News
Dubai Ranks 2nd Globally for Gastronomy in 2024: 1,200 new licences in 2024
Die Geissens Real Estate L.L.C
12. April 2025
With 1,200 new restaurant licences issued in 2024, Dubai strengthens its position as a global culinary hub—unlocking fresh real estate and business potential across hospitality, retail, and mixed-use developments.
Dubai's Culinary Rise: Economic and Cultural Drivers
- Dubai issued 1,200 new restaurant licences in 2024, reflecting its expanding culinary landscape.
- The emirate ranked 2nd globally—surpassing New York and Tokyo—as a food and restaurant capital.
- 70% of diners rely on social media for restaurant choices, underlining digital engagement's role in F&B success.
Strategic Implications for Real Estate Investors
- Retail and Hospitality Demand: Growth in gastronomy enhances tenant desirability in mixed-use developments.
- Tourism Integration: Dubai’s culinary appeal strengthens hospitality assets and short-term rental ROI.
- Urban Development: High-performing F&B corridors drive foot traffic, uplifting surrounding property values.
Consumer Trends Fueling Market Expansion
- Hygiene remains the top factor (50%) in restaurant selection—supporting premium development standards.
- Innovation, variety, and cultural diversity are key satisfaction drivers—requiring versatile, adaptable retail footprints.
- Online searches for Dubai’s F&B offerings grew by 23.5% YoY—highlighting sustained digital demand and visibility.
Synergy with Dubai’s Economic Agenda
- Gastronomy is a pillar of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position the city as a top global destination to live, work, and visit.
- Culinary diversity reflects the presence of over 200 nationalities—supporting multicultural community development and inclusive urban planning.
- Strategic placement of new restaurants can catalyze underutilized zones, transforming them into high-ROI food and retail districts.
Global Food Capital
Dubai’s ascent as a global food capital presents a lucrative opportunity for investors targeting hospitality, F&B-adjacent retail, and destination-led real estate. Stakeholders should prioritize assets near emerging culinary districts, leverage smart infrastructure, and align with consumer preferences for hygiene, experience, and innovation.
