How to get a Restaurant License in Dubai: A Comprehensive Guide by Alfa Zone

Dubai’s food and beverage business is progressing, and the place is one of the places we always eat at with the huge variety of food that is available. Being a place every nationality loves, Dubai is becoming a street-food paradise of the Middle East with each nation contributing their cuisine culture hence, food fusion. Nevertheless, first and foremost, it is essential that a person has a full grasp of all the requirements and regulations, for instance, how to acquire a restaurant license in Dubai, in order to even consider the establishment of such a business.

The food and beverage industry of Dubai is growing, and the city is quite popular for so many gastronomic options. Since the city is the global melting pot, it is with the help of the people from all corners of the world who bring with them the traditional avocation of cooking. As a result, Dubai is the perfect destination for the residents of the United Arab Emirates to enjoy Arabian street food which is the city’s unique offshoot of Arabian cuisine. However, to set up a restaurant business in Dubai, it is vitally important to look into the necessary requirements and rules such as how one can get a restaurant license in Dubai.

Starting a restaurant business in Dubai requires entrepreneurs to deal with different legal and procedural stages. Initially, they need to zero in on the right location, which can be in downtown Dubai, in the luxurious Jumeirah district, or in one of the numerous shopping malls of Dubai. The location can either make the restaurant a success or not and it also may restrict the type of people who will be your usual customers and consequently having a different variety of food on the menu. Among other things, the location is the last thing to be completed. The first important procedure is applying for a restaurant license in Dubai that includes several stages such as: Trade Name Registration, Initial Authorization, and gaining a Food and Safety License.

Consequently, it is very important to observe the rules and regulations that the local government the Dubai Municipality has put in place if one does not want to face the closure of the establishment or the fine or even after everything has been painstakingly done, the license remains unable to be renewed. Through the oversight of the Dubai Municipality, which is responsible for the specification of the policies of health and safety of all food establishments, it is important to comply with all of the rules. This entails checking the proper layout of the kitchen, the presence of ventilation, and the training of employees in the area of food safety. In addition, a restaurant is to be licensed in regular inspections so that recurring inspections are passed. The conditions of non-compliance may be imposed with a penalty as heavy as reported to the business.

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Understanding the Food Code for Restaurant Setup in Dubai

To establish a restaurant in Dubai, compliance with the “Food Code” set by the Dubai Municipality’s Food Control Department is mandatory. This code aims to ensure food safety and maintain high standards throughout the food production and consumption process. The code covers various aspects such as food handling, hygiene, and safety practices, and it applies to different food-related businesses, including:

• Restaurants, hotels, and cafes
• Bakeries and butcheries
• Supermarkets and grocery stores
• Food factories and warehouses
• Food catering services and events
• Kiosks and mobile food vendors

Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in severe penalties, including fines and business closures. The Food Code reflects Dubai’s commitment to providing a safe and high-quality food environment, aligning with international standards.

To operate a restaurant business in Dubai, obtaining a Restaurant License in Dubai is crucial. This license is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and is a prerequisite for running any food and beverage establishment. The process of obtaining a restaurant license involves multiple steps, including the selection of a suitable location, submission of a business plan, and obtaining necessary approvals from various authorities such as the Food Safety Department and Dubai Municipality.

Essential Food Safety Measures

Every restaurant in Dubai should appoint a “Person in Charge” (PIC) who is responsible for food safety management. This person should be trained through specialized training to ensure his/her competence in the restaurant’s food safety operations. In addition, some particular permits might be needed besides the trade license according to the type of business. Such permits are:

• Vehicle Permit: This is a must for transporting food.
• Food Truck License: This is absolutely necessary for operating a food truck in Dubai.
• Food Consignment Release License: This document is needed for importing or exporting food products.

These licenses are the basis for following the 2013 Dubai Food Code, which sets down the requirements for food import and export.

Also Read: 50 Profitable Business Ideas in Dubai, UAE

Documents Required to Start a Restaurant Business in Dubai

There are several processes involved in opening a restaurant in Dubai, and obtaining the proper documentation is crucial for both operational and legal compliance. It doesn’t matter if you’re building a tiny café or an exclusive fine dining establishment—you need to be sure that all the required paperwork is in order to get a restaurant license in Dubai.

