Dubai is taking proactive steps to solidify its position as a global leader in the digital economy. The Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade (DCCPFT), under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has launched a key initiative to enhance the city’s rapidly growing online food delivery sector.

This initiative includes the formation of a new, dedicated working group and the issuance of new industry guidelines, both developed in close partnership with private sector stakeholders. The goal is clear: to maintain high business standards, encourage fair competition, and attract further investment into this vital market.

A Collaborative Approach to Fair Trade

The new working group brings together essential players from both the public and private sectors. The DCCPFT developed the new guidelines through extensive consultation with delivery operators, food establishments, and other stakeholders, ensuring the framework is practical and effective.

As Ahmad Ali Moosa, Director of Fair Trade & Business Protection at DCCPFT, stated: “Dubai prides itself on its public and private sector partnerships… we have formed this working group and developed these guidelines hand-in-hand with the industry to encourage sustainable growth and further elevate business standards, while promoting collaboration, transparency and fair competition for the benefit of all stakeholders.”

Key Areas Covered by the Guidelines

The new guidelines have been circulated to owners and operators across the industry. They outline recommended best practices covering critical aspects of the business, including:

• Platform Terms of Engagement with food establishments (e.g., contracts and agreements).
• Data Access (ensuring fair use and availability of sector data).
• Transparency (in pricing, fees, and listing practices).

Ultimately, this framework is designed to benefit the entire food delivery ecosystem by encouraging open competition and supporting robust sector growth, aligning with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.

A Thriving Market Set for Growth

The focus on the food delivery sector is well-justified by its economic importance. According to Statista research:

• Revenues in the UAE online food delivery market are projected to exceed AED5 billion in 2025.
• This figure is expected to approach AED6 billion by 2030.
• The wider accommodation and food services sector already accounts for 3.4% of Dubai’s GDP.

By introducing these measures, the DCCPFT aims to build on this growth and maintain fair practices, demonstrating Dubai’s commitment to a competitive and ethical digital economy. The Corporation will continue to work with stakeholders to assess feedback and make recommendations on future measures to ensure sustained growth.

 

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Source: https://www.zawya.com/en/business/transport-and-logistics/dubai-strengthens-online-food-delivery-sector-with-new-working-group-and-guidelines-bqkudlyn

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In a move set to revolutionize the business landscape, Dubai has announced the launch of the Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit. This new system creates a streamlined, structured pathway for companies registered in a Free Zone to conduct business directly within Dubai’s Mainland.

This initiative is a game-changer for businesses seeking growth, offering a cost-effective and low-risk way to expand their operations across jurisdictions.

Bridging the Mainland and Free Zones

Announced by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the new permit is designed to ease cross-jurisdiction operations. It is expected to:

• Open new avenues for domestic trading.
• Allow access to government contracts and tenders.
• Foster growth for both small enterprises and multinational corporations.

“This move eases cross-jurisdiction operations, opening cost-effective, low-risk pathways for businesses to engage in domestic trading and secure government contracts…” — Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)

Key Details and Benefits

What Activities are Covered? In its initial phase, the permit covers non-regulated activities, including:

• Technology
• Consultancy
• Design
• Professional Services
• Trading (Plans are in place to extend this to regulated sectors in the future.)

Permit Validity and Cost:

• The permit is valid for six months.
• The cost is Dh5,000, renewable for the same fee every six months.

Tax and Compliance:

• Free zone companies engaging in mainland activities will be subject to the 9% corporate tax on related revenues.
• Companies must maintain separate financial records in line with Federal Tax Authority (FTA) requirements.
• Existing staff can be utilized for mainland operations, eliminating the need for new recruitment.

Projected Impact: 10,000 Firms to Benefit

The DET projects that this initiative will boost cross-jurisdictional activity in Dubai by 15–20 per cent in the first year, directly benefiting over 10,000 active free zone firms. Companies will now be able to integrate with domestic supply chains and bid on government contracts worth billions annually—opportunities previously reserved for mainland-licensed entities.

This move solidifies Dubai’s position as a hub for regulatory innovation and reinforces its commitment to progressive, business-friendly policies that attract global investors.

 

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Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/business/dubai-launches-free-zone-mainland-operating-permit

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Old Dubai’s cultural food tour has been spotlighted as one of the world’s most essential experiences for 2026, earning a coveted spot on Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel list!

This major international accolade shines a bright light on Dubai’s rich and diverse culinary scene, confirming what residents and frequent visitors already know—the city’s historic heart is a gastronomic treasure trove.

A Culinary Journey Built on Heritage

Dubai is renowned globally for its luxury and innovation, but its food culture is built on a strong foundation of heritage and tradition. This city is a true melting pot, with nearly 200 nationalities shaping its flavours and creating a remarkable array of dining experiences to suit every palate and budget.

The areas of Bur Dubai and Deira, which flank the historic Dubai Creek, are where this tradition truly comes alive. Here, you’ll find eateries that consistently honour authenticity, local ingredients, and unbeatable value. Taking a guided food tour through these vibrant, storied neighbourhoods is an absolutely unmissable experience for anyone looking to taste the real Dubai.

