Key Highlights

• The UAE healthy snacking market is projected to grow from USD 646.5 million (2023) to USD 1,028.4 million by 2030.
• Dubai imported USD 22.1 million in dried fruits while exporting USD 11.9 million in 2023.
• Activity Code 4721.83 is required for dried fruit trading with Dubai Municipality food safety approval.

Dubai’s strategic position as a global trade hub makes it an exceptional destination for launching a dry fruit business. 

With the UAE’s healthy snacking market valued at USD 646.5 million in 2023 and projected to reach USD 1,028.4 million by 2030, entrepreneurs can tap into substantial growth opportunities while serving a health-conscious consumer base.

If you are the one looking to start your business in the dry fruit segment, continue reading this detailed article. 

Disclaimer: Remember that regulations and costs tend to change over time, so always verify current requirements with relevant UAE government authorities before making final business decisions.

Market Overview and Growth Trends

1. Market Size and Projections

The Middle East and Africa dried fruits market demonstrates robust growth potential, with projections indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% during 2024-2030. The global dry fruit market, valued at USD 11.95 billion in 2023, is expected to reach USD 27.27 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.6%.

Dubai’s position within this expanding market is particularly advantageous. The UAE freeze-dried berries segment alone is projected to grow from USD 3.61 million in 2024 to USD 6.15 million by 2031, representing a CAGR of 7.9%. 

This growth trajectory reflects broader consumer trends toward premium, nutritious food products.

2. Trade Performance and Import-Export Data

The UAE’s dried fruit trade statistics reveal significant market opportunities. In 2023, the UAE imported USD 22.1 million in dried fruits while exporting USD 11.9 million. Major import sources include India (USD 4.71 million), Turkey (USD 4.52 million), and Thailand (USD 3.01 million).

Export destinations demonstrate Dubai’s role as a regional distribution hub, with primary markets including Oman (USD 1.47 million), Yemen (USD 1.36 million), and Iraq (USD 1.28 million). The fastest-growing export markets between 2022 and 2023 were Pakistan, Iraq, and Morocco.

Understanding the Dry Fruit Market in Dubai

1. Consumer Behavior and Preferences

Dubai’s multicultural population creates diverse market segments with varying preferences and purchasing behaviors. Research indicates that 62% of Middle East and Africa consumers actively seek healthy snack options. The premiumization trend shows consumers increasingly willing to pay premium prices for high-quality, organically sourced dry fruits.

Popular varieties among Dubai consumers include traditional Middle Eastern favorites like Sokari, Madjool, and Khidri dates, alongside international varieties such as raisins, dried mangoes, apricots, and various nuts. The market shows growing demand for:

Premium organic varieties with certifications and quality guarantees
Convenient packaging formats suitable for on-the-go consumption
Innovative flavors and blends catering to diverse taste preferences
Health-focused products emphasizing nutritional benefits and natural ingredients

2. Growing Demand for Healthy Snacking Options

Dubai’s diverse population of expatriates and locals creates strong demand for nutritious alternatives to processed snacks. The fruit, nuts, and seeds segment represents the largest and fastest-growing category in the UAE’s healthy snacks market.

Dubai’s climate presents unique advantages for dry fruit businesses. Unlike fresh fruits that require refrigeration in the region’s warm conditions, dry fruits maintain quality for extended periods while providing essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that health-conscious consumers seek.

3. Strategic Position as Food Import/Re-Export Hub

Dubai serves as the primary entry point for food imports into the UAE, with over 80% of the country’s food needs met through imports. The emirate’s world-class infrastructure and strategic location facilitate efficient distribution throughout the Middle East and Africa region.

The UAE’s food and beverage imports were valued at AED 142 billion (USD 38.5 billion) in 2025, with projections to reach AED 190 billion (USD 52 billion) by 2041. This growth trajectory positions Dubai as an increasingly important hub for food trading businesses.