1. Trade License for Restaurants in Dubai

The Trade License for Restaurants in Dubai is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED). This license defines the nature of your business activity, in this case, operating a restaurant or food establishment. Getting a trade license is the first, primary, and the most fundamental step in setting up your business in the city.

To gain this license, you will be required to present the restaurant’s construction plans to the Food Control Department so that they can be approved. The purpose of this is to see that your establishment is built in a manner that meets all health, safety, and hygiene requirements, as stated by the authorities. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in a postponement or denial of your application.

Some of the major requirements that should be provided as part of the Trade License are as follows:

• Detail restaurant blueprints are necessary: They should provide information on seating arrangements, kitchen layout, storage spaces, ventilation systems, and waste management systems in the restaurant.
• Zoning laws compliant: The site of your restaurant will be aligned with the area’s zoning rules you wish to operate in. Some areas may restrict certain businesses due to more stringent regulations.

After your plans are approved by the Department of Economic Development and you have received this license your restaurant is officially allowed to operate in Dubai.

2. Food License

The second crucial permit needed by you is Food License which is provided by the Food Safety Department of Dubai Municipality. This permission gives your eateries, bars, and clubs the legal freedom to serve meals and drinks to the public and means that your hangout spot is in agreement with the strict food safety guidelines set forth by the city.

In order to get a food license, you are supposed to provide the following:

• The respective trade license for the foodstuff establishment should be sponsored by the Food Safety department through a ‘No Objection Certificate’ (NOC). This is a No Objection Certificate confirming that your restaurant complies with the food safety requirements that are necessary.
• Approvals from the Dubai Municipality and other competent authorities. These approvals are typically given after the examinations of your kitchen and storage locations to ensure that the food is prepared, stored and served under the clean conditions of the environment.

The food license period also includes the inspection of your restaurant on a regular basis in order to make sure that it still complies with the necessary health and safety conditions. This measure allows restaurants to keep up with the high standards of cleanliness, preparation, and handling of food. The penalizing of these bands is mandatory for all the bands, any violations are to be paid by the promoters or the closing of the establishment in the case of a serious and dangerous situation.

Other Licenses and Considerations

Apart from the trade and food licences there are other specific licences and permits, which you might require depending on services or products provided by your restaurant. These include also additional licences that make sure your restaurant is compliant with the laws set in Dubai.

Liquor License

If you intend to offer alcohol at your restaurant, you must apply for a liquor license. Dubai has strict restrictions regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol, and this license allows your facility to provide booze to customers. The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) generally issues liquor licenses, which are often awarded only to hotels, fine dining restaurants, and other establishments.

There are several important conditions regarding the sale of alcohol in Dubai:

• 30% tax on alcohol sales: Restaurants that sell alcoholic beverages are subject to a 30% tax on the sale of alcohol.
• Importing and selling fees: Additional fees apply for importing and selling liquor, which must be factored into your business plan.

It’s worth noting that not all restaurants are qualified to apply for a liquor license. Typically, only luxury restaurants in designated areas, such as those in hotels, are permitted to offer alcohol. Furthermore, establishments that have a liquor license must guarantee that they are not positioned too close to schools or places of worship.

Pork Permit

If your restaurant intends to serve pork or pork-based dishes, you must apply for a pork Permit. For religious reasons, Dubai has severe laws in place surrounding the sale and handling of pork, and this permission ensures that your restaurant follows the proper guidelines.

To receive a pork permit, your restaurant must demonstrate the following:

• Separate storage: To avoid contamination, pork products are kept apart from other food items in a specially dedicated space.
• Clearly labeled dishes: To ensure that patrons are aware that a meal contains pork, it should be made clear on the menu.
• Separate preparation area: To prevent cross-contamination with other foods, hog products are handled exclusively in a separate kitchen or preparation room.

You will be allowed to lawfully serve pork at your restaurant after the permission is authorized. To guarantee ongoing adherence to Dubai Municipality regulations, the permit also entails recurring inspections.

