Food Delivery Apps in the UAE: A Guide for Restaurants
How food delivery platforms work for UAE restaurants: commissions and fees, own delivery vs platform riders, ranking and promotions, packaging and margins.
Key takeaways
- Delivery apps bring reach but charge commissions and marketing fees that squeeze margins.
- Compare platform delivery and your own riders, and negotiate terms where you can.
- Great photos, reliable prep times and good packaging drive rankings and reviews.
On this page
Delivery is a huge share of restaurant revenue in the UAE. Platforms bring customers you couldn’t reach alone, but they also take a meaningful cut. Understanding the economics is essential before you sign up.
How platforms make money
- Commission on each order, often a significant percentage
- Marketing fees for promotions, featured placements and discounts
- Delivery fees, depending on whether the platform provides riders
Terms vary by platform, cuisine, exclusivity and your negotiating power.
Platform riders or your own?
| Platform delivery | Your own riders | |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Easy | Hiring, vehicles, insurance |
| Cost | Higher commission | Lower commission, higher fixed costs |
| Control | Less control over timing | More control over experience |
| Best for | New or small restaurants | High-volume restaurants |
Getting ranked
Platforms favour restaurants with:
- Fast, accurate preparation times
- High ratings and few complaints
- Great photos and clear menus
- Competitive promotions, used carefully
Menu and packaging
- Choose dishes that travel well and price them to cover commissions.
- Use sturdy, well-sealed packaging that keeps food hot or cold.
- Include a small thank-you note or card that encourages direct orders next time.
Protect your margins
- Calculate profit per order after fees, not just food cost.
- Test promotions and stop those that don’t pay back.
- Build direct ordering through your website or phone for loyal customers.
- Review your terms regularly and renegotiate as volume grows.
Delivery-only brands
If delivery is your whole model, see our guide to opening a cloud kitchen. For the licensing basics, read the Dubai food trade licence guide.
To set delivery prices that cover commissions and packaging, use the formulas in our menu pricing guide.
Frequently asked questions
What commission do delivery apps charge in the UAE?
It varies by platform and agreement. Ask each platform for current terms and model them against your margins.
Should restaurants be on every delivery app?
Being on several increases reach but adds complexity. Start with one or two and expand as operations allow.
How can I get more delivery orders?
Improve photos, ratings and prep times, run targeted promotions and encourage repeat customers to order directly.
Sources
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