Who can resist chocolate – particularly when it has the potential to make savvy entrepreneurs a fortune? Driven by a population with a growing appetite for premium and artisan chocolate, the chocolate industry in Dubai is thriving. According to recent data, the UAE chocolate market is estimated at USD 537.3 million in 2025 and is expected to reach a staggering USD 704.1 million by 2030.
This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap for anyone considering entering this lucrative industry, getting you on the right path for starting a chocolate business in Dubai.
How to start a chocolate business in Dubai: step-by-step
Launching a chocolate business in Dubai may seem daunting, but the process is relatively straightforward. However, as with any business, it is important to have as much local knowledge and expertise at your fingertips as possible. If you live outside the emirate or have only recently relocated to Dubai, a business setup consultancy like Set Hub will prove invaluable.
To give you an idea of what the process typically looks like, here are five simple steps to starting a chocolate business in Dubai:
Step 1: Market research and business plan
The first phase involves identifying your target audience, studying competitors and narrowing down your offering. You must decide whether you will specialise in luxury, artisan or everyday chocolate, and consider market trends, customer preferences and gaps in the market. Once you have a clear understanding of your niche, create a comprehensive business plan outlining your objectives, budget, marketing strategy and operational approach. Ideally, this will include projections for growth and potential challenges to ensure a robust roadmap for your business.
Step 2: Settle on a business location
Location is everything. Free Zones offer considerable benefits to entrepreneurs, such as 100% foreign ownership and repatriation, 0% personal income tax and low corporate tax rates. Mainland businesses offer greater flexibility when it comes to trading with local markets.
Once you have settled on a jurisdiction, you need to start thinking about physical premises. You might want to prioritise areas with higher footfall, such as shopping malls and busy commercial districts.
Step 3: Apply for the necessary licenses
To legally operate your business in Dubai, you will need a license. If you choose to operate your business in one of Dubai’s Free Zones, you can apply for this through your chosen Free Zone or by contacting Set Hub. If you choose to set up your business on the mainland, you must register with Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED) or get assistance from Set Hub. Our company setup advisors will ensure your application is error-free, giving you a smooth and hassle-free experience. Additionally, you will need external approval from the Dubai Municipality for handling food products.
Step 4: Start investing in equipment and suppliers
You will need high-quality chocolate-making equipment and ingredients to meet production demands efficiently and consistently. Partner with reliable suppliers who can provide top-grade ingredients to ensure your chocolate stands out. You could also consider sourcing organic, fair-trade, or sustainably produced materials to appeal to environmentally and ethically conscious customers.
Step 5: Hire your staff
From day one, assembling a skilled team will be crucial for your business’s success. Hire chocolatiers and food handlers experienced in maintaining product quality and adhering to food safety standards. Look for staff with a passion for innovation and customer service, as their expertise and creativity will play an important role in crafting a unique brand identity.
Food safety regulations to start a chocolate business
According to the latest guidelines from the Dubai Municipality Food Safety Department, which regulates food safety in Dubai, chocolate business owners in Dubai must comply with the following:
1. HACCP Certification: Implement hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP) to identify and manage food safety risks.
2. Food safety training: Ensure all staff have completed food safety training certified by Dubai Municipality.
3. Premises approval: Your facility must meet Dubai Municipality’s health and safety standards.
4. Products must also comply with labelling and packaging regulations. Remember, failure to comply may result in fines and legal action.
How to grow a chocolate business in Dubai
Launching a business is only the beginning. To ensure success year on year, you need to ensure that you are investing in growth. Here are a few tips to help you stand out in a competitive market:
Offer personalised products
Today’s customers expect brands to tailor their products and services to their personal needs. Offering personalised products, such as engraved logos or bespoke packaging, for events like weddings and events could give you the edge and help you stand out. Invest in quality design tools and build relationships with event planners to promote these services.
Partner with hotels and cafes
Hospitality and tourism is booming in Dubai. By collaborating with luxury hotels and Instagrammable cafes, you can leverage your partner’s name while boosting the credibility of your own brand. Pitch exclusive dessert creations or signature items featuring your products. Offer revenue-sharing agreements or bulk discounts to foster long-term partnerships.
Invest in premium packaging
It’s hard not to judge a book by its cover, particularly when you are unfamiliar with a brand. Make it easier for customers to choose your chocolate over competitors by investing in eco-friendly materials, gold embossing or sleek designs that appeal to Dubai’s luxury-conscious clientele. If you’re going down the sustainability route, you could highlight your sustainable packaging efforts in marketing campaigns to attract environmentally conscious customers.
Host events and workshops
You could add a secondary income stream to your offering and build brand loyalty by organising chocolate-making workshops and tasting events. These interactive experiences will help you engage directly with your customers and create buzz around your brand. It is also a good opportunity to upsell products. Market these experiences on social media and through collaborations with local influencers.
Optimise for online sales
You could stick to a physical store, but that means missing out on thousands of potential customers online. E-commerce in Dubai is booming and only set to grow. Create an e-commerce platform with seamless delivery options, easy-to-navigate product catalogues and secure payment options. Invest time and resources into your social channels and use targeted ads and collaborations to drive online traffic. You could also consider adding Arabic-language support to cater to local customers.
About Set Hub
Set Hub specialises in business consultation services in the UAE. With a focus on empowering businesses to thrive in Dubai’s dynamic market, we offer bespoke solutions tailored to each entrepreneur and investor’s needs. From business setup in Dubai to navigating regulations, our expertise makes it easier and quicker for your vision to become a reality.
Backed by years of experience and success, Set Hub’s customer-first approach ensures reliability, excellence and innovation. So, whether you’re launching a chocolate business in Dubai or any other venture, we can equip you with the tools, guidance and support you need to succeed in the UAE’s competitive market.