Tourism License (If Applicable)

In Restaurant Business in Dubai, apart from Restaurant License in Dubai you might also need to submit an application for a tourism license from the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) if your restaurant is housed in a hotel or serves a lot of tourists. With the help of this license, your restaurant will be able to collaborate and take part in tourism-related events, promotions, and partnerships, which will draw in more foreign patrons.

Restaurants situated in Dubai’s main tourist destinations, such Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, or Jumeirah Beach, stand to gain the most from this license. Your restaurant can benefit from Dubai’s burgeoning tourism sector by having a tourism license, particularly during significant occasions like Expo 2020 or the Dubai Shopping Festival.

Costs and Timeline for Obtaining a Restaurant License in Dubai

It takes time and money to get the several licenses needed to start a restaurant in Dubai. Depending on the complexities of your business plan, the quantity of licenses you require, and whether all of the necessary documentation is in place, the procedure normally takes four to six weeks.

Here’s a rough estimate of the costs involved in securing a restaurant license in Dubai:

• Trade License: AED 10,000 – AED 15,000 (varies based on restaurant size and location)
• Food License: AED 10,000 – AED 12,000
• Liquor License (if applicable): AED 30,000 – AED 50,000
• Shisha Permit (if applicable): AED 3,000 – AED 5,000
• Pork Permit (if applicable): AED 1,000 – AED 3,000
• Tourism License (if applicable): AED 5,000 – AED 10,000

The total cost may also increase due to other ancillary expenses including application processing fees, approvals for the plan, and any necessary upgrades to meet safety regulations.

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Tips to Establish a Successful Restaurant in Dubai

Opening a restaurant in Dubai is a thrilling but difficult job. The city’s culinary sector is fiercely competitive with national and international competitors fighting for the business of a multicultural and diversified clientele. Here are some professional advice from Alfa Zone to help you get the required restaurant license in Dubai and develop a successful business in this cutthroat market.

1. Conduct Thorough Research

The foundation of any successful restaurant business is research. Begin by thoroughly examining your rivals and the market as a whole. Examine your target audience’s preferences and demographics. Which cuisine styles are popular? Which dining establishments in Dubai appeal to people? You may create a menu that appeals to your audience by taking these factors into consideration.

Additionally, you will save time and work in the long run by researching regulatory needs, such as the restaurant license in Dubai, labor regulations, and other legalities. The restaurant business in Dubai is subject to strict government regulation, so being ready is crucial to avoiding legal issues.

2. Identify Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Finding what makes your restaurant unique is essential in a busy market like Dubai. This could involve providing distinctive menu items, specialties, outstanding customer service, or even affordable prices. Your restaurant will stand out from the competitors because to its Unique Selling Proposition (USP).

In addition to drawing in your target market, a compelling USP promotes brand loyalty. Whether your restaurant offers a blend of different cuisines, uses organic and local products, or takes an inventive approach to traditional meals, make sure it has a compelling backstory that makes it stand out.

3. Test Your Concepts

It’s a good idea to test your concepts with prospective clients before opening your business in Dubai. Take part in food festivals, erect pop-up shops, or arrange private tastings to obtain insightful feedback. Dubai has a lot of food events where you may present your food and find out who is interested.

By putting your notion to the test, you can adjust your products in response to feedback and customer preferences. Additionally, it allows you to make necessary adjustments to your price, presentation, and service before committing entirely to a restaurant model. Be adaptable and prepared to change your ways in order to satisfy the demands of the market.

4. Build a Strong Online Presence

Success in the digital age requires having a strong online presence. Utilize social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to generate excitement about your restaurant. To develop a devoted following of customers, publish top-notch pictures of your food, offer behind-the-scenes glimpses, and interact with your followers. Restaurants can gain more exposure by using SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and a well-designed website, as many patrons find restaurants through online searches.

You may also take use of the power of food delivery applications with the aid of a well-executed digital marketing plan. In Dubai, a lot of diners use apps like Deliveroo, Talabat, and Zomato to locate and place orders from nearby restaurants. For increased visibility, make sure your restaurant is listed and optimized on these platforms.

