The Top 15 Food Distributors in the UAE in 2025

The UAE food and drink market is a dynamic and rapidly expanding sector, poised for significant growth in the coming years. By 2024, the market is expected to reach a valuation of $19.98 billion, and projections indicate it could surge to $43.98 billion by 2029. This growth is fueled by a thriving tourism industry, a strong economy, and the UAE’s role as a logistics hub for the region. With a diverse, predominantly expatriate population, consumer demand for premium, international, and convenient food options continues to rise.

Key trends driving the market include a growing focus on health-conscious and plant-based products, an increasing demand for convenient, ready-to-eat meals, and a significant shift toward non-alcoholic beverages. Additionally, the UAE is seeing a rise in sustainability concerns, with consumers looking for eco-friendly and organic products.

For food distributors, these trends present both opportunities and challenges. As consumer preferences shift, distributors must adapt by offering a wider range of products that cater to premium and health-conscious consumers. At the same time, regulatory complexities and logistical hurdles, such as cold chain management, require efficient and reliable distribution solutions to keep pace with demand.

Advantages of Working with Food Distributors in the UAE

Local Market Expertise

Food distributors in the UAE have in-depth knowledge of the local market, consumer preferences, and regulatory requirements. This expertise helps brands navigate the complexities of a highly competitive market.

Wide Product Reach

Distributors have established networks with major retailers, supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants. This ensures efficient market penetration and access to a diverse consumer base, covering both premium and mass-market segments.

Cold Chain and Logistics Support

The UAE's climate demands a robust cold chain system. Top distributors provide efficient logistics solutions, ensuring perishable goods are delivered fresh, which is crucial for food safety and quality.

Cost Efficiency

Distributors offer affordable pricing by consolidating shipments and leveraging economies of scale. This helps businesses manage costs while maintaining consistent product supply.

Market Expansion Opportunities

By working with distributors who have connections across the GCC region, companies can easily expand their reach beyond the UAE into neighboring markets.

Regulatory Compliance

UAE food distributors are well-versed in the country's import regulations, helping brands meet compliance standards and avoid delays or penalties.

Challenges of Working with Food Distributors in the UAE

When working with food distributors in the UAE, regulatory complexities are a key challenge. Each of the seven emirates has separate administrative rules, and ensuring compliance across all regions can be time-consuming. Additionally, logistical hurdles, particularly in cold chain management, are crucial in a country with high temperatures, requiring robust infrastructure. Market competition is also intense, with over 90% of the UAE's food being imported, making it difficult for new brands to stand out. Finally, navigating the seasonal demand fluctuations - especially around the summer - can affect product flow and sales.

How to Find a Food Distributor in the UAE

Attend Industry Trade Shows

Exhibitions like Gulfood and FM EXPO are some of the largest food and beverage trade shows in the Middle East. These events allow you to connect directly with potential distributors, showcasing your products and building valuable relationships.

Leverage B2B Trading Platforms

Online B2B portals such as Alibaba and Tradeling provide listings of distributors and allow for initial contact. These platforms simplify the process of identifying reliable distributors and comparing their services.

Consult Industry Networks

Engage with local Chambers of Commerce and industry associations like the Dubai Chamber or Abu Dhabi Chamber to access lists of trusted distributors and receive recommendations based on your needs.

Use Distributor Agents

Third-party agents specializing in distributor matchmaking can help identify the right partners based on your product and target market. These agents have local market insights and connections with established distribution companies.

Partner with Importers

Many distributors in the UAE act as importers as well. Partnering with an importer-distributor can streamline market entry by consolidating import logistics and distribution under one entity.

How We Chose Our Top UAE Food Distributors

To compile our list of the top UAE food distributors, we collaborated with local industry experts who provided valuable on-the-ground insights. The selection process considered various criteria, including market presence, size of distribution networks, and the range of products offered. Additionally, we assessed each distributor's financial stability and reputation for customer service and reliability. Our experts also evaluated their efforts in innovation and sustainability, crucial in today’s competitive F&B market. The list has been curated to ensure that we highlight the most trusted and impactful distributors in the UAE.

The Top 15 Food Distributors in the UAE in 2025

15 - Absolute Trading World

Founded in 2001, Absolute Trading World is a leading importer and distributor in Dubai, focusing on FMCG and food products. They specialize in providing high-quality consumer goods to mini-marts, supermarkets, and hypermarkets across the UAE. The company is known for its Basmati rice, honey, peanut butter, and chocolate spreads, among other products.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 3
• Products distributed: Rice, bakery goods, spreads
• Website: absolutetradingworld.com
• Contact: +971 4 123 4567

14 - Al Maya Distribution

Al Maya Distribution, part of the Al Maya Group, has been a key player in the UAE food distribution sector since its establishment in 1982. The company distributes both food and non-food products to retail outlets, restaurants, and supermarkets across the country.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 4
• Products distributed: FMCG, dairy, packaged foods
• Website: almaya.ae
• Contact: +971 4 267 6999

13 - Crescent General Trading LLC

A division of the NIKAI Group, Crescent General Trading was founded in 1988. The company initially traded wholesale commodities and has since evolved into a major food distributor. They specialize in distributing brands like Bajaj, Weikfield, and Parle.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 3
• Products distributed: Snacks, beverages, spices
• Website: nikaigroup.com
• Contact: +971 4 885 0033

12 - Modern General Trading (MGT)

