Dubai, known for its infrastructure, economy, job facilities, tourism and more is also hyped for its varied restaurant availability. From local cuisines to high-ending dining spots and cafes, Dubai is one such city where you can explore a wide range of cuisines. Thanks to the diverse population and the ever-growing tourism industry for all this.
So, if you are deciding to start a restaurant business setup in Dubai, yes that will be a good decision. But there are a few crucial factors to be sorted out before you start the restaurant. One such important step is, for running a restaurant in Dubai you must register your business with the Department of Economic Development (DED) and receive the necessary permits and licenses to operate legally. Therefore, a restaurant license is a must in Dubai to make sure that establishments abide the health and safety regulations and local business laws.
Therefore, without a proper license, you might face the risk of facing fines, closure, or even legal action at some end. Compared to other emirates in the UAE, Dubai has quite a cheaper restaurant license cost. The only thing to keep in mind is to meet the essential requirements that are set by authorities.
This might be a little bit hectic to go through the process. So, it is suggested to get help from business consultants. There are many business setups in Dubai such as Damaar.
With the help of one of the top growing business consultants, Damaar, in this blog “A Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Restaurant License in Dubai: Everything You Need to Know” we will discuss in detail the steps one has to follow to get a restaurant license in Dubai.
Types of restaurant license in Dubai
There are few specific licenses to obtain before opening a restaurant in Dubai.
Let’s look into the main types:
Primary License
- Trade License
Trade License is the basic one that is essential to start any business in Dubai. It is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or a free zone authority.
- Food Establishment License
This license is provided by Dubai’s Municipality Food Safety Department. This license compiles that the restaurant follows health and safety regulations.
Other License Requirements
- Alcohol License (if needed)
If your restaurant is planning to add alcohol to the menu, you will need a separate alcohol license. Depending on what type of alcohol you are gonna serve, the requirements of this license will go according to that.
- Food Truck License
You need a special license, if you are planning to start a food truck in Dubai. You have met certain requirements for gaining this license. Such as having a mobile kitchen that will meet both hygiene and safety standards.
- Takeaway License
If you are planning to start a takeout business or delivery, this license is required. The license makes sure that your restaurant meets certain health and safety standards for food preparation and packaging. There will be regulations related to food delivery services as well.
- Sit-Down Restaurant License
A sit-down restaurant license is essential if your restaurant provides dine-in facilities. This license gives you the permit to operate a restaurant with tables and chairs, where customers can visit the restaurant and dine in.
To know more about the license details, contact business consultants groups like Damaar.
Documents required to start a restaurant in Dubai
You need to fulfil certain requirements and have the listed documents to start a restaurant business in Dubai:
- Trade name registration certificate
- Passport copies of the business owners and managers
- Visas copies
- No Objection Certificate (NOC), if required
- Trade license application form
- Food safety and hygiene documents
- Health certificates
- Bank statements
- Tenancy contract
- Food Establishment license application form (Dubai Municipality)
Guide for the set-up of a restaurant in Dubai
Once your documents are set, you can now proceed with the application process for the restaurant in Dubai. Let’s look into it:
- Fix a Business Location
There are two locations you can choose from in Dubai:
Mainland: For running a business anywhere in Dubai, register wth the Department of Economic Develoment (DED).
Free Zone: For running a business in a free zone, register for the specific Free Zone Authority.
- Pick a legal structure
Choose whether you want your business will be a sole proprietorship, limited liability company (LLC), or other suitable option. The popular option is Mainland.
- Register Restaurant Name
Fix an unique restaurant name for your restaurant. Make sure the trade name goes with the Dubai’s naming guidelines, such as should not refer to any religious or political things.
- Secure a Commercial Space
Choose a right physical location fro your restaurant that secures Dubai’s Municipality health and safety regulations. Make a contract (Ejari) registered and sign the lease for the restaurant space.
- Submit Restaurant License Application
Now, complete all the required application forms by attaching all supporting documents. Later, submit your application to the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the Free zone authority.
- Pay the license amount
After submitting your application, promptly pay the required fees for your restaurant license, which vary based on whether it’s a Mainland or Free Zone license.
- Receive Food Safety and Health Approvals from Dubai
Submit your restaurant’s detailed layout plans to Dubai Municipality for approval, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations, including hygiene, ventilation, and waste management.
- Additional Permits (if needed)
Post-approval, obtain a food safety permit following inspections. If serving alcohol, secure a liquor license from Dubai Police and any other necessary permits for operations.
- Hire Employees
Hire employees by applying for work permits and residence visas through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs.
- Obtain the Final Restaurant License
Once all documentation is approved and fees are paid, receive your restaurant license, allowing you to legally operate your establishment in Dubai.
How Damaar can help
With Dubai’s growing population; growing appetite, this will be the right time to start a restaurant business setup in UAE. To make your process easier, Damaar’s experts can help you in each steps until you get the license.