Market Intelligence
Franchising Food and Beverage Retail Trade United Arab Emirates

UAE Franchise Opportunities for U.S. Companies

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a rapidly growing market for U.S. franchises, fueled by strong economic growth, estimated to be six percent in 2025, rising consumer demand, and continued expansion in retail and hospitality. With a well-developed infrastructure and strategic geographic location, the UAE acts as a gateway to the wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The UAE’s strong logistics infrastructure also makes it a favorable hub for regional expansion across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

The franchise industry has become a major contributor to the UAE economy, with annual revenues reaching $27.2 billion, and an annual growth rate of 15 percent, according to the Abu Dhabi Chamber. The UAE is home to over 100 shopping malls spread across the seven Emirates, including iconic malls like the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, and Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi. New retail developments are consistently in progress, creating growing demand for innovative shopping, dining, and lifestyle experiences. This growth, combined with a diverse population of over 200 nationalities, makes the UAE a thriving destination for U.S. franchises.

There are many opportunities for U.S. companies, particularly those that bring innovation, sustainability, and convenience to the market. Eco-conscious brands that feature plastic-free packaging, carbon-neutral operations, or upcycled ingredients are increasingly appealing to the UAE market. Tech-enabled retail experiences such as smart ordering systems, loyalty apps, and digital interfaces resonate well with the UAE’s highly connected and tech-savvy population. In addition, there is a growing trend for branded cafés, specialty food outlets, and mini-market chains that can be incorporated into hotel services, as hospitality groups seek to enhance guest experiences through well-known and lifestyle-oriented franchise offerings. 

Opportunities:

  • Food & Beverage (F&B): There is demand for quick-service restaurants (QSR), casual dining and coffee shops, especially with concepts that integrate health-conscious or sustainable themes.
  • Retail: Fashion, beauty, home décor, and children’s brands perform well, particularly when supported by a strong e-commerce strategy.
  • Fitness & Wellness: Boutique gyms, wellness studios, and health-related services are growing rapidly, aligning with shifting consumer priorities.
  • Education & Enrichment: Learning centers, STEM education programs, and early childhood enrichment franchises are also growing opportunities.

Learn more at events in the UAE:

  • Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition (ADIFE), October 21–23, 2025, Abu Dhabi
  • Gulfood – January 26-30, 2026, Dubai
  • Global Franchise Expo, 2026, Dubai

Foreign brands typically enter the market through local partners as master franchisees. Franchise agreements in the UAE are not governed by a specific franchise law but fall under the UAE Commercial Agencies Law, Civil Code, and Commercial Transactions Law.

For more information, contact Office.AbuDhabi@trade.gov.