The UAE, with its bustling cities and diverse population, presents a lucrative market for wholesale food distributors. This industry plays a crucial role in ensuring a steady supply of food products to various sectors, including retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and catering companies.
Wholesale distributors in the UAE offer a wide variety of food products, ranging from fresh produce, meat, and seafood to processed foods, beverages, and frozen goods. These distributors typically operate through a network of warehouses and distribution centres, ensuring efficient delivery of products to their customers across the country.
The country’s thriving tourism sector, particularly in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, creates a steady demand for food and beverages from hotels, restaurants, and catering companies. The increasing adoption of e-commerce in the UAE offers new opportunities for wholesale food distributors to reach a wider customer base through online platforms.
Entrepreneurs who want to join this thriving industry can choose the following business activities under their business license.
4630.03 – Wholesale of eggs and egg products
Wholesale of eggs and egg products is a critical component of the food supply chain. It involves the purchase of eggs and egg-based products in large quantities from producers and their subsequent distribution to various customers, including retailers, food manufacturers, and institutional buyers like restaurants, hotels, and hospitals.
4630.04 – Wholesale of edible oils and fats of animal or vegetable origin
Wholesale of edible oils and fats is a crucial segment of the food industry, supplying essential ingredients to a wide range of food manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. These products are used in cooking, baking, frying, and other food preparation processes. Key activities include procurement, quality control, blending and refining, packaging, and distribution.
4630.07 – Wholesale of sugar, chocolate and sugar confectionery
The wholesale of sugar, chocolate, and sugar confectionery is a thriving industry that plays a vital role in the global food supply chain. These products are essential ingredients in a wide range of food and beverages, and they are also enjoyed as treats and indulgences by consumers of all ages. Wholesale distributors source sugar, chocolate, and sugar confectionery from various suppliers.
4630.08 – Wholesale of bakery products
The wholesale of bakery products is a vital segment of the food industry, supplying a wide range of bread, pastries, cakes, and other baked goods to retailers, restaurants, hotels, and other food service establishments. This industry is characterised by its diversity, with products ranging from traditional staples to artisanal delicacies.
4630.09 – Wholesale of beverages
The wholesale of beverages is a vital segment of the food industry, supplying a wide range of drinks to retailers, restaurants, hotels, and other food service establishments. This industry encompasses a diverse range of products, from carbonated soft drinks to alcoholic beverages, bottled water, juices, and energy drinks.
4630.11 – Wholesale of feed for pet animals
The wholesale of pet feed is a thriving industry that supplies essential nutrients to a growing population of pet animals. As pet ownership continues to increase worldwide, the demand for high-quality pet food is also on the rise. Key activities include procurement, quality control, packaging, and distribution.
4630.12 – Supermarket
Supermarkets are a ubiquitous feature of modern retail landscapes, offering a wide range of products under one roof. They serve as one-stop shopping destinations for consumers, providing convenience, variety, and often competitive prices. Key activities include product sourcing and procurement, inventory management, pricing and promotions, technological innovations, and customer service.
4630.13 – Roastery
A roastery is a business that specialises in roasting coffee beans. The roasting process transforms raw coffee beans into the flavorful, aromatic product we enjoy. Roasteries can range from small, artisanal operations to large-scale commercial facilities. Coffee bean sourcing, green Bean inspection, roasting, cooling, packaging, sales, and coffee training are key activities.
4630.14 – Food Supplements Trading
The wholesale of food supplements is a thriving business that caters to the increasing demand for nutritional supplements. These products are designed to provide essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and other dietary components to individuals who may have deficiencies or specific dietary needs.
4630.15 – Baby Food Trading
The wholesale of baby food is a specialised segment of the food industry that caters to the unique nutritional needs of infants and young children. Baby food products typically include formula, cereals, purees, and snacks.
4630.17 – Flavours & Fragrances Trading
The wholesale of flavours and fragrances is a specialised industry that supplies essential ingredients to a wide range of industries, including food and beverage, cosmetics, personal care products, and household goods. These products are used to enhance the taste, aroma, and overall sensory experience of various products.
4630.18 – Wholesale of Mineral Water Trading
The wholesale of mineral water is a thriving industry that caters to the growing demand for clean, healthy, and refreshing beverages. Mineral water is sourced from natural springs and contains various minerals and trace elements that can have health benefits.
4630.19 – Wholesale of Natural Pure Water Trading
The wholesale of natural pure water is a thriving segment of the beverage industry, catering to the growing demand for clean, healthy, and refreshing drinking water. Natural pure water is sourced from natural springs or aquifers and undergoes rigorous purification processes to ensure its quality and safety.
