Dubai Issues New Regulations for Online Food Delivery Platforms to Ensure Fairness and Transparency

Online food delivery has turned into an important part of the daily life of residents in Dubai. This is because more than a million orders are being placed every month in the emirate. However, the growing pace has also raised concerns over transparency, high commissions, and customers’ rights. 

Therefore, the  Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade (DCCPFT)  has introduced a new guideline under Circular No. 2 of 2025, in line with Dubai Law No. 5 of 2023, to address these issues. In addition, the framework launched a clear set of rules for restaurants, delivery platforms, and customers that aims to create a balance and a clear food delivery ecosystem across the emirate. 

Key Objectives of the New Guidelines for Online Food Delivery

The updated rules are built for the following goals:

• Ensuring fair trade practices between restaurants and delivery apps.
• Enhancing transparency in contracts, commissions, and ranking systems.
• Preventing anti-competitive practices such as exclusivity agreements.
• Supporting consumer protection and dispute resolution.

Major Provisions Restaurants and Platforms Must Follow

1. Fair Contracts – Platforms must provide clear terms. In addition, any changes require 30 days’ notice. However, restaurants have the power to terminate agreements if the terms are unfavorable.
2. Data Transparency – Restaurants must get equitable access to non-personal customer data, like sales reports and order history. In addition, they must reveal any incentives and promotions.
3. Fees and Commissions – Monthly itemized statements are compulsory without hidden or retroactive charges. Advertising fees are optional.
4. Platform Neutrality – Delivery platforms cannot unfairly prioritize their own brands or affiliates.
5. Order Cancellations – Restaurants will not hold responsible in case of any delays or system failures outside their control.
6. Subscription Models – Costs of customer programs like “free delivery” cannot be unfairly shifted onto restaurants.
7. Anti-Competitive Practices – Exclusivity arrangements and aggressive pricing are strictly not allowed.
   

Impact on Dubai’s Food Delivery Sector

The rules are expected to even the playing field for small and independent restaurants. In addition, it will also help develop a greater trust in digital food platforms. Moreover, they also aim to save delivery personnel from unfair methods and boost sustainable growth in the industry. 

DCCPFT CEO, Mohammed Abdullah Shael AlSaadi,  said, “The new framework will shape anti-competitive conduct and boost clear, fair, and responsible transparency platform operations across the Emirates.” These changes promise a fairer, accountable, and customer-friendly online delivery platform sector for residents of Dubai and restaurant owners. 

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