If you’ve ever thought about starting an organic farm or opening an organic food business in Dubai, you’re not alone. The UAE’s organic food market was valued at over $37 million in 2021 and continues to grow, driven by rising health awareness, government backing, and a steady influx of consumers looking for cleaner, more traceable food.
The country already has more than 40 certified organic farms and a formal pathway for registering and selling organic goods. But making it work here takes planning. Between the climate, the paperwork, and the compliance checks, it’s not something you can jump into without preparation.
This guide lays out what you need to know—how to get certified, where to set up shop, which crops to grow, and what licenses to apply for.
What is an organic food business?
An organic food business is any operation that sells products grown or made without synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilisers, genetically modified organisms or artificial additives. That could mean running a farm, opening a grocery store, managing a delivery service or processing items like snacks, dairy or juice—so long as the raw ingredients and handling methods meet certified organic standards.
In Dubai, that means following strict rules set by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and getting your products approved through official certification schemes. Whether you’re importing, growing locally or doing a bit of both, the label ‘organic’ has to be certified.
Organic food business in Dubai – An overview
Dubai’s organic food market has grown steadily in recent years. In 2021, the UAE’s market for organic packaged food and beverages hit $32.6 million—up nearly 6% from the year before. It’s on track to reach close to $39 million by 2025, with demand growing across retail and online channels.
The shift is being fuelled by a few key factors. More people are prioritising what goes into their food and cutting back on artificial ingredients. The government has also rolled out campaigns promoting sustainable agriculture and healthy living, helping push organic products into the mainstream.
The market is broadening. Organic dairy still takes up a big share, but other categories like fruit and veg, snacks, drinks and meat alternatives are gaining ground.
For businesses entering the space, the timing is good. Consumers are buying more, the infrastructure is improving, and the regulatory framework gives certified brands a clear edge.
How to start an organic food business in Dubai: Step-by-step
Start with market research
Visit organic markets, talk to customers, speak with suppliers and look at pricing. Try to get a sense of what’s missing or where you can offer something better. Organic buyers in Dubai tend to know what they want, so it’s important to understand their habits and expectations.
Choose your business model
The term ‘organic food business’ covers a wide range. You might open a store, sell online, run a delivery service or import and distribute certified goods. Each has its own licensing and logistics. Get clear on your model early—it shapes every decision that follows.
Register your business and pick the right activities
Set up your trade license through the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). You’ll need to choose your business activities carefully. If you’re selling packaged goods, that’s different from running a café or importing fresh produce.
Apply for your organic certification
You can’t sell anything as organic until it’s certified. The Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA), now under MoIAT, handles this under the Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme (ECAS). If you’re importing, your supplier needs valid certification. If you’re producing locally, your facility will be inspected and tested.
Secure your food licenses and permits
Once your trade license is in place, apply for a food license from Dubai Municipality. This involves submitting your layout plan, product list and hygiene protocols. You might also need permits for importing, transporting or preparing food.
Set up your supply chain
If you’re importing, register your products with the ZAD platform and make sure they meet UAE labelling and safety rules. If you’re sourcing locally, work with certified farms. Keep clear records—certificates, batch numbers, invoices. You’ll need them for audits.
Choose your location carefully
Think about your customers and how they’ll reach you. A residential area might suit a community-focused shop, while a warehouse near the port could work for a distributor. Make sure your site is approved for food use.
Build your inventory and manage quality control
Every product you stock must meet UAE standards for organic goods. Track expiry dates, monitor storage and rotate stock. For fresh items, watch transport times and shelf life.
Get your branding, packaging and labelling right
Everything labelled ‘organic’ must include the required information in Arabic and English. That includes origin of ingredients, percentage of organic content and certifying body. Avoid vague claims—inspectors take labelling seriously.
Promote your business
Once you’re licensed and stocked, start building awareness. Wellness events, online communities and collaborations with health influencers are good starting points. Customers value honesty, traceability and personal service.
Stay compliant
Regular inspections will follow. Make sure your staff are trained, your hygiene standards are in order, and your certification is current. Keep records updated.
Benefits of starting an organic food business in Dubai
Strong local demand
People in Dubai are willing to pay for quality, especially when it comes to food. Expats, families and health-conscious shoppers all show steady interest in clean, traceable goods.
Simple, clear licensing structure
Once you’ve chosen the right activity and business model, the authorities make it relatively easy to register your company, get certified and start trading. There’s also plenty of support available.
Access to international suppliers and logistics
Dubai’s role as a trade hub works in your favour. You can import stock from Europe, Australia or elsewhere with a smooth, reliable supply chain. There’s strong infrastructure for storage, distribution and delivery.
Plenty of space to build a brand
This is still a young market. While competition is growing, there’s room for businesses focused on transparency, education and consistent quality—whether that’s in retail, supply or e-commerce.
Support for local production
If you’re producing or farming organic goods in the UAE, the government offers grants, training and access to land. You’ll also benefit from growing interest in food security and sustainability.
Start your organic food business in Dubai with Creative Zone
Setting up an organic food business in Dubai involves a few moving parts—licenses, certifications, product registration and making sure every box is ticked. That’s where Creative Zone can help.
We’ve been supporting entrepreneurs and growing companies in the UAE since 2010. Whether you’re launching a homegrown organic brand, importing certified products, or opening a store or online platform, we can guide you through every step.
Our team handles everything from business setup in Dubai to food product registration, ESMA certification, trade license applications, visa support and more. You’ll get clear advice, fast turnaround times and one point of contact throughout.
If you’re ready to get started, speak to Creative Zone today. We’ll help you build your business on solid ground so you can focus on growing it.
