Dubai is becoming a global hub for food business, with its restaurants now exporting to international markets, as discussed by industry experts at the Arabian Travel Mart. Hoor Al Khaja, from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, highlighted the shift where Dubai’s own brands are going international, such as Kinoya opening in Harrods and The Maine expanding to the UK. The city’s popularity in the global food scene is attributed to the government’s efforts in promoting Dubai as a top destination for gastronomy, especially with the recognition from big names like Michelin.
With over 200 nationalities residing in Dubai, the city has a diverse culinary scene offering authentic cuisines from around the world. Hoor emphasized that Dubai caters to all types of dining experiences, from Michelin-star restaurants to food vendors and mid-market eateries. She also noted that the availability of authentic ingredients and spices further enhances the authenticity of the dishes served in Dubai, making it a unique culinary destination.
The city’s focus on sustainable tourism has also contributed to its increasing popularity among international visitors. Dubai welcomed 5.18 million international overnight tourists in the first quarter of the year, showing an 11% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism has implemented various campaigns promoting sustainable practices in the hospitality sector, such as the Sustainable Tourism Strategy and the Dubai Can initiative, which aims to reduce the carbon footprint of hotels.
Tourists today are more tech-savvy and research destinations thoroughly before traveling. Hoor highlighted the importance of having a strong online presence and being active on various tech channels to attract visitors from different markets. Additionally, initiatives like the installation of water coolers across the city and the Dubai Reef project have added to Dubai’s appeal as a sustainable and environmentally conscious destination. Overall, Dubai’s efforts in promoting its diverse culinary scene, sustainability initiatives, and tech-savvy approach are helping the city solidify its position as a global leader in the food and tourism industry.