A First for Dubai

The Old Dubai food tour was chosen by Lonely Planet’s panel of expert contributors to join just 49 other global picks—25 destinations and 25 experiences—that define the essential travel roadmap for the year ahead.

While Dubai was previously celebrated as one of the world’s best cities to visit in the Best in Travel 2020 list, this 2026 distinction is especially noteworthy. It marks the first time a specific area within the city has been singled out for such a prestigious global honour.

 

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Source: https://gulfnews.com/uae/old-dubai-cultural-food-tour-named-top-global-experience-for-2026-1.500317449

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Attention all content creators and social media advertisers in the UAE!

The UAE Media Council has officially extended the deadline for obtaining the new “Advertiser” licence. You now have until January 31, 2026, to get your paperwork in order. This extension provides a crucial grace period for creators and businesses to comply with the new regulations.

What is the “Advertiser” Licence?

Recently launched by the UAE Media Council, the “Advertiser” licence is a key document designed to regulate and promote advertising activity across social media platforms nationwide.

The initiative is part of a larger strategy to strengthen the UAE’s standing as a global hub for quality advertising and content creation. The Council has already reported the successful issuance of more than 1,800 “Advertiser” licences since its launch, showing a strong initial uptake from the community.

Why is This Licence Important?

The record number of licences already issued is accelerating the achievement of several key national objectives:

• Supporting Investment: Encouraging further investment in the digital advertising content industry.
• Enhancing Competitiveness: Boosting the UAE’s digital advertising sector on the global stage.
• Empowering Talent: Attracting and supporting creative talent within the country.
• Public Protection: Safeguarding the public from advertisements that do not meet approved standards or prevailing societal values.

The new deadline of January 31, 2026 gives everyone ample time to ensure full compliance. If you are a content creator or social media personality who engages in any form of paid promotion or advertising, make sure you take action before the new cutoff date!

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Source: https://gulfnews.com/uae/uaes-content-creator-licence-deadline-has-been-extended-1.500317517

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The 20th International Property Show (IPS) convenes in Dubai (February 27-29), positioning itself as a premier platform for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) developers to connect with a global audience of investors, homebuyers, and industry professionals.

Leading GCC developers like The Sustainable City (Oman), Saudi Arabian authorities, and United Development Company (Qatar) are confirmed participants. Atiq Al-Rahman, from Sawa United Company (Kuwait), highlights the event’s ability to foster connections and shape the dynamic GCC real estate landscape.

Beyond the GCC, nearly 40 countries will be represented, creating a global melting pot for collaboration. The booming GCC real estate market, projected to reach $4.55 trillion by 2024, presents a compelling opportunity, particularly in the residential sector with its anticipated growth and high demand for luxury properties.

In collaboration with the Dubai Land Department, IPS 2024 offers a diverse program including exhibitions, conferences, and focused sessions on topics like future cities, finance, and design. This multifaceted approach emphasizes the commitment to innovation and knowledge exchange within the real estate sector, providing unmatched exposure for exhibitors.

With over 10,000 expected visitors, IPS 2024 presents a unique opportunity for GCC developers to showcase their projects, connect with industry leaders, and explore investment possibilities on a global scale.

 

Publish 21 Feb 2024

Source: https://www.tradingview.com/news/reuters.com,2024-02-21:newsml_Zaw64STMJ:0-pressr-ips-2024-to-feature-top-real-estate-exhibitors-from-gcc-countries/

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A Recent Study by Business Name Generator positions the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a leading jurisdiction for launching a startup business in 2025 and 2026. The analysis assessed 52 countries across various factors critical to entrepreneurial success, including tax rates, cost of living, infrastructure, economic growth projections, and well-being.

The UAE secured the third-place ranking, demonstrating its attractiveness for new ventures. This placement is attributed to its competitive corporate tax rate of nine percent, the second-lowest among the analyzed nations. Additionally, the study forecasts a promising four percent GDP growth for the UAE in 2024, coupled with a high GDP per capita of $47,663, signifying a robust national economy that fosters entrepreneurial endeavors.

The streamlined business establishment process in the UAE is another noteworthy advantage. On average, it takes only four days to legally set up a company. Furthermore, the study indicates a reasonable monthly cost of living at $983.62 (excluding rent), contributing to the overall financial viability of launching a startup in the UAE.

While the UAE offers a compelling environment for entrepreneurs, the study also highlights contrasting realities in certain regions. The Philippines, Italy, and Brazil were identified as the most challenging locations to launch a startup due to factors such as high tax burdens and bureaucratic complexities.

The research also delves into aspects beyond pure economic considerations. Finland emerged as the nation with the highest happiness score for entrepreneurs, while India secured the top spot for affordability. These insights underscore the importance of a holistic approach when selecting a location for a startup venture.

 

Publish 15 Apr 2024

Source: https://www.arabianbusiness.com/gcc/uae/uae-politics-economics/uae-ranks-among-the-worlds-best-countries-to-launch-a-business-in-2024

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