Starting a Restaurant in Dubai - License Cost & Approvals

Are you dreaming of starting your own restaurant in Dubai? Whether you're a resident or a foreigner, you might feel like the process is a bit complex. But guess what? It doesn’t have to be! Dubai is a land of endless opportunities, especially in the food industry, with its booming market and diverse customer base.

In this article, we’ll walk you through every step - from securing the right trade licenses to meeting Dubai Municipality’s food safety standards. Also, you will learn about the restaurant license cost and other expense. By the end, you’ll be ready to turn your dream into reality and open your restaurant in Dubai Mainland. Excited to get started? Let’s dive in!

Note: You can also open a restaurant in a free zone. There are three free zones where restaurants are allowed, but keep in mind that free zone businesses can’t operate in the mainland. For this guide, we’re focusing on setting up a restaurant in Dubai mainland.

Restaurant License Cost

The cost of a restaurant trade license in Dubai typically ranges between 14,000 to 18,000 AED, but it can vary based on several factors. One key factor is the 5% market fee calculated on the annual lease value of your restaurant space.

Also, the license cost depends on the activities you want to include. For instance, if you wish to add food delivery services to your license, it's possible to include that, but it may increase the overall cost. Tailoring your license to match your business needs ensures you can operate seamlessly while maximizing opportunities.

Step 1: Get a Trade License from DED

The first step to opening a restaurant in Dubai is getting a trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED). You don't need the full trade license right away. You can start with just the trade name registration and initial approval. This will allow you to proceed with the next steps.

To know more about how to get the trade license in Dubai, read our article on how to setup a company in Dubai. The process is similar for all establishment.

Need help with trade license?

At CSPzone, we handle everything from securing your trade license to food safety approvals. Focus on your dream, and let us take care of the rest. Contact us today to get started!

Step 2: Find a Location and Get a Lease Agreement

Once you have the initial approval from DED, you need to find a location for your restaurant. If you already have a spot in mind, get a lease agreement for the premises. With your initial approval and lease agreement in hand, you can move on to the next step.

Step 3: Get External Approvals from Authorities

Before you start any construction or renovation, you’ll need external approvals from the following authorities:

Dubai Municipality:

Approval from the Public Health Department.

Food Control Department:

Submit your proposed kitchen design and equipment details. You need to work with a registered engineering office to create three copies of the layout for submission.

Dubai Civil Defence:

You’ll also need safety approval from the Civil Defence Department to ensure your restaurant meets fire safety standards.

Step 4: Get Your Food License from Dubai Municipality

To serve food in your restaurant, you need a food license from Dubai Municipality’s Food Control Department. The documents you’ll need for this include:

• Trade license or initial approval
• Restaurant layout plan with clear details like:
  • Entry and exit points
  • Kitchen area
  • Food storage areas
  • Ventilation system
  • Placement of food equipment
• Approval from the Planning Department (if the restaurant isn’t inside a mall)

Step 5: Follow Dubai Municipality Guidelines

Dubai Municipality has specific guidelines for restaurants. Here’s a simplified version:

• The walls, floors, and ceilings should be fire-resistant, easy to clean, and light in color without any cracks.
• There must be proper lighting and good ventilation throughout the restaurant.
• The kitchen area should be at least 300 square feet or 40% of the total restaurant size, whichever is bigger.
• If using a tandoor, the kitchen space must be at least 380 square feet.
• There should be separate storage spaces for frozen food items.
• Both hot and cold water systems need to be installed.

These guidelines are essential for safety, if you fail to meet them then it will not get approved.

Step 6: Dubai Civil Defence Approval

The Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) is responsible for ensuring that buildings, including restaurants, meet fire safety standards. You’ll need approval from DCD to proceed with opening your restaurant.

Summary of Documents Required for Restaurant Business in Dubai

Here’s a quick recap of the documents you’ll need:

1. Trade name registration and initial approval from DED
2. Lease agreement for the restaurant premises
3. Restaurant layout plan
4. Approvals from Dubai Municipality, Food Control Department, and Civil Defence
5. Certificates from the Environment, Health, and Safety Department
6. Trade License
7. Passport, visa and Emirates ID

Final Step: Get All Approvals and Start Hiring

Once you have all the approvals from DED, Dubai Municipality, Food Control, and Civil Defence, you're ready to hire staff and begin operations.

Cost Breakdown for Opening a Restaurant

Setting up a restaurant in Dubai will have several costs. The trade license from DED will cost around AED 18000. On top of that, professional service fees are required for handling the process, and there are extra charges for external approvals from Dubai Municipality, Food Control, and Civil Defence.

Other costs include visa processing fees for staff, owner visa if you're a foreigner, and formalities like getting an establishment card. The cost of leasing a restaurant unit will depend on the location and size of the premises.

Need Help?

At CSPzone, we have 15 years of experience helping clients open restaurants in Dubai. We handle all the paperwork and guide you through the entire process. Opening a restaurant can be complicated, but we’re here to make it easy for you. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on making your restaurant a success.