The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Sirocco, a joint venture between Heineken and Maritime and Mercantile International, has revealed plans to build a brewery in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The brewery, which once complete will be the largest in the Gulf region, will produce beer brands including Heineken, Kingfisher, Amstel and Birra Moretti. The company expects to expand its workforce from 60 to 190 full time employees. This is a landmark move for a region that has strict restrictions around the sale and consumption of alcohol.

According to Sirocco, it has secured all necessary permits and will begin building the brewery in late 2025, with construction set to be complete in 2027.

In a statement sent to FoodBev, Sirocco said: "This investment marks a new phase in Sirocco’s journey of over twenty years, during which it has become the leading beer supplier in the UAE, catering to the flourishing tourism and hospitality sectors. It will also support Dubai’s vision to become a top three global city to live, work and invest in by 2033 as part of its D33 strategy."

Georgios Polymenakos, general manager of Sirocco, added: "Dubai now welcomes more than 17 million international visitors each year – more than three times greater than when Sirocco first entered the market. The move to local production will ensure Sirocco’s ability to meet growing tourism demand and provide a fresher beer experience with the same international standards. For our tourism and hospitality customers, local production will provide greater flexibility to local market demands. The brewery will be designed with sustainability at its core, and we will achieve a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of our operations due to a major reduction in sea freight.”

Dubai officials first allowed alcohol consumption and sale around 20 years ago and rules have since been gradually loosened amid a surge in tourism. Last year, the city made it easier for residents to buy alcohol, scrapping a 30% sales tax and a liquor license fee, while sales to Muslims remain restricted.

The latest development comes as UAE capital Abu Dhabi last year granted a license to microbrewery and gastropub Side Hustle Brews – named Craft – to sell beer on tap brewed on the premises.

#Heineken #Sirocco #Dubai #UAE #alcohol