4630.20 – Wholesale of Carbonated Beverages Trading
The wholesale of carbonated beverages is a thriving segment of the beverage industry, catering to the global thirst for fizzy drinks. Carbonated beverages, which include soft drinks, soda, and sparkling water, are popular choices for their refreshing taste and carbonated texture.
4630.21 – Wholesale of Rice Trading
The wholesale of rice trading is a fundamental component of the global food supply chain, particularly in regions where rice is a staple food. Rice is one of the most widely consumed grains worldwide, and its trade plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and economic development.
4630.22 – Wholesale of Frozen Foodstuff Trading
The wholesale of frozen foodstuff is a thriving industry that plays a crucial role in the global food supply chain. Frozen foods offer convenience, a longer shelf life, and often a wider variety of products compared to fresh produce. Wholesale distributors source frozen foodstuff from various suppliers, including food manufacturers, imports from other countries, and other distributors.
4630.23 – Wholesale of aromatic herbs and plants
The wholesale of aromatic herbs and plants is a specialised industry that supplies essential ingredients to a wide range of industries, including food and beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and aromatherapy. These products are prized for their unique flavours, aromas, and potential health benefits.
4630.24 – Trading of aquaculture from local production
The wholesale of aquaculture products is a thriving segment of the food industry, catering to the growing demand for seafood and aquatic products. Aquaculture, also known as fish farming, involves the cultivation of aquatic organisms, such as fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, in controlled environments.
4630.25 – Trading of Dried Meat – Wholesale
The wholesale of dried meat is a specialised segment of the food industry that caters to the growing demand for convenient, shelf-stable, and flavourful meat products. Dried meat is a popular snack food and ingredient in various cuisines worldwide. Wholesale distributors source dried meat from various suppliers, including meat processors, farmers, and through import.
4630.26 – Wholesale of Cereals and Seeds Trading
The wholesale of cereals and seeds is a fundamental component of the global food supply chain. Cereals and seeds are essential ingredients in various food products, including bread, pasta, cereals, and animal feed. Wholesale distributors source cereals and seeds from various suppliers, including farmers and growers, agricultural cooperatives, and through import mechanisms.
4630.27 – Wholesale of Fresh Foodstuff Trading
The wholesale of fresh foodstuff is a critical segment of the food industry, ensuring a steady supply of perishable goods to retailers, restaurants, hotels, and other food service establishments. This industry encompasses a wide range of products, including fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, seafood, and dairy products.
4630.28 – Wholesale of organic food Trading
The wholesale of organic food is a thriving segment of the food industry, catering to the increasing demand for natural, sustainably produced products. Organic food is grown and processed without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilisers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
4630.29 – Wholesale of Food Oil and Animal and Plant Fat Trading
The wholesale of food oils and fats is a crucial segment of the food industry, supplying essential ingredients to a wide range of food manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. These products are used in cooking, baking, frying, and other food preparation processes.
4630.30 – Wholesale of Honey and Apiaries Products Trading
The wholesale of honey and apiary products is a specialised segment of the food industry that caters to the growing demand for natural, healthy, and flavorful products. Honey, beeswax, propolis, and royal jelly are some of the most popular apiary products. Wholesale distributors source honey and apiary products from various suppliers, including beekeepers, honey producers, and through import.
4630.31 – Wholesale of Dates Trading
The wholesale of dates trading is a thriving industry, particularly in regions where dates are a staple food or a popular delicacy. Dates are a nutritious and delicious fruit, often enjoyed as a snack or used in various culinary applications. Wholesale distributors source dates from various suppliers, including date farms, distributors, and through import.
4630.32 – Wholesale of Olive and Pickles Trading
The wholesale of olives and pickles is a specialised segment of the food industry that caters to the growing demand for unique and flavorful condiments. Olives and pickles are popular ingredients in various cuisines worldwide, adding a distinctive taste and texture to dishes. Wholesale distributors source olives and pickles from various suppliers, including olive growers and processors, pickle manufacturers, and through import.
4630.33 – Wholesale of Sweets
The wholesale of sweets is a thriving industry that caters to the global demand for confectionery products. Sweets, including candies, chocolates, gummies, and other sugary treats, are enjoyed by people of all ages. Wholesale distributors source sweets from various suppliers, including confectionery manufacturers, other distributors, and via import.
