United Arab Emirates Full Service Restaurants Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

United Arab Emirates Full Service Restaurants Market Analysis

The United Arab Emirates Full Service Restaurants Market size is estimated at 9.92 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 23.47 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 18.79% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The United Arab Emirates full service restaurant industry is experiencing robust growth driven by the country's thriving tourism sector and diverse population demographics. Dubai has emerged as a global culinary destination, with over 55% of tourists ranking it as the number one global gastronomy hub. The city's restaurant landscape is particularly concentrated, with Dubai hosting 80% of the 340 fine dining restaurant establishments operating in the United Arab Emirates. This concentration of high-end dining establishment venues reflects the sophisticated tastes of both residents and international visitors, who seek diverse culinary experiences ranging from traditional Middle Eastern cuisine to international fusion concepts.

The industry's growth is closely tied to the emirate's broader hospitality service sector, which has shown remarkable resilience and expansion. Dubai's hospitality sector achieved a milestone of approximately 150,000 rooms by the end of 2022, while maintaining impressive occupancy rates of 74% in the first half of 2022. The robust tourism sector, evidenced by Dubai receiving 14.36 million international overnight visitors in 2022, has created a sustained demand for diverse dining experiences. This influx of visitors has encouraged restaurants in United Arab Emirates to innovate their offerings and enhance their service standards to meet international expectations.

The market is witnessing significant expansion through both international brand entries and local concept development. Recent developments include the entry of Kababji Lebanese Grill in Abu Dhabi and Dine Brands International's expansion plans for Applebee's and IHOP across multiple locations in 2023. These expansions are strategically aligned with the growing consumer base, including a substantial expatriate population that reached 9.1 million in 2023, with 60% being of Asian origin. This demographic diversity has fostered a rich culinary landscape where traditional and contemporary concepts coexist and evolve.

The full service restaurant sector is also benefiting from broader retail sector growth and changing consumer preferences. Consumer spending in retail stores demonstrated strong growth, increasing by 14% in Q1 2022 compared to previous periods. This growth in retail activity has particularly benefited restaurants in United Arab Emirates located in shopping centers and retail districts, as these locations continue to serve as primary dining destinations for both residents and tourists. The industry has responded to these opportunities by introducing innovative concepts, enhanced dining experiences, and diverse cuisine options that cater to the sophisticated palates of their customer base.

United Arab Emirates Full Service Restaurants Market Trends

Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines dominate UAE full service restaurants, driven by large ex-pat populations

• The number of full service restaurants in the UAE was 3,158 outlets in 2022. The figure is expected to grow at a moderate pace, registering 6.93% during the study period. The growth is attributed to the increasing dining out frequency among local residents and tourists. Middle Eastern cuisine accounted for a major share (43.02%) of the market in 2022. This is attributed to the increased expatriate population from countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Egypt, where the cuisine is considered a staple food, and local traditional cuisines such as hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, and kebabs, are observed to be popular not only among the natives but also the international tourists visiting the country.
• Middle Eastern cuisine is followed by Asian cuisine, with a market share of 29.58%, by value, in 2022, majorly driven by the large group of Asian expats residing in the country for employment purposes. In 2022, the total expat population in the country accounted for 8.92 million, of which 60% were of Asian origin. Among Asians, as of 2022, Indians formed the largest expatriate community in the United Arab Emirates, at 36.1%, followed by Bangladeshis at 9.1%, Pakistanis at 8.8%, Filipinos at 5.9%, and Sri Lankans at 3.08%. In the United Arab Emirates, 342 restaurants were serving Japanese food in 2022, a rise of around 163.4% from the 142 restaurants that did so in 2013. Latin American cuisine is growing faster with the rising penetration of Mexican restaurants in urban locations and is expected to register the highest CAGR of 10.79% during the study period. Asado, Gaucho, and La Parrilla are upscale Argentinian steakhouses that have been in the United Arab Emirates for a while. In addition, the Mexican restaurant chains added burritos and barbacoa to their menus and launched 17 more locations across the country.

The UAE full service restaurants market grows in popularity of local and international cuisines, led by the demand for popular dishes

• The average order value for FSRs was priced at USD 36.48 in 2022. The demand for full service in the United Arab Emirates is a growing premiumization trend, and there is an increasing demand for various international cuisines by tourists. Dubai was one of the world's most popular tourist destinations in 2022, with the city welcoming 7.12 million international visitors in the first half of the year; the average hotel occupancy reached 74% in H1 2022, one of the highest in the world. It has also evolved as a popular international food destination, showing that over 55% of tourists ranked Dubai as the No. 1 global gastronomy hub. Regarding full service restaurants, Dubai is home to 80% of the 340 fine-dining restaurants operating in the United Arab Emirates. This is largely due to the demand for full service options from international visitors. ​​
• The demand for full service restaurants is expected to increase due to changes in consumer behavior and demand for local cuisines. Consumers, at present, are looking for a portion of innovative food and technology. In 2022, popular dishes in the country included Al Harees, Fattoush, Shawarma, Chicken Curry, and Balaleet, priced at USD 5.75, USD 7.6, USD 2.72, USD 16, and USD 8.1 per 300 g, respectively. The demand for innovation and customization in food menus is expected to fuel the growth of the full service market. As Latin American cuisine has become so popular, restaurants offering Mexican cuisine have increased their variety of dishes. Due to the increasing demand, several Mexican restaurants are expanding their menus to include a variety of specialty tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and nachos. Popular Mexican dishes include Falafel and Hummus, priced at USD 4.9 and 6.8, respectively, per 300 g in the country.

