The food service market in the United Arab Emirates is projected to reach approximately €16 billion by 2025, reflecting a growth rate of 1.6% compared to 2024, with further anticipated growth of 4.2% by 2030. The global food service market has experienced a phase of steady growth, expected to reach around €2.98 trillion in 2025, as the sector transitions from pandemic recovery to a more stable and mature operational model.
According to an initial review of the “Food Service Market Monitor 2026” report by Deloitte, which was shared at the TuttoFood exhibition, the global growth rate is anticipated to be 2.2% in 2025 compared to 2024. This growth is mainly driven by strong performance in European markets, which recorded a growth of 6.0%, alongside the Asia-Pacific region at 3.8%, fueled by improved demand levels and the ongoing adaptation of the sector to economic and operational changes.
The UAE continues to bolster the global food service sector’s growth with a stable market and the emergence of new trends within supply chains. The anticipated value of the food service market in the UAE stands at around €16 billion for 2025, amidst a backdrop of relatively stable global conditions. This performance is attributed to the rapid expansion of fast-food models in the country, expected to grow by 5.3% over the next five years. As momentum continues, the UAE food service market is becoming a highly attractive destination for strategic investment opportunities, underpinned by clear growth fundamentals and supportive market trends. The fast-food segment is projected to maintain one of the highest growth rates in the near future, alongside the popular food sector, while North America and the Asia-Pacific region lead global market growth propelled by these models.
Supply Chains
Antonio Cieli, CEO of Vieri di Parma, commented, “The food service sector is entering a new phase characterized by changes in consumer behavior and increasing complexity in supply chains. Platforms like TuttoFood, a leader in the food sector in Southern Europe, are transforming market indicators into tangible business opportunities by connecting international suppliers with over 4,000 key buyers, supported by a buyers program developed in cooperation with the Italian Trade Agency.”
Tomaso Nastasi, a partner at Deloitte and head of value services, noted, “The growth of the food service sector in recent years can be attributed to two main factors: the expansion of operational models with fast-food restaurants emerging as a pivotal element, and the increasing presence of operating chains that have demonstrated the ability to combine quality service, product standards, and customer experience. Consequently, this sector has become more appealing to various stakeholders within the value chain, as partnerships with organized chains allow suppliers to streamline their business efforts, enhance cost efficiency related to service, and participate in the development of joint products and services that meet more specific needs, thereby creating greater value across the entire ecosystem.”
Global Trends
On a global scale, consumer behavior is undergoing swift changes, with packaging quality being a significant factor in the growth of delivery services. About 90% of consumers express a willingness to order a wider range of dishes if higher-quality packaging is available, and 53% are willing to pay a premium for it. Conversely, the demand for appropriate value for money is increasing, with nearly 80% of consumers calling for higher levels of digitization throughout various stages of the customer experience, although these aspects still fall short of optimal levels in many markets.
On the supply side, the rise in off-site consumption is reshaping operational models. Approximately 41% of operators are planning to allocate larger spaces for delivery and takeout services, while 34% of fast-food operators are focusing entirely on locations dedicated to takeout orders. Adoption of automation technologies is also accelerating, with 74% of operators implementing tech solutions to enhance productivity. Although only 28% currently indicate a positive impact on profitability, this trend presents broader opportunities for efficiency improvement and innovation support within the sector.