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Food waste represents a growing global challenge with far-reaching economic, environmental, and social consequences. This study investigates the influence of habitual behaviors and cultural diversity on food waste among consumers in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), a city distinguished by its multicultural population and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Using a quantitative design, data were collected from 397 participants representing multiple nationalities through a multistage cluster sampling approach. The findings revealed that food waste behavior is significantly shaped by habitual tendencies and demographic factors, particularly gender and cultural background. Gender-based analysis showed that women tend to demonstrate more conscientious behaviors in portion control and meal planning, while men were more likely to engage in wasteful practices. The results also highlighted the profound role of cultural diversity in shaping attitudes and habits related to food consumption and disposal, with varying levels of awareness and restraint observed among different cultural groups. The study also highlights that food waste is often a consequence of ingrained habits rather than deliberate negligence. To better explain these dynamics, a comprehensive conceptual model was developed by integrating the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), Gender Schema Theory (GST), and the Comprehensive Model of Environmental Behavior (CMEB). This framework captured the interaction between individual, social, and cultural factors influencing food waste behavior. The findings emphasized the need for culturally tailored strategies that go beyond general awareness campaigns. Targeted interventions, such as community-specific educational programs, culturally adapted public messaging, and gender-sensitive policies, are recommended to effectively reduce food waste in Dubai’s diverse urban setting. Overall, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how habits and cultural norms influence food waste behavior in multicultural societies. It offers practical insights for policymakers and businesses seeking to design behaviorally informed, culturally inclusive strategies to promote sustainable consumption.