The vending machine business in the UAE is booming—offering entrepreneurs a low cost business setup in Dubai with steady passive income and minimal overheads.
From busy corporate hubs to tourist hotspots, vending machines provide 24/7 convenience, making them one of the fastest-growing retail trends in the region.
In this guide, KrezKo’s experts walk you through market potential, licensing, costs, and setup steps so you can launch your vending machine business in Dubai with confidence.
Why Dubai is Perfect for a Vending Machine Business
Dubai offers the perfect mix of high demand, modern infrastructure, and government support for innovative retail models like vending machines.
Minimal staffing requirements
High return on investment
Tax-friendly environment
100% ownership in Free Zones
Quick setup through new company setup in Dubai services
Steady revenue with the right location strategy
At KrezKo, we help entrepreneurs with every step of business setup in UAE, including vending licenses, machine sourcing, and location permits.
What Are Vending Machines?
Vending machines are automated devices that dispense products — such as snacks, beverages, hygiene items, or electronics — without the need for human staff. Customers simply insert cash, tap a card, or scan a QR code to select and receive their item instantly.
- Cashless Payments: Accept cards, mobile wallets, and QR payments
- Smart Inventory: Tracks stock levels and sales in real-time
- Energy Efficient: Designed to reduce electricity consumption
- Customizable: Can sell snacks, drinks, PPE, electronics, or even books
Types of Vending Machines to Consider in UAE
Snack & Drink Machines – For malls, offices, and public spaces.
Coffee Vending Machines – Perfect for corporate and hospitality sectors.
Healthy Snack Machines – In demand at gyms, clinics, and schools.
Hygiene Product Machines – Useful in airports and hotels.
Electronics Vending Machines – Ideal for transit hubs.
Frozen Food & Ice Cream Machines – Great for family entertainment areas.
Why Are Vending Machines Popular in the UAE?
- 24/7 convenience
- No need for staff
- Easy to maintain
- Profitable in the right locations
- Fits well with Dubai’s tech-forward lifestyle
Vending Machine Market Size in the UAE
The UAE vending machine market is currently valued at approximately $85.66 million and is projected to reach $188.13 million by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 14.01%. This growth is fueled by factors like rising youth demographics, a preference for convenience and cashless transactions, and the adoption of smart technologies in vending machines
- Convenience and Speed: Vending machines offer a quick and easy way to purchase snacks, beverages, and other items, especially in busy areas and locations where traditional retail options are limited.
- Growing Urbanization As urban populations grow, the demand for convenient and accessible retail solutions like vending machines increases, particularly in areas with high foot traffic such as malls, transportation hubs, and office buildings.
- Technological Advancements: The integration of smart technologies, like cashless payment systems and inventory management, enhances the user experience and attracts tech-savvy consumers.
- Government Support: Supportive government policies and initiatives promoting innovative retail solutions also contribute to the market’s growth
- Changing Consumer Preferences The demand for healthy snacks, personalized shopping experiences, and contactless payment options are also driving the market, according to several sources.
- High Tourism The UAE’s robust tourism sector further boosts the market, with vending machines strategically placed in popular tourist destinations
The UAE’s vending machine market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, with advancements in technology and a focus on customer experience playing key roles in its future development.
Identify the best locations (offices, schools, gyms, malls) and the type of products (snacks, drinks, hygiene products, tech accessories).
- Ensure the name complies with Dubai’s naming regulations—avoid offensive terms, abbreviations, or names of well-known companies.
- Check the availability of your desired name before registering it.
- Select a name that’s simple, memorable, and relevant to your vending machine business.
- Dubai Mainland—ideal for high-footfall zones
- Free Zones – offer 100% ownership, lower startup cost
- Department of Economic Development (DED)—for mainland
- Free Zone Authorities—for zones like IFZA, SHAMS, or DMCC
- Additional Approvals: For food and beverages, obtain health and safety approvals from Dubai Municipality.
Negotiate with building managers or retail property owners. Choose areas with high traffic and long dwell times.
- Credit/debit cards
- Mobile payments
- QR codes
Starting a vending machine business in Dubai can cost between AED 20,000 and AED 30,000, but this can vary based on several factors. These factors include the type of license (Mainland or Free Zone), the cost of the vending machines themselves, location rental fees, and maintenance contracts.
- Business License:Expect to pay AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 annually for a vending machine license, depending on the business structure and activity.
- Trade Name Registration:This may cost between AED 1,000 and AED 2,000.
- Initial Approval Fee:A small fee of AED 100-500 may be required.
- Visa Costs
- Office Space: If you require office space, costs can start from AED 20,000 annually
- Bank Guarantee: This varies based on business size and structure
Basic Snack/Drink Machines: Expect to pay AED 5,000 – AED 15,000 per unit, according To Krezko
Smart Vending Machines: These can range from AED 20,000 to AED 50,000+ per unit, according toKrezko Business Setup.
Refurbished Machines: These may cost between AED 5,000 and AED 10,000, according to krezko
Card Readers/Digital Payment Systems: These can cost between AED 1,500 and AED 5,000 per unit, according to Krezko .
Remote Monitoring Systems:
These may cost between AED 2,000 and AED 8,000, depending on the system’s sophistication, according to Krezko .
3. Location and Installation: Installation: Expect to pay AED 1,000 – AED 3,000 per machine for delivery and installation, according to Krezko business setup.
Location Rental: Monthly rent for premium locations like malls or metro stations can range from AED 2,000 to AED 10,000, according to Krezko Business Setup.
4. Ongoing Costs: Maintenance Contracts: These can range from AED 1,000 to AED 3,000 annually, according to Krezko Business Setup.
Stock and Inventory: This is an ongoing cost to keep your machines stocked with products.
- Register the company legally with a proper activity code
- Comply with health and safety guidelines
- Ensure your machine accepts cashless payments (as per modern UAE standards)
- Get permission from property owners before installing machines
- Passport copies
- Visa copies
- Proof of residency in the UAE (if applicable)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Trade name registration certificate
- Trade license application documents
- Additional approval and permits (Location permit, health & safety approvals)
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the landlord or property owner, if needed
Requirements may differ depending on whether you are starting a mainland business or operating in a free zone. Consulting with a business setup expert, such as Krezko Business Setup, can help to streamline the process and ensure regulatory compliance.
The vending industry in the UAE is evolving fast—driven by smart technology, cashless payments, and consumer demand for on-the-go convenience. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or expanding your portfolio, this is the ideal time to launch a low cost business setup in Dubai with high growth potential.
At KrezKo, we simplify the entire process—from business licensing and approvals to choosing the right vending solution for your target market. Let us help you turn your idea into a profitable business.