Competitive Landscape and Market Players

1. Local and International Competitors

The UAE dried fruit market features both established regional players and international companies expanding their Middle East operations. Key market participants include:

Regional Leaders: Bateel Dates (UAE), a premium date company with strong brand recognition and extensive retail presence

International Entrants: Companies like 3 Seasons Holding from Thailand and yourharvest from Switzerland are targeting Dubai as their Middle East entry point

Established Distributors: Pasha International Nut Company, founded in 2002, has grown from dates and figs to include comprehensive dried fruit portfolios across multiple continents

2. Market Entry Strategies of Competitors

International companies are employing various strategies to enter the Dubai market. Thailand-based 3 Seasons Holding views Dubai as a strategic hub for Middle East expansion, planning operations within two years. Similarly, Switzerland’s Yourharvest is targeting the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey for international expansion amid growing dried fruit demand.

Health and Safety Certifications

1. Federal Law No. 10 of 2015 on Food Safety

All food businesses in the UAE must comply with Federal Law No. 10 of 2015 on Food Safety. This comprehensive legislation establishes standards for maintaining food safety and quality while protecting public health and consumers. The law imposes strict penalties of up to AED 100,000 for violations.

Key requirements include:

• Registration of all food products before trading
• Obtaining licenses from competent authorities before commencing operations
• Compliance with UAE’s GSO standards for packaging and labeling
• Adherence to import documentation requirements

2. Essential Certifications and Approvals

Food businesses require multiple certifications to operate legally in Dubai:

Dubai Municipality Food Safety Approval: Mandatory for all food establishments, requiring detailed food safety plans, staff training records, and regular inspections. The approval process typically takes up to six weeks and must be renewed annually.

Essential Food Safety Training (EFST): All food handlers must complete EFST certification, covering cross contamination, cooking/processing, cleaning, chilling, and food safety management.

UAE Certificate of Conformity: Required under the Emirates Conformity Assessment System (ECAS) for certain regulated products.

Health Certificates: Import shipments must include original health certificates from appropriate government agencies in the exporting country, particularly for high-risk products.

3. Activity Code 4721.83: Dried Vegetables & Fruit Trading

The specific business activity for dry fruit trading falls under Activity Code 4721.83 – Dried Vegetables & Fruit Trading. This commercial license permits retail sale of various dried products, including figs, pineapples, peaches, and apricots.

Licensed businesses can engage in:

• Retail sale of dried fruits and vegetables
• Import and distribution of dried produce
• Re-export to regional markets.
• Online and specialty store sales

The license requires post-approval from Dubai Municipality’s Food Safety Department to ensure compliance with hygiene, handling, and storage practices.

Also Read: Top 10 Profitable Business Ideas to Start in Dubai in 2025

Step-by-Step Business Setup Process

1. Choose Business Structure and Location

Entrepreneurs must first decide between mainland and free zone setup options:

Mainland Setup: Allows unrestricted trading throughout the UAE and internationally. Requires physical office space with costs typically ranging from AED 15,000 to AED 30,000. Provides direct access to government contracts and unlimited visa quotas.

Free Zone Setup: Offers 100% foreign ownership with lower setup costs (AED 9,000 to AED 35,000) and tax exemptions. However, mainland trading requires local distributors, limiting direct market access.

For dry fruit businesses targeting UAE consumers, mainland setup provides optimal market reach despite higher initial costs.

2. Register Trade Name and Obtain Initial Approval

Select 3-4 unique business names following UAE naming conventions. Submit these to the Department of Economic Development (DED) for approval. Names must not contain offensive words or duplicate existing registrations.

Once approved, apply for initial DED approval confirming your business can operate legally under Activity Code 4721.83.

3. Secure Business Premises

Obtain suitable commercial space meeting Dubai Municipality’s hygiene and safety standards. Submit detailed layout plans to the Food Safety Department for approval. Even home-based operations require specific approvals and compliance with safety regulations.

