Food & Beverage Lawyers in Dubai, UAE, and the GCC
Food for thought—and for regulatory certainty.
Food & Beverage Law
Taste Meets Strategy
The food and beverage sector in Dubai, UAE, and the GCC operates in a highly regulated and dynamic environment. Licensing, food safety, labelling, zoning, halal certification, and supply chain compliance create challenges that demand clear, forward-looking legal guidance.
At THINC, we advise restaurants, cafés, catering companies, and food distributors on how to navigate corporate and regulatory hurdles and position their business for success. Our team acts as your in-house corporate counsel, understanding your operational, legal, and commercial needs and taking the necessary measures to safeguard you from any unforeseen risk.
Our Boardroom Wins
At THINC, credibility comes first, and our Boardroom Wins speak for themselves. We have:
Represented a global food manufacturer expanding across the GCC, drafting supply agreements with malls and cinema chains.
Advised a UAE gourmet brand on licensing, lease structuring, and compliance for flagship store operations.
Assisted restaurant operators in meeting Dubai Municipality food safety and zoning requirements.
Supported major F&B brands with lease documentation and negotiations for key outlets.
Worked on management agreements for branded and prominent restaurant chains.
Counsel in Action
Our team of corporate and commercial lawyers provides comprehensive, practical guidance across many areas, including:

Licensing and market entry
for restaurants, cafés, catering services, and distributors.

Lease negotiation and property strategy
for flagship stores and flexible retail locations.

Regulatory compliance
including food safety, labelling, zoning, and halal certification.

Drafting and negotiating supply chain and distribution agreements
•with suppliers, malls, and franchise partners.

Commercial and corporate advisory
on expansion, partnerships, mergers, and consumer protection.
THINC on the Hot Issues
Food and beverage operators in Dubai, UAE, and the GCC face evolving regulatory and operational challenges. We actively support brands and multinational companies with:
- Licensing, zoning, and municipal approvals for restaurants, cafés, catering, and distributors.
- Compliance with food safety, labelling, halal certification, and quality standards.
- Import/export and supply chain management, including delays and certification changes.
- Lease structuring, property agreements, and commercial compliance for flagship stores and outlets.
- Potential fines, closures, reputational damage, or operational setbacks resulting from non-compliance.
THINC ensures businesses stay ahead of these risks, simplifying approvals and protecting growth strategies in a competitive market.
Why Choose THINC?
Success in the food and beverage sector requires comprehensive legal coverage. A missed licensing requirement, a food safety oversight, or a flawed supply agreement can cause significant operational and reputational harm.
At THINC, our team of experienced corporate and commercial lawyers delivers air-tight contracts, including identifying and mitigating unforeseen risks before they happen. With more than 3 decades of practice experience across the GCC, we understand the approach of regulators, the expectations of business partners, and the tactics of competitors.
We deliver partner-led legal and business advisory advice, with the depth of expertise and regional insight required to safeguard your business. This tailored approach provides the clarity and protection your business requires to operate with confidence and expertise.
THINC Legal Solutions. Agile. Precise. Tailored for Tomorrow.
Explore Our Other Areas of Expertise

Technology & Innovation
Navigating digital transformation, data protection, and AI regulation.

Real Estate & Construction
From property acquisition to complex development contracts.

Hospitality & Leisure
Supporting hotels, restaurants, and F&B brands with licensing, franchising, and operations.

Corporate & Commercial
Structuring, mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships.