Food and beverages wholesale is one of the largest trading categories in the UAE economy. The UAE food service market is valued at USD 16.58 billion in 2024 and projected to reach USD 50.21 billion by 2033 at 12.20% CAGR, underpinned by population growth, tourism, and the country’s position as the regional food re-export hub.

The UAE imports food worth tens of billions of dirhams annually, with India, Brazil, USA, Australia, and Europe as primary sources. Dubai handles a substantial portion of these imports through Jebel Ali Port and re-exports significant volumes to GCC, African, and Asian markets. Margins on wholesale food trading typically run 5 to 15%, with specialty and premium categories commanding higher returns.Â

This parent activity (4630) covers the full scope of food and beverage wholesale. Sub-codes (4630.01 through 4630.13) carve out specific product specialisations.

4630 - Wholesale Of Food And Beverages

Under this activity, you are in the business of operating a licensed wholesale trading business in food and beverages, including a comprehensive range of food products, beverages, and consumables for the UAE and regional re-export markets.

Services are delivered under the relevant regulatory oversight with appropriate facilities, systems, and qualified personnel.Â

What Does the Food & Beverages Wholesale Trading License Cover?

• Wholesale of food and beverages: bulk wholesale trading to retailers, distributors, and food service clients.

• Direct import operations: sourcing from international suppliers with customs clearance and trade documentation.

• Re-export to regional markets: supplying GCC, African, and Asian buyers from Dubai-based operations.

• B2B supply to UAE buyers: serving hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, manufacturers, and processors.

• Storage and distribution: warehouse operations and onward distribution to wholesale and B2B clients.

Who Is This For?

• Importers and wholesalers serving UAE food manufacturers, hospitality clients, and distributors.

• Re-export specialists supplying GCC, African, and Asian markets from Dubai.

• Established traders expanding their product portfolio into food and beverages.

• International suppliers entering the UAE market through their own trading entity.

Activity Scope

This license covers wholesale trading of food and beverages. Retail sale and processed product trading have different codes.

In short: if you wholesale food and beverages to B2B buyers, you are in. For retail sales to consumers, you need a different license category.

Licensing & Compliance

Standard free zone licensing applies. Imported food products must meet Dubai Municipality Food Safety Department standards and obtain relevant Food Code certifications before sale into the UAE market. Re-export operations typically have lighter documentation requirements.

Cost & Investment

Setup costs at Dubai South Business Hub start from approximately AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 per year for license and warehouse package. Inventory investment is a significant additional capital commitment depending on product volume. Use the cost calculator for tailored pricing.

Setup Steps

1. Verify name with company name check.

2. Select Food & Beverages Wholesale Trading (4630) from the business activities directory.

3. Choose office and warehouse package matching trading volume.

4. Submit passport copies, MOA, and lease.

5. Receive license within 5 to 10 working days.

6. Process visas for staff.

Why Dubai for Food & Beverages Wholesale Trading?

Dubai’s position as the regional food trading hub, Jebel Ali Port infrastructure, and the UAE’s status as a major food re-export gateway create exceptional conditions for wholesale traders. Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership, zero customs duty on re-exports to GCC and Africa, and tax efficiency on trading income.

Related Activities

• Beverages Wholesale Trading Trading License

• Pet Food Wholesale Trading Trading License

• Fruit & Vegetables Wholesale Trading Trading License