Dubai Municipality Unveils Third Edition of Food Systems Excellence Programme
The emirate's food sector is invited to demonstrate excellence across safety, sustainability and innovation, with a newly introduced manufacturing category expanding the prestigious recognition initiative.
Dubai Municipality has announced the third edition of its Food Systems Excellence Programme, commonly known as DM Food Elite, an initiative designed to celebrate food establishments that exemplify exceptional standards across multiple dimensions of operational excellence.
The programme recognises participating restaurants and food businesses that transcend basic regulatory compliance, instead adopting advanced practices and demonstrating sustained commitment to improvement. By encouraging such elevated standards, Dubai Municipality aims to enhance the quality and safety of food services throughout the emirate whilst fostering consumer confidence and supporting public health outcomes.
A significant development in this year’s edition is the introduction of a dedicated Food Manufacturing category, broadening the programme’s scope to encompass leading production facilities. This expansion reflects the evolving landscape of Dubai’s food sector and acknowledges the critical role that manufacturing establishments play in ensuring food safety and quality.
The programme now comprises four assessment categories: Standalone Restaurants; Restaurants in Hotels; Quick Service Restaurants and Cafeterias; and the newly added Food Manufacturing division. Three establishments will receive recognition within each category, providing meaningful distinction for sector leaders.
Dr Naseem Mohammed Rafee, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Environment, Health and Safety Agency at Dubai Municipality, emphasised the strategic importance of the initiative. She noted that DM Food Elite provides a platform for acknowledging establishments that demonstrate sustained excellence and continuous operational improvement, whilst encouraging the wider sector to strengthen performance across food safety, nutrition, sustainability, innovation and digital transformation.
The assessment process unfolds across three comprehensive stages. Initially, officials verify eligibility and review historical performance data, with participating establishments required to have achieved consecutive ‘A’ ratings in Dubai Municipality food safety inspections. The second phase encompasses detailed assessments and on-site audits, during which inspectors evaluate systems and practices relating to food safety, sustainability and nutritional quality, whilst reviewing customer feedback. The final stage involves a jury review of results and supporting documentation to confirm that establishments meet all programme requirements.
Interested establishments may register until 9 October 2026 through the dedicated portal at dmfoodelite.dm.gov.ae. Winners will be recognised during the 20th Dubai International Food Safety Conference, scheduled for 16 to 18 November 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre, where their achievements in advancing food safety and sustainability will be celebrated.
Source: WAM