Steps to Set Up a Restaurant in Dubai/ Get a Restaurant License in Dubai

After you’ve finished your study and tested your ideas, it’s time to start thinking through the specifics of opening your business. This is a comprehensive guide that will help you through every stage of the procedure, including getting the required restaurant license in Dubai.

1. Choose a Strategic Location

Choosing the perfect location is essential to the success of your business. Choosing to open your restaurant in a free zone or on the mainland will be among your first choices. Every choice has an own set of rules, benefits, and drawbacks.

• Mainland: Provides access to a larger pool of potential clients, but may also entail additional legal requirements and higher leasing prices.
• Free Zones: Offer business-friendly settings with reduced regulations, tax advantages, and favorable conditions; but, your clientele may be limited.

Verify if the area has a strong potential for foot traffic and fits your target market.

2. Create a Detailed Business Plan

A well-structured business plan is a blueprint for your restaurant’s success. This should include:

• SWOT analysis: Understand your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.
• Target market: Define your target audience in terms of demographics and dining preferences.
• Financial projections: Include startup costs, revenue estimates, and break-even analysis.
• Contingency plan: Prepare for potential challenges, such as market fluctuations or unforeseen costs.

A comprehensive business plan not only helps in securing investments and loans but also serves as a roadmap to guide your business strategy.

3. Prepare Required Documentation

There are various required documents that must be submitted in order to open a restaurant in Dubai. Among them are:

• Food Safety License: A document issued by Dubai Municipality’s Food Safety Department certifying to your restaurant complies to food safety regulations.
• Trade License: A document that the Department of Economic Development (DED) issues allowing you to operate a restaurant.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Foodstuff Establishment: To open a restaurant, you must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Foodstuff Establishment.
• Special Permits (if applicable): You might require extra permits, such a liquor license or a shisha permit, depending on the concept of your business.

Getting your restaurant license in Dubai can be obtained faster if every document is submitted on time and accurately.

4. Pay the Restaurant License Cost in Dubai

The price of getting a restaurant license in Dubai can change based on a number of factors, including the restaurant’s size, location, and services provided. The standard license typically costs between AED 10,000 and AED 16,000 in total. However, there will be other expenses, such as:

• Local sponsor fee: If you are establishing on the mainland, it is roughly AED 15,000 annually.
• Labor and immigration registration: This can cost up to AED 9,000.
• Restaurant premises rent: Depending on the location, rental prices can vary significantly; they can start at AED 60,000 per year and go up depending on the size and features of the property.

To avoid surprises down the road, be sure to account for these expenses in your financial planning.

5. Meet Architectural Requirements

The Dubai Municipality has established strict safety and architectural requirements that your restaurant must meet. Among these prerequisites are:

• Minimum kitchen area: The kitchen must be at least 300 to 380 square feet.
• Adequate ventilation: To guarantee a safe cooking environment, proper chimney location and ventilation are essential.
• Washable and fireproof surfaces: In order to comply with health and safety standards, floors, walls, and ceilings must be both washable and fireproof.
• Separate areas: To avoid cross-contamination, separate spaces must be used for food preparation, storage, and utensil washing.
• Drainage systems: Proper drainage and waste disposal systems must be installed.

Meeting these architectural standards is a key step in obtaining your restaurant license and passing inspections.

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Also Read: How to Set Up a Restaurant Business in Dubai: A Comprehensive Guide

Why Choose Alfazone to Obtain a Restaurant License in Dubai?

Obtaining a restaurant license in Dubai can be difficult, particularly for those who are unfamiliar with the process. Our area of expertise at Alfa Zone is assisting investors and business owners in opening restaurants in Dubai. Our professionals provide comprehensive assistance, covering everything from obtaining restaurant license to creating company strategies and guaranteeing adherence to regional laws.

We offer a smooth and trouble-free experience so you can concentrate on developing your restaurant and become successful in Dubai’s dynamic food industry. Alfa Zone offers the knowledge and expertise to help you every step of the way whether you’re opening a food truck, casual restaurant, or fine dining establishment.

Get in touch with Alfa Zone right now to start your Dubai restaurant journey!

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FAQs on How to Get a Restaurant License in Dubai in 2024

For more information, visit Alfa Zone.

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