Obtain a Restaurant License in Dubai

Dubai attracts millions of tourists every year. Given the tourist inflow, there are numerous restaurants in Dubai serving different cuisines. The influx of tourists and their dietary preferences also creates tremendous business opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to open a restaurant in this jurisdiction.

However, to start a restaurant, you must obtain a restaurant license in Dubai. Let us understand the different types of restaurant licenses in Dubai and how to open a restaurant business in Dubai.

Types of Licenses to Choose from to Open a Restaurant in Dubai

If you are interested in starting a restaurant in Dubai, you must obtain an appropriate license from the relevant authorities. Two types of licenses can be availed by entrepreneurs when it comes to starting a restaurant business in Dubai:

1. Professional License

Having a professional license in Dubai enables you to work for multiple types of businesses, including restaurants. You can choose to start a multi-restaurant centre, floating restaurant, or a restaurant management business.

2. Commercial License

If you plan to open a restaurant or a mini store in the Emirate, you can avail yourself of a commercial license in Dubai.

Note: In addition to these licenses, you may need to obtain additional permits depending on the chosen business activity.

Factors to Consider Before Opening a Restaurant Business in Dubai

You need to consider a number of factors when starting a restaurant business; they include:

• Market Research

Research the market to identify the target audience and existing competitors. It will enable you to come up with a business idea for the restaurant.

• Create a Business Plan

Drafting a business plan that outlines your ideas and expenses will help you cater to your target market. A well-structured plan will also assist in budgeting for the new restaurant.

• Avail relevant licenses

Obtaining the required permissions and licenses from authorities such as Dubai Municipality and the Department of Economic Development, Dubai (DED) is necessary to ensure that the business runs smoothly in the future.

• Hiring and Training Staff

To offer high-quality service to clients, hiring staff and providing proper training to them is very important. It enhances the image of the restaurant and ensures customer satisfaction.

• Marketing and Promotional Activities

Creating a marketing plan that uses local advertising and social media channels can help your business grow. Planning promotional activities before opening the restaurant can create excitement among the target audience.

How to open a Restaurant in Dubai?

Here are the steps for opening a restaurant in Dubai:

1. Select Location

When deciding on a location, you must consider specific aspects such as accessibility, visibility, targeted customer base, and supplier availability. In Dubai, you can choose between mainland and free zones to start your business. Each zone offers different benefits, and you must carefully consider your business’s needs before making a decision.

2. Submit Necessary Documents

You will now need to submit certain documents to the authorities to set up a restaurant. These documents include the trade license, Food and Safety permits, and a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) issued by the Dubai Municipality.

3. Pay Requisite Fee

Pay the fees to the relevant authorities in order to get your license. Submitting the fees will help ensure that the business in the Emirate does face any hassle.

4. Fulfil Architectural Requirements

You must fulfil the architectural requirements to open a restaurant in Dubai. Some of these requirements include the kitchen comprising forty per cent of the total restaurant area, having good ventilation and storage facilities, installing basins for washing vessels, and cleaning vegetables/meat, among others.

Avail BSW Assistance

For over eight years, Business Setup Worldwide has been providing business incorporation services to clients. Our business advisors are well-versed in business and legal procedures and can contribute significantly to the success of your business. If you need to obtain a restaurant license in Dubai, reach out to us. We’d be happy to assist you.