Although Italian gelato is not yet a mass-market product in this emirate, several entrepreneurs and chains have successfully established their presence, benefiting from Dubai’s strong appreciation for Made in Italy products and its high per capita income.
This guide provides useful insights for new investors considering opening a gelateria in Dubai: Is it worth it? Where is the best location? What licenses and permits are required? And what are the current market prices for gelato?
General Overview of Dubai’s Market
Dubai is one of the seven emirates making up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It has the largest population among the emirates and is the second-largest by area, after Abu Dhabi. Unlike Abu Dhabi, Dubai has limited oil reserves and has strategically diversified its economy, focusing on real estate, finance, tourism, and maritime trade.
Dubai is a prominent tourist destination with a lively real estate market and a significant commercial port. The city is also developing as an IT and financial hub, with initiatives like the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The government airline Emirates, headquartered at Dubai International Airport, enhances connectivity worldwide.
The authorities have also established several free zones (Free Zones) aimed at attracting foreign investment. Dubai Internet City and Dubai Media City (under TECOM), for instance, house global IT giants and media companies. Dubai Knowledge Village supports education and training aligned with these sectors.
Dubai’s population is approximately 80% expatriates, with a considerable workforce in construction and service industries. Tourist hotspots like Jumeirah, home to iconic hotels such as the Burj Al Arab, attract affluent visitors and residents.
Choosing the Right Location for Your Gelateria
The location of your gelateria is crucial to its success, especially given Dubai’s unique climate and consumer patterns. You’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of opening inside a mall versus a street-front location.
Malls
Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall globally, offering over 220,000 square meters of retail space, plus entertainment venues like a 14-screen cinema and a theater. Mall of the Emirates is another prime location, known for its indoor ski slope and steady foot traffic throughout the week.
While malls promise year-round customers, not all are busy daily; many see peak crowds only on weekends. Rent in prestigious malls is extremely high — approximately 600,000 AED (~€140,000) annually for a small 3x3 meter kiosk, with minimum two-year contracts and upfront payment.
Street Locations
Street-front shops have lower rental costs but experience seasonal demand fluctuations. You may only have around eight months of active sales due to Dubai’s intense summer heat (June to September), when daytime and nighttime foot traffic drops significantly. Popular areas include Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), City Walk, and newer concepts like Dubai Box Park, where chains such as GROM have opened outlets.
Rent contracts for street locations are also typically two years with upfront payment, although payment terms might be more flexible than malls.
Licenses and Permits Needed to Open a Gelateria in Dubai
Starting a gelato business in Dubai requires obtaining several licenses and permits. Investors can choose between:
After securing the license and location, you must obtain:
Municipality Permit (HACCP): Essential for food production and safety compliance. Costs around 70,000 AED (~€16,000) for a production facility, less for retail-only outlets.
Civil Defence Approval: Fire and safety inspections covering electrical systems, fire prevention, emergency exits, and air conditioning.
Employers are also required to pay staff salaries through approved channels, with payments processed by the 15th of the following month to ensure labor law compliance.
Market Pricing for Gelato in Dubai
Gelato prices in Dubai vary by establishment type:
Final Considerations for Investors
When opening a gelateria in Dubai, first determine your business model: Will you operate an artisanal production lab offering premium gelato for in-house consumption and wholesale to hotels and restaurants? Or will you focus on a gelateria with table service and possibly an expanded menu?
There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Success depends heavily on the target market, location, and product offering. Having an experienced gelato master (maestro gelatiere) is crucial for producing high-quality gelato. Entrepreneurs should also consider training programs offered by specialist companies or consultancies.
Experience in the gelato sector is an advantage but not mandatory—knowing how to produce excellent gelato is key. To increase your chances of success, it is advisable to partner with industry consultants who can guide you through startup phases, from recipe development to licensing and marketing.
Want to learn more about opening your artisanal gelato business in Dubai?
Contact us at info@ilgelatoartigianale.info or check our directory of gelato ingredient suppliers and service providers.