Segment Analysis: Cuisine

Middle Eastern Segment in UAE Full Service Restaurants Market

Middle Eastern cuisine dominates the UAE full-service restaurants market, commanding approximately 43% market share in 2024. This significant market position is attributed to the increased expatriate population from countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Egypt, where the cuisine is considered a staple food. Middle Eastern food has gained widespread popularity due to its healthy and nutritious components, including olive oil, fresh herbs, and spices, making it a preferred choice among UAE residents who are health-conscious. The segment's strong performance is further supported by numerous restaurants ranging from high-end establishments to local eateries that serve popular dishes such as hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, and kebabs, catering to both locals and international tourists visiting the country.

Latin American Segment in UAE Full Service Restaurants Market

The Latin American cuisine segment is experiencing remarkable growth in the UAE full-service restaurants market, projected to expand at approximately 20% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This growth is driven by increasing consumer interest in diverse international cuisines and the rising popularity of Brazilian and Mexican restaurants. Various vegetarian and vegan options available in Mexican cuisine appeal to the growing number of local consumers switching to plant-based diets, with around 50% of UAE consumers having turned to plant-based food. The segment's expansion is further supported by the introduction of new restaurant concepts, innovative menu offerings, and the integration of entertainment elements such as samba dancing and capoeira shows in Brazilian establishments, creating unique dining experiences for customers.

Remaining Segments in Cuisine Segmentation

The UAE full-service restaurants market features several other significant cuisine segments, including Asian, European, and North American offerings. Asian cuisine, particularly Japanese, Chinese, and Thai, maintains a strong presence due to the large expatriate Asian population and its appeal to tourists. European restaurants, especially Italian establishments, contribute significantly to the market's diversity by offering fine dining experiences and regional specialties. North American cuisine has carved out its niche in the market, particularly in urban areas, with steakhouses and American-style diners gaining popularity among both locals and tourists. These segments collectively enhance the UAE's reputation as a global culinary destination, offering diverse dining experiences across different price points and styles.

Segment Analysis: Outlet

Independent Outlets Segment in UAE Full Service Restaurants Market

Independent outlets continue to dominate the UAE's full-service restaurants market, holding approximately 62% market share in 2024. The segment's strong performance is driven by the increasing demand among visitors for unique, gourmet-style, and exclusive dining experiences. These establishments have gained popularity by offering personalized service, customized menus, and a distinctive local touch that resonates strongly with both UAE residents and tourists. Notable independent restaurants like Sonara Camp, Nusr-et, Dinner in the City, Pier 7, Bubbalicious, and 11 Woodfires have established themselves as top performers in the country's culinary landscape. The success of independent outlets is further supported by their ability to adapt quickly to changing consumer preferences and their focus on providing authentic dining experiences that showcase both local and international cuisines.

Chained Outlets Segment in UAE Full Service Restaurants Market

The chained outlets segment is demonstrating remarkable growth potential in the UAE's full-service restaurants market, with a projected growth rate of approximately 19% during 2024-2029. This impressive growth trajectory is primarily driven by the segment's adoption of innovative technologies, particularly self-service kiosks, which are helping operators improve both cost-effectiveness and service speed. The strong chained model effectively combines the potential for globalization with the rising demand for online meal ordering in international cuisine, enabling large-scale global corporate operators to expand their influence in new culinary areas, such as Arabic, Turkish, and Asian food. These establishments are particularly preferred by tourists due to their brand recognition, well-established reputation for quality, dependability, and consistency in service delivery across all locations.

Segment Analysis: Location

Standalone Segment in UAE Full Service Restaurants Market

The standalone segment continues to dominate the UAE full-service restaurants market, commanding approximately 71% market share in 2024. This significant market position is attributed to standalone restaurants' strategic placement in high-traffic areas and their ability to offer innovative and trendy menu options. Restaurant owners in this segment benefit from lower startup costs and complete operational control, allowing them to quickly adapt to changing consumer preferences. These establishments are increasingly investing in technology systems to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. The segment's success is further bolstered by the UAE's diverse and cosmopolitan population that creates strong demand for various cuisines and dining styles, particularly in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which collectively attract over 16 million visitors annually.

Lodging Segment in UAE Full Service Restaurants Market

The lodging segment is projected to experience the most rapid growth in the UAE full-service restaurants market, with an expected CAGR of approximately 22% during 2024-2029. This exceptional growth trajectory is driven by the robust tourism sector in the UAE, with Dubai alone welcoming millions of international visitors annually. The segment's expansion is supported by the country's ambitious hospitality development plans, with expectations of 25% growth in the industry by 2030 and projections to host 40 million new visitors in Dubai's hotels by 2031. Full-service restaurants within hotels and resorts are increasingly focusing on providing diverse dining experiences, offering extensive menus that cater to various tastes and dietary requirements, including both local Emirati dishes and international cuisines.

Remaining Segments in Location

The retail, travel, and leisure segments each play vital roles in shaping the UAE's full-service restaurant landscape. The retail segment, particularly in shopping malls, serves as a crucial dining destination for both locals and tourists, with restaurants continually upgrading their offerings to meet evolving consumer preferences. The travel segment, concentrated in transportation hubs like airports and major highways, caters to the growing number of travelers passing through the UAE's expanding transportation infrastructure. The leisure segment, encompassing restaurants in entertainment venues and tourist attractions, contributes to the UAE's reputation as a premier dining destination, particularly during food festivals and cultural events that showcase the country's diverse culinary landscape.

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