Cost Guide: Renting a Food Van in Dubai
The Growing Food Van Culture in Dubai
Dubai’s food scene is one of the most vibrant in the world — with its mix of local flavors, global cuisines, and mobile dining concepts. Over the past few years, food vans and food trucks have become the new trend in the UAE’s culinary landscape.
But if you’re thinking about launching your own food van business or need one for a special event, the first question that likely comes to mind is:
“What’s the actual food van price in Dubai?”
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about food van rental in Dubai — from pricing and factors that affect cost, to tips for getting the best value and choosing the right partner.
Understanding Food Van Rentals in Dubai
A food van is more than just a vehicle. In Dubai, food van rentals are commonly used for:
- Events and festivals (e.g., Dubai Expo, food fairs, community markets)
- Restaurant promotions or pop-up dining experiences
- Catering companies handling off-site events
- Startups and entrepreneurs testing food concepts without big investment
With the right van, you can operate anywhere in the UAE with full flexibility — whether you’re serving burgers at a beach event or running a dessert van in Downtown Dubai.
Average Food Van Price in Dubai
The food van price depends on several factors such as the van size, rental duration, type of equipment, and customization.
Here’s a quick overview of average rental costs in Dubai:
| Rental Duration | Average Food Van Price (AED) |
| Daily Rental | AED 600 – AED 1,200 |
| Weekly Rental | AED 2,500 – AED 4,000 |
| Monthly Rental | AED 7,000 – AED 12,000 |
| Customized/Long-Term Lease | AED 10,000 – AED 15,000+ |
These rates may vary depending on the food van rental company in Dubai, the vehicle model, and added features like chillers, fryers, ovens, or branding wraps.
Key Factors That Affect Food Van Rental Costs
Before signing a rental agreement, it’s important to understand what influences the food van price in Dubai.
1. Type of Food Van
There are different categories of vans available for rent:
- Standard Catering Vans: Basic storage and chiller space for catering deliveries.
- Cooking Vans: Equipped with gas lines, sinks, fryers, ovens, and exhausts.
- Refrigerated Vans: Designed for cold storage and beverage distribution.
- Display Food Trucks: Custom vans with open windows for street sales or branding.
Naturally, the more complex the setup, the higher the rental cost.
2. Size and Capacity
Vans come in various sizes — from small 1-ton food vans to larger 5-ton mobile kitchens.
A compact van is ideal for beverage or snack operations, while bigger units suit catering or restaurant extensions.
Larger vans require more maintenance and fuel, increasing the rental price.
3. Duration of Rental
The rental duration significantly affects the price.
- Daily rentals are perfect for one-time events.
- Weekly and monthly rentals are more economical for ongoing operations.
Most companies (including Dubai Chiller Trucks) offer discounted rates for long-term contracts.
4. Equipment and Customization
If your business requires specific kitchen equipment — like grills, fryers, fridges, or freezers — the setup cost adds to the rental price.
Additional custom branding (such as wrapping your van with your logo or menu design) can also increase the initial cost, but it’s worth the investment for visibility.
5. Permits and Licensing
Operating a food van in Dubai requires several permits from local authorities, including:
- Dubai Municipality food safety permit
- Trade license for mobile food sales
- Location or event authorization
These permits are not part of the rental fee but are essential if you plan to sell food to the public. Your rental provider can often help with guidance.
Food Van Rental Options – What You Can Expect
At Dubai Chiller Trucks, we provide different types of food vans for rent in Dubai, designed for flexibility and performance.
Catering Vans
Perfect for catering companies that need mobile food delivery for weddings, parties, or corporate events.
Features:
- Temperature-controlled storage
- Hygiene-certified interiors
- Compact kitchen setup
Food Trucks with Cooking Facilities
For entrepreneurs or restaurants that want to operate a full kitchen on wheels.
Features:
- Gas burners, grills, and fryers
- Exhaust systems
- Sinks and drainage
- Power supply for appliances
Refrigerated Food Vans
Ideal for transporting food, drinks, or desserts that must remain chilled.
Features:
- Adjustable temperature settings (-18°C to +5°C)
- Insulated body
- GPS tracking and temperature monitoring
Event & Exhibition Vans
Custom-designed vans for marketing activations, festivals, and trade events.
Features:
- Brandable exteriors
- Service window for public interaction
- Compact food prep area
Each van is regularly serviced, cleaned, and fully licensed for operation in Dubai.
Why Rent Instead of Buy?
Many new food entrepreneurs wonder whether it’s better to rent or purchase a van outright. Here’s why food van rental in Dubai makes better sense for most:
Lower Startup Costs
Buying a van can cost anywhere between AED 150,000–300,000. Renting allows you to start your food venture with minimal investment.
No Maintenance Hassle
Your rental provider handles maintenance, repairs, and servicing — saving you both time and money.
Flexibility
If you’re testing a new food concept or attending seasonal events, rental lets you scale up or down easily.
Trial Before Ownership
You can test your business idea using a rented van before deciding to invest in your own customized vehicle.
Fully Equipped Setup
Reputable providers (like Dubai Chiller Trucks) deliver vans ready to operate — with cooling, storage, and utilities included.
Tips to Get the Best Food Van Price in Dubai
To make the most of your budget and avoid overpaying, consider these expert tips before renting:
- Compare Multiple Vendors: Don’t settle for the first quote you get. Compare services, fleet options, and equipment packages.
- Ask About Hidden Costs: Check for delivery, insurance, or permit-related fees not included in the base price.
- Choose Long-Term Rentals: Longer rentals often have discounted rates and better contract flexibility.
- Inspect the Van: Always visit the provider’s facility to check the van’s cleanliness, cooling performance, and equipment condition.
- Clarify Support Services: Make sure your provider offers 24/7 maintenance or replacement in case of breakdowns.
Why Choose Dubai Chiller Trucks for Food Van Rental in Dubai
At Dubai Chiller Trucks, we offer one of the most affordable and reliable food van rental services in Dubai.
Here’s why we’re trusted by restaurants, caterers, and event organizers across the UAE:
- Modern fleet of 1-ton to 10-ton food vans
- Options for chilled, freezer, or cooking setups
- Affordable food van price with transparent contracts
- 24/7 customer support and vehicle assistance
- Hygienic, food-grade interiors and fully licensed fleet
- Quick delivery anywhere in Dubai or other Emirates
Whether you need a van for a day or a month, we make the process fast, flexible, and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the average cost of food van rental in Dubai?
Typically, food van prices range from AED 600–1,200 per day or AED 7,000–12,000 per month, depending on size and equipment.
2. Can I rent a food van with a driver?
Yes. We provide driver-included packages for catering deliveries and event operations.
3. Are your vans licensed for food service?
All our vehicles are licensed, insured, and compliant with Dubai Municipality hygiene standards.
4. Can I customize the van with my branding?
Yes, we can assist with wrapping and branding for long-term rentals.
5. Do you deliver vans outside Dubai?
Absolutely. We serve all Emirates, including Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman.
Conclusion: Start Your Food Journey the Smart Way
Launching a food business in Dubai has never been easier. With food van rental in Dubai, you can turn your culinary idea into a mobile reality without heavy investment.
Whether you’re a catering company, restaurant owner, or entrepreneur — Dubai Chiller Trucks offers the best combination of affordable food van prices, reliable service, and flexible rental options.
So if you’re ready to bring your food to the streets, contact us today to get started!
Address: International City, Dubai, Cluster K-4, Shop 4
Phone: +971 589137591
Email: info@dubaichillertrucks.com