4. Complete Documentation and Licensing

Essential documents include:

• Shareholders’ and directors’ passport copies
• National identity cards
• Recent financial statements or utility bills
• Initial approval receipts
• Lease contracts attested by RERA
• Memorandum of association
• Additional government approvals as required

5. Food Safety Department Approval

Submit comprehensive food safety plans covering:

• Food handling and storage procedures
• Staff hygiene protocols
• Cleaning and sanitation procedures
• Pest control measures
• Equipment specifications and staff training records

The Food Safety Department conducts thorough inspections before issuing certificates. All requirements must be met before commencing operations.

6. Open Corporate Bank Account

Establish business banking relationships with reputable UAE banks. Required documentation varies by institution but typically includes trade licenses, memorandum of association, and identification documents.

Financial Requirements and Investment

1. Initial Investment Components

Starting a dry fruit business in Dubai involves several cost categories:

Licensing Fees: DED commercial license, Food Safety Department approval, and other regulatory fees
Rental Costs: Commercial space varies significantly by location and size.
Staff Training: EFST certification and ongoing food safety training programs
Initial Inventory: Purchasing quality dry fruits from suppliers
Equipment and Storage: Proper storage facilities, packaging equipment, and quality control systems
Marketing and E-commerce: Website development and digital marketing platforms

While exact costs vary based on business scale and location, budgets should account for both setup and operational expenses. Industry experts suggest profit margins of 5-10% for dry fruit businesses in Dubai.

2. Ongoing Operational Costs

Regular expenses include:

• Annual license renewals and food safety certifications
• Warehouse or retail space rental
• Staff salaries and training updates
• Inventory replenishment and quality testing
• Marketing and promotional activities
• Insurance and regulatory compliance costs

Costs tend to change over time, so entrepreneurs should verify current pricing before making final decisions.

Marketing and Distribution Strategies

1. Target Market Segmentation

Dubai’s multicultural population creates distinct market segments requiring tailored approaches:

Health-conscious professionals seeking convenient, nutritious snack options during busy workdays
Expatriate communities preferring familiar products from home countries with authentic taste profiles
Premium consumers are willing to pay higher prices for organic, quality-certified varieties.
Traditional households purchasing dates and dried fruits for cultural celebrations and hospitality

2. Digital Marketing and E-commerce

Online platforms offer significant opportunities for dry fruit businesses. E-commerce sales are gaining traction as consumers appreciate convenience and product variety. Successful digital strategies include:

Social media marketing showcasing product quality, health benefits, and usage suggestions
Influencer partnerships with health and wellness advocates in Dubai’s diverse communities
Search engine optimization targeting health-focused keywords and local search terms
Mobile-optimized websites facilitating easy ordering and delivery throughout Dubai

3. Distribution Channel Development

Develop comprehensive distribution networks:

Retail partnerships with supermarkets, specialty health stores, and gourmet food retailers
B2B relationships supplying restaurants, hotels, cafes, and catering companies
Direct-to-consumer sales through physical stores, farmers markets, and pop-up locations
Export channels leveraging Dubai’s position for regional market access

Export Opportunities and Regional Markets

1. Regional Market Access

Dubai’s strategic position provides excellent access to growing regional markets. The UAE exported USD 11.9 million in dried fruits in 2023, with fastest-growing markets including Pakistan, Iraq, and Morocco. These markets represent expansion opportunities for established businesses.

Regional demand drivers include:

Growing middle-class populations with increasing disposable income across the Middle East
Cultural preferences for dates and traditional dried fruits during religious observances
Health trend adoption following global wellness movement patterns
Supply chain advantages utilizing Dubai’s logistics infrastructure for efficient distribution

2. Export Documentation and Compliance

Exporting requires additional certifications and documentation:

Certificate of origin proving UAE production or processing
Health certificates meeting importing country requirements
Halal certification where required by destination markets
Phytosanitary certificates for certain agricultural products

Risk Factors and Challenges

1. Market Competition and Saturation

The growing attractiveness of Dubai’s dry fruit market brings increasing competition from both local and international players. New entrants must differentiate through quality, pricing, or specialized products to gain market share.

