Dubai SME and Deliveroo Join Forces to Empower Emirati SMEs in the F&B Sector

A New Partnership for Growth

Dubai SME has announced a strategic collaboration with Deliveroo aimed at enhancing opportunities for Emirati-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the food and beverage (F&B) sector. This partnership is set to provide local businesses with essential resources to thrive in a competitive market.

Memorandum of Understanding

The two entities have formalized their collaboration through a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement focuses on supporting local SMEs by facilitating cost-effective digital adoption, improving customer outreach, and bolstering overall competitiveness. The initiative aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda, known as D33, which aims to double the emirate’s economy by 2033.

Benefits for Dubai SMEs

Under the terms of the agreement, members of Dubai SME will enjoy several advantages designed to ease their transition into the digital landscape:

• Tailored Onboarding Fees: Reduced fees to help SMEs get started with Deliveroo’s platform.
• Preferential Commission Structures: More favorable commission rates to enhance profitability.
• Promotional Support: Significant marketing assistance aimed at boosting customer acquisition.

This collaboration also includes a comprehensive digital transformation package. SMEs will receive in-app marketing visibility, operational training programs, personalized account management, and dedicated onboarding support to ensure a seamless transition to digital platforms.

Insights from Leadership

Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, emphasized the importance of SMEs in Dubai’s economic framework. He stated, “SMEs are pivotal to Dubai’s economic success, particularly in the F&B sector, where they drive creativity and enrich the city’s culinary landscape.” He further noted that the partnership with Deliveroo not only streamlines market entry but also accelerates the digital transformation necessary for future economic growth.

Nick Price, General Manager at Deliveroo Middle East, echoed this sentiment, stating, “At Deliveroo, we are dedicated to empowering local businesses. This partnership with Dubai SME is designed to lower barriers for Emirati-owned SMEs, providing them with the tools they need to thrive in today’s digital economy.” He highlighted that the collaboration reflects a shared belief in the power of public-private partnerships to foster innovation and economic advancement.

The Role of SMEs in Dubai’s Economy

SMEs constitute over 90% of registered businesses in Dubai and employ a significant portion of the private sector workforce. Within this ecosystem, F&B entrepreneurs are crucial in establishing Dubai as a premier global culinary destination. The support from Deliveroo is expected to enhance their capabilities, allowing them to compete more effectively in a rapidly changing market.

Long-Term Goals for Emirati Entrepreneurs

As part of its broader mission, Dubai SME aims to facilitate the creation of 8,000 new Emirati ventures by 2033. This initiative would increase the total number of supported businesses to 27,000, up from 19,000 in 2024. The partnership with Deliveroo is a vital step toward achieving this ambitious target, offering Emirati entrepreneurs affordable access to digital tools, training, and customer engagement opportunities.

In summary, the collaboration between Dubai SME and Deliveroo represents a significant advancement for Emirati-owned SMEs in the F&B sector. By providing essential resources and support, this partnership aims to foster sustainable growth and innovation, ultimately contributing to the broader goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.