Dubai has witnessed a significant surge in its dining-out trend, with residents now visiting restaurants nearly three times a week, marking a 61 percent increase from the previous year when the frequency was just 1.8 times a week. This insight comes from the second edition of the Dubai Gastronomy Industry Report, unveiled by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), which also places the emirate as the second highest globally in restaurant density.
The comprehensive report offers an in-depth look at the gastronomy sector in Dubai, providing valuable statistics and identifying trends that not only acknowledge the industry's progress but also pinpoint areas for potential growth in the forthcoming year.
An additional finding from the report is the notable rise in international visitors' satisfaction with Dubai's dining value for money, climbing from 54 percent in 2022 to 66 percent in 2023. Top dining hotspots include Dubai Marina, Oud Metha, and Downtown Dubai, further solidifying the city's position as a leading dining destination.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), praised the dedication and passion of those involved in Dubai's dining scene. He emphasized the vast opportunities for innovation within the gastronomy sector as Dubai enhances its stature as a premier global culinary destination. Al Khaja highlighted the emirate's diverse culinary offerings, attributed to the various cultures of the over 200 nationalities residing in the city, as a key factor in its gastronomic success.
Dubai boasts over 13,000 restaurants and cafés, offering a wide range of cuisines that have attracted the admiration of 69 percent of UAE residents, who consider Dubai the top gastronomy hub worldwide. The report also celebrates the achievement of three Dubai restaurants in receiving Michelin Green stars, showcasing the city's commitment to sustainability and its alignment with the UAE Net Zero 2050 initiative, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050.
The city's culinary excellence is an integral part of Dubai's broader economic strategy, as outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda 2033 (D33), which aims to double the size of the economy over the next decade.
Highlighting the vibrant and evolving nature of Dubai's culinary scene, the upcoming 11th annual Dubai Food Festival (DFF), scheduled from 19 April to 12 May 2024, promises to be a celebration of local, Emirati, and international cuisines. The festival will showcase Dubai's ability to adapt to global culinary trends, offering a platform for locally originated concepts and international flavors.
