Middle Eastern and international cuisine products (tomato paste, jams, canned vegetables, pulses, legumes, nuts, spices)
Opportunities for Entrepreneurs in the Food Industry in the UAE
- The UAE’s population is a beautiful mix of cultures and nationalities. This creates a demand for a wide variety of cuisines, from niche international flavours to healthy and organic options.
- People are becoming more health-conscious, and the UAE is no exception. This presents opportunities for entrepreneurs to cater to dietary needs with organic, gluten-free, or vegan options.
- People are increasingly ordering food online. Cloud kitchens with low overhead costs and delivery apps can cater to this demand efficiently.
- The food industry is broader than just restaurants. There’s a demand for services like catering companies for events and corporate functions, or meal preparation companies.
- The food industry thrives on creativity. If you have a unique concept, recipe, or food product, there’s a market for it in the UAE.
- Food trucks are a popular and affordable way to serve up delicious food. Find a unique concept and set up shop at popular locations.
What is the Food Safety Law in the UAE?
The main legislation governing food safety in the UAE is the Federal Law No. 10 of 2015 on Food Safety. This law outlines various regulations and standards to ensure the safety and quality of food throughout the entire supply chain.
Here are some key aspects of this law:
- The law emphasizes ensuring the safety and edibility of food throughout all stages, from production to consumption.
- No food can be imported for the first time into the UAE without approval from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (formerly Ministry of Environment and Water).
- All food businesses operating within the UAE, at any stage of the food chain (production, processing, distribution, etc.), require a license or registration from the relevant authorities.
- The law emphasizes the importance of being able to trace food items throughout the supply chain.
- The law outlines strict penalties for violations, including fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.
Shuraa Sets the Table for Your UAE Business
The top food manufacturing companies in the UAE have set a high standard for quality and innovation in the industry. For entrepreneurs looking to enter the market, there are plenty of opportunities for success and growth.
If you’re interested in producing traditional Emirati delicacies or introducing new international flavours to the market, the UAE offers a supportive environment for food manufacturing businesses.
To ensure a smooth and successful business setup process, it is highly recommended to seek assistance from professionals like Shuraa Business Setup. Our business setup experts in Dubai can help you with the complexities of setting up a food manufacturing company in the UAE including company registration, licensing, approvals, PRO services, office space, visa assistance and beyond.
So, contact us today for a free consultation at +971 44081900 or WhatsApp at +971 507775554 or drop an email at [email protected].