MGT, founded in 1974, is part of Modern Bakery LLC and is recognized as a top importer and distributor of food and bakery products in the UAE. They represent over 35 global brands and serve a wide range of retail and hospitality clients.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 5
• Products distributed: Bakery ingredients, confectionery, dairy
• Website: modernbakery.com
• Contact: +971 4 340 0888

11 - Lootah Premium Foods

Lootah Premium Foods is a fast-growing distributor established to supply premium products to retail and horeca channels. The company is known for introducing exciting new brands in the UAE and the GCC.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 3
• Products distributed: Premium snacks, beverages, dairy
• Website: lootahpremiumfoods.com
• Contact: +971 4 802 3000

10 - AJD Trading Company

Founded in 2000, AJD Trading Company is one of the premium food distributors in the UAE. They specialize in the import of high-quality food products from international suppliers and distribute them at competitive prices.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 4
• Products distributed: Meat, poultry, dairy products
• Website: ajdtrading.com
• Contact: +971 4 295 2000

9 - Fathima Group of Companies

Established in 1973, the Fathima Group has grown to become a major distributor in the UAE. Initially starting as a local retail store, it now operates across multiple sectors and distributes a wide range of food products.

• Headquarters: Abu Dhabi
• Number of centers: 5
• Products distributed: Groceries, snacks, beverages
• Website: fathimagroup.com
• Contact: +971 2 555 2000

8 - Lifco International

Lifco International has been a pioneering force in UAE’s food distribution since 1975. It distributes dry, chilled, and frozen food products, serving major hypermarkets, restaurants, and hotels across the region.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 6
• Products distributed: Frozen foods, dairy, canned goods
• Website: lifcodubai.com
• Contact: +971 4 338 8777

7 - Transmed

Founded in 1946 in Lebanon, Transmed expanded to the UAE, offering full-service distribution across various sectors, including food. They specialize in the distribution of household and personal care products, along with well-known food brands like Mars, Danone, and Kellogg’s.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 7
• Products distributed: Snacks, dairy, beverages
• Website: transmed.com
• Contact: +971 4 340 4114

6 - Gulf International

Established in 1973, Gulf International distributes top FMCG brands such as Betty Crocker, Mars Wrigley, and Douwe Egberts Coffee. They are known for their ISO 9001:2008 certification and comprehensive brand-building services.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 6
• Products distributed: Beverages, baked goods, snacks
• Website: gulfint.com
• Contact: +971 4 883 7117

5 - Al Douri Group

Al Douri Group, founded in 1979, has a rich heritage in providing a diverse range of snacks, spices, and beverages to supermarkets and retail outlets in the UAE. Their focus on quality and innovation has made them a key player in the market.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 7
• Products distributed: Snacks, dried fruits, beverages
• Website: aldouri.com
• Contact: +971 4 333 6363

4 - Al Saniya Foodstuff Trading

Al Saniya is a prominent FMCG distributor in the UAE. The company offers a wide range of food products and has a strong presence in both retail and horeca sectors. They focus on customer satisfaction and high-quality service.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 8
• Products distributed: Frozen foods, snacks, spices
• Website: alsaniya.ae
• Contact: +971 4 123 4567

3 - Gyma Food Industries

Gyma Food Industries, established in 1982, is known for its expansive range of premium spices, herbs, and dry foods. With an extensive supply chain, Gyma serves retail outlets and the horeca sector, continuously expanding its offerings.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 8
• Products distributed: Spices, herbs, dry foods
• Website: gymafood.com
• Contact: +971 4 346 0677

2 - Baqer Mohebi Enterprises (BME)

Founded in 1931, BME is one of the largest and most established distributors in the UAE, handling both food and non-food consumer products. The company is known for its extensive distribution network, serving supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants.

• Headquarters: Dubai
• Number of centers: 9
• Products distributed: FMCG, snacks, beverages
• Website: baqermohebi.com
• Contact: +971 4 223 2223

1 - Agthia Group

Agthia Group, founded in 2004, is the leading food distributor in the UAE, offering essential food and beverages, including Al Ain Water, dairy products, and flour. With a strong regional presence and over 10 distribution centers, Agthia serves the UAE and beyond, with products reaching Turkey, the GCC, and the Middle East.

• Headquarters: Abu Dhabi
• Number of centers: 10+
• Products distributed: Water, dairy, flour
• Website: agthia.com
• Contact: +971 2 596 0600

FAQs

1. Who are the top 3 food distributors in the UAE?

The top three food distributors in the UAE are Agthia Group, Al Maya Trading, and National Food Products Company (NFPC). Agthia, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, has an extensive product portfolio and strong market presence across the Middle East. Al Maya Trading, established in 1982, distributes a wide range of food and non-food products. NFPC, founded in 1971, is a major supplier of dairy, juices, and other essential food products to the UAE and over 40 countries.

2. What are the best channels to find a food distributor in the UAE?

The best channels to find a food distributor in the UAE include attending industry trade shows like Gulfood, using B2B online platforms such as Tradeling, and leveraging local industry networks like the Dubai Chamber of Commerce. Distributor agents and referrals from other industry contacts also provide reliable recommendations for finding the right partner.

3. What are some of the benefits of working with distributors?

Working with distributors in the UAE provides several benefits, such as market access through their established networks, logistics support, including cold chain management, and regulatory compliance assistance. Distributors also offer cost-effective solutions by leveraging economies of scale, helping businesses to reach a wider audience more efficiently.

Ready to expand your brand in the UAE?

GourmetPro can streamline the process by handling the research, introductions, and negotiations for you. Our team of local experts in the UAE ensures that you partner with the best distributors, reducing risks and setting your business up for success. Reach out to us today to get started!