4630.34 – Wholesale of Nuts Trading
The wholesale of nuts trading is a thriving industry that caters to the growing demand for healthy and nutritious snacks. Nuts are a popular choice for consumers seeking protein, fibre, and essential nutrients. Wholesale distributors source nuts from nut farmers, distributors, or via import from other countries.
4630.35 – Wholesale of Salt Trading
The wholesale of salt trading is a fundamental component of the global food industry, supplying a vital ingredient used in various culinary applications and food preservation. Key activities involve procurement from distributors or producers, quality control, testing, processing, packaging, distribution, promotions, and more.
4630.36 – Wholesale of Dried Food Trading
The wholesale of dried food is a thriving industry that caters to the growing demand for convenient, shelf-stable, and nutritious food products. Dried foods, such as fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood, are popular choices for snacking, cooking, and baking.
4630.37 – Dry Ice Trading
Dry ice, the solid form of carbon dioxide, is a valuable product with numerous applications in various industries. The wholesale of dry ice trading involves the distribution of this unique substance to customers who require it for a variety of purposes.
4630.38 – Coffee Trading
The wholesale of coffee trading is a thriving segment of the global food industry, catering to the growing demand for this popular beverage. Coffee beans are sourced from various regions around the world, each with its unique flavour profile, from producers, distributors, or coffee exporters.
4630.39 – Dried Vegetables & Fruit Trading
The wholesale of dried vegetables and fruits is a thriving segment of the food industry, catering to the growing demand for healthy, convenient, and shelf-stable snacks and ingredients. Dried fruits and vegetables offer a concentrated source of nutrients and are often used in various culinary applications.
4630.40 – Dates Trading
The wholesale of dates trading is a thriving industry, particularly in regions where dates are a staple food or a popular delicacy. Dates are a nutritious and delicious fruit, often enjoyed as a snack or used in various culinary applications.
4630.41 – Ghee & Vegetable Oil Trading
The wholesale of ghee and vegetable oil is a vital segment of the food industry, supplying essential ingredients to a wide range of food manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. Ghee, a clarified butter product, and vegetable oils are used in cooking, baking, frying, and other food preparation processes.
4630.42 – Spices Trading
The wholesale of spices trading is a thriving industry that supplies essential ingredients to a wide range of industries, including food and beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and aromatherapy. Spices add flavour, aroma, and nutritional value to various products.
4630.43 – Canned & Preserved Food Trading
The wholesale of canned and preserved food is a vital segment of the food industry, providing a convenient and long-lasting source of nutrition. Canned and preserved foods are widely used in households, restaurants, and institutions due to their extended shelf life and ease of preparation.
4630.44 – Flavours & Fragrances Trading
The wholesale of flavours and fragrances is a specialised industry that supplies essential ingredients to a wide range of industries, including food and beverage, cosmetics, personal care products, and household goods. These products are used to enhance the taste, aroma, and overall sensory experience of various products.
4630.45 – Snack Food Trading
The wholesale of snack food trading is a thriving industry that caters to the global demand for convenient, flavorful, and often indulgent food products. Snack foods encompass a wide range of products, including potato chips, pretzels, crackers, nuts, seeds, and confectionery.
4630.46 – Flour Trading
The wholesale of flour trading is a fundamental component of the global food supply chain. Flour is a versatile ingredient used in various baked goods, such as bread, pastries, cakes, and pasta. Wholesale distributors source flour from various suppliers, including flour mills, grain traders, and exporters.
4630.47 – Potatoes Trading
The wholesale of potatoes trading is a fundamental component of the global food supply chain. Potatoes are a versatile and widely consumed vegetable, used in various culinary applications around the world. Wholesale distributors source potatoes from various suppliers, including potato farmers, agricultural markets, and exporters.
| Note that all the above business activities exclude the blending of wine or distilled spirits. |
Third-party Approval:
Business activities 4630.03 , 4630.04, 4630.07, 4630.08, 4630.09, 4630.14, require third party approval from the Food Safety Department (Sharjah Municipality) post obtaining your trade license.
Business activity 4630.11 requires third party approval from the Food Safety Department (Sharjah Municipality) prior to obtaining your trade license.
Business activity 4630.15 requires third party approval from the Sharjah Municipality, post to obtaining your trade license.
Business activities 4630.12, 4630.13, 4630.17 – 4630.47 do not require third-party approval.
Filing of Economic Substance Returns: This requirement does not apply to the business activities mentioned in this article.
Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: This requirement does not apply to the business activities mentioned in this article.
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