Dubai has emerged as the world’s second leading gastronomy capital in 2024, following Paris and surpassing established destinations like London, New York, and Tokyo. Dubai also claimed the top spot for the variety of dining experiences it offers, ahead of both Paris and Singapore.
According to the third annual Dubai Gastronomy Industry Report, published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the city’s food and beverage (F&B) sector had a remarkable year of growth, with almost 1,200 new restaurant licences issued to operators. With new openings spanning various categories and cuisines, Dubai’s unique culinary scene continues to showcase the city’s rich multicultural identity, catering to the eclectic tastes of both residents and visitors.
F&B sector plays key role in Dubai’s economic diversification
This surge in new restaurants underscores Dubai’s commitment to diversifying its culinary offerings, and the growth aligns with the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to double the size of Dubai’s economy by 2033 and to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure.
Gastronomy is a key component of this strategy, contributing to Dubai’s economic diversification and enhancing its appeal as a premier destination for food enthusiasts and industry 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 crucial role in Dubai’s growth as a global dining destination. The Summer Restaurant Week was a key highlight of Dubai Summer Surprises in 2024, with more than 60 of the city’s finest dining establishments participating.
Dubai’s gastronomy scene continues to evolve, and its growth is mirrored by continued success across the tourism and economic sectors, with the emirate welcoming 18.72 million international overnight visitors in 2024, an increase of 9 percent compared to the previous year.
The F&B sector’s impact extends far beyond dining tables and attracting visitors. It serves as a crucial economic multiplier, generating tourism revenue, creating employment opportunities and strengthening local supply chains. Supporting the growth of gross domestic product (GDP) in the emirate, the accommodation and food service activities sector increased by 3.7 percent in the first nine months of 2024, accounting for a total 3.4 percent share of Dubai’s overall GDP during the 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.
Read: UAE hotel revenues grow to $12.25 billion in 2024 as occupancy rate hits 78 percent
Social media key to promoting Dubai’s culinary offerings
The report also revealed that digital and social media have been powerful tools in promoting Dubai’s restaurants and engaging with food enthusiasts. According to DET data, 70 percent of UAE diners consult social media before choosing a restaurant, making an engaging online presence essential.
With thousands of establishments, the culinary excellence of Dubai’s restaurant sector has not gone unnoticed on the global stage. The third edition of the MICHELIN Guide Dubai was unveiled in July 2024, featuring 106 restaurants across 35 cuisines, an increase of 16 restaurants from 2023. Four restaurants were awarded two stars, 14 were given one star, three were awarded a Green Star, 18 were named Bib Gourmands, and 66 were MICHELIN-selected restaurants.
