Table of Contents
- Overview
- Step 1: Choose the Right Legal Route (MISA & CR)
- Step 2: Prepare Site Layout & Kitchen Design
- Step 3: Secure Municipality Permits & Signage Approvals
- Step 4: Get SFDA Registration & Food Safety Compliance
- Step 5: Manage Imports, Suppliers & Labeling
- Estimated Costs & Timelines for Restaurant Setup in KSA
- Why Choose MajuBiz for Restaurant Setup in Saudi Arabia
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Overview
Saudi Arabia’s F&B industry is expanding rapidly, driven by Vision 2030 initiatives promoting tourism, entertainment, and dining culture.
From Riyadh’s premium dining scene to Jeddah’s café districts, entrepreneurs are investing heavily in new concepts – casual dining, bakeries, cloud kitchens, and specialty coffee outlets.
However, success depends on compliance timing. A clear approval roadmap — from MISA (Ministry of Investment Saudi Arabia) to municipality and SFDA licenses — ensures smooth operations, reduced delays, and on-time openings.
Step 1: Choose the Right Legal Route (MISA & CR)
- Foreign investors must first obtain a MISA license to legally operate in Saudi Arabia.
- Once approved, apply for the Commercial Registration (CR) through the Ministry of Commerce.
- Local entrepreneurs can skip MISA and apply directly for CR.
- Your activity code must reflect your exact concept – restaurant, café, bakery, juice bar, or catering.
Tip: Align your activity selection with your brand type early. Incorrect codes may delay license issuance and tax registration.
Step 2: Prepare Site Layout & Kitchen Design
Submit layout and kitchen drawings that meet Saudi municipal and SFDA hygiene codes:
- Separate clean and dirty zones
- Adequate ventilation and grease trap
- Proper waste management & food flow plan
- Space for storage, dishwashing, and cold roomsa
MajuBiz helps investors work with approved architects and local engineers to ensure the layout meets inspection standards from day one.
Step 3: Secure Municipality Permits & Signage Approvals
After receiving your CR, obtain:
- Municipality operation permit
- Signboard approval
- Staff health certificates and medical tests
- Civil Defense (fire safety) approval for dine-in spaces
Keep standard operating procedures (SOPs) ready for cleaning, allergen handling, and temperature logs, these are often checked during surprise inspections.
Step 4: Get SFDA Registration & Food Safety Compliance
If your restaurant imports food or beverages, register with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA).
This covers:
- Product registration
- Label approval (Arabic label compliance is mandatory)
- Importer/supplier registration
Non-compliant labeling can lead to shipment holds or spoilage losses, MajuBiz pre-screens your documentation to avoid such issues.
Step 5: Manage Imports, Suppliers & Labeling
Identify your supply chain early – ingredients, packaging, and kitchen equipment.
You’ll need:
- Customs HS codes for imported items
- Invoice and origin certificates for customs
- Food control registration for imported consumables
MajuBiz ensures full SFDA and customs compliance, helping avoid costly delays at ports.
Estimated Costs & Timelines for Restaurant Setup in KSA
| Milestone | Key Authority | Typical Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entity & Activity Registration | MISA / MoC | 1–2 weeks | Pick activity matching your restaurant type |
| Layout & Fit-Out | Municipality | 2–4 weeks | Design for inspections from day one |
| Permits & Inspections | Municipality + Civil Defense | 1–2 weeks | Maintain SOPs and records |
| SFDA Registration | SFDA | 2 weeks | Register food imports & suppliers |
| Opening Readiness | All combined | 6–10 weeks total | Include buffer for snag lists & staff onboarding |
Why Choose MajuBiz for Restaurant Setup in Saudi Arabia
With 14+ years of GCC consulting expertise, MajuBiz simplifies complex restaurant setup requirements through:
- End-to-end support: MISA, CR, municipality, SFDA, and visa assistance
- On-ground team in Dammam & Riyadh for local coordination
- Custom-tailored guidance for every F&B concept — from fine dining to cloud kitchens
- Lifetime support for renewals, accounting, and tax compliance
FAQs
Can I start a cloud kitchen instead of a dine-in restaurant?
Is SFDA registration mandatory for cafés?
What are the most common causes of inspection delays?
Can I employ foreign chefs or staff?
How long does it take to open a restaurant in Saudi Arabia?
Conclusion
Starting a restaurant or café in Saudi Arabia can be a rewarding venture when compliance and planning are handled correctly. By following each step, from obtaining MISA and CR to securing SFDA and municipality approvals, entrepreneurs can launch smoothly and confidