Dubai SME, the agency of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) dedicated to small and medium enterprises, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global delivery platform Deliveroo. The strategic partnership is designed to empower and accelerate the growth of Emirati-owned food and beverage (F&B) businesses registered under the Dubai SME program.
A Strategic Push For Digital Transformation
The collaboration provides a comprehensive support package aimed at facilitating market entry and fast-tracking digital adoption for local entrepreneurs. Members of Dubai SME will receive significant commercial benefits, including special tailored onboarding fees, preferential commission structures, and substantial promotional support to boost marketing efforts.
Beyond the financial incentives, the partnership delivers a holistic digital transformation toolkit. This includes enhanced in-app marketing visibility, dedicated onboarding assistance, operational training programs, and personalized account management to ensure a smooth transition to the digital platform and foster sustainable long-term growth.
Aligning With Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda
This public-private partnership is in direct alignment with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the size of the city’s economy by 2033. By strengthening the SME sector—which represents over 90% of registered businesses in Dubai—the initiative reinforces the backbone of the local economy and enhances Dubai’s reputation as a world-class culinary destination.
Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, stated, “By combining Deliveroo’s technological expertise with our deep understanding of local business needs, we are not just streamlining access to market entry but also accelerating the digital transformation that will define the future economy. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to creating an ecosystem where Emirati entrepreneurs can grow and succeed.”
Empowering The Next Wave Of Entrepreneurs
The MoU represents a new model of collaboration focused on providing tangible results for local F&B entrepreneurs in an increasingly competitive market. The initiative is a key part of Dubai SME’s broader mission to support the creation of 8,000 new Emirati ventures by 2033.
Nick Price, General Manager at Deliveroo Middle East, commented, “Through this partnership with Dubai SME, we’re not only reducing the barriers to entry but also providing the ongoing support that F&B entrepreneurs need to expand their reach, enhance their competitiveness, and build sustainable growth. This collaboration reflects our shared belief that public–private partnerships are a powerful driver of innovation and economic progress.”
About Dubai SME
Dubai SME, officially The Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, is an agency of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. Its mission is to foster an ideal environment for entrepreneurship, supporting the establishment and growth of SMEs and integrating Emirati entrepreneurs into the city’s dynamic business ecosystem.
About Deliveroo
Deliveroo is a global online food delivery company operating in multiple countries worldwide. The platform connects customers with a wide selection of local restaurants and grocery partners, enabling them to order food and other essentials for on-demand delivery.
Source: Zawya