Established brands like Bateel Dates hold significant market presence, requiring new businesses to develop unique value propositions and customer relationships.

2. Regulatory Compliance Complexities

Food safety regulations require ongoing attention and resources. Changes in import requirements, labeling standards, or health certifications can impact operations and costs. Businesses must maintain current knowledge of regulatory developments.

The annual renewal process for food safety certifications requires consistent compliance and documentation. Failure to meet standards results in business disruption and potential penalties.

3. Supply Chain and Quality Control

Maintaining consistent product quality across seasonal variations and multiple suppliers presents ongoing challenges. Storage conditions in Dubai’s climate require specialized facilities and monitoring systems.

International supply chain disruptions can affect inventory availability and costs. Businesses should develop relationships with multiple suppliers across different regions to mitigate risks.

4. Consumer Education and Market Development

Despite growing health awareness, consumers may lack familiarity with certain dried fruit varieties or preparation methods. Educational marketing requires additional resources but helps build brand loyalty and market expansion.

Price sensitivity varies across market segments. Premium positioning requires consistent quality and clear value communication to justify higher prices compared to mass-market alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What licenses are required for a dry fruit business in Dubai?

You need a commercial license under Activity Code 4721.83 from DED, Dubai Municipality food safety approval, and various certifications, including EFST training for staff members.

2. How much investment is required to start a dry fruit business in Dubai?

Initial investment varies significantly based on business scale and location. Mainland setup typically requires AED 150,000 to AED 300,000, while free zone options may start lower. Additional costs include inventory, staff training, and operational expenses. These figures can change, so always verify current requirements.

3. Can foreign investors own 100% of a dry fruit business in Dubai?

Yes, both mainland and free zone setups now allow 100% foreign ownership in most business categories, eliminating the need for local sponsors in many cases.

4. What are the key regulatory requirements for importing dry fruits?

Compliance with Federal Law No. 10 of 2015 on Food Safety, registration in the FIRS system, product-specific registrations, proper labeling in Arabic and English, and health certificates from the country of origin.

5. What are the most popular dried fruits in the Dubai market?

Dates (Sokari, Madjool, and Khidri varieties), raisins, dried mangoes, apricots, figs, and various nuts are particularly popular among Dubai consumers.

6. Is a mainland or free zone setup better for a dry fruit business?

Mainland setup offers unrestricted UAE market access and government contract eligibility but requires a higher initial investment. A free zone provides lower costs and tax benefits but may need local distributors for mainland sales. Choose based on your target market and growth strategy.

7. What are the main export opportunities for dry fruit businesses in Dubai?

Primary export markets include Oman, Yemen, Iraq, Iran, and Pakistan. The UAE exported USD 11.9 million in dried fruits in 2023, with the fastest-growing markets being Pakistan, Iraq, and Morocco.

8. How can I differentiate my dry fruit business in Dubai’s competitive market?

Focus on premium quality, organic certifications, unique packaging, cultural authenticity, health benefits, convenient formats, and strong customer service. Consider specializing in specific varieties or target markets.

What Next? 

Dubai’s thriving food industry, strategic location, and growing health-conscious consumer base create exceptional opportunities for dry fruit businesses. The market’s projected growth, with the healthy snacking segment expected to reach USD 1,028.4 million by 2030, demonstrates substantial potential for well-positioned enterprises.

Success requires careful navigation of regulatory requirements, strategic market positioning, and commitment to quality and food safety standards. 

Entrepreneurs who thoroughly understand Dubai’s multicultural market dynamics, invest in proper certifications, and develop strong supplier relationships can build profitable ventures serving both local consumers and regional export markets.

So what are you waiting for?

Book your Free Consultation call today with the expert of JSB Incorporation to learn more about starting your dry fruit business in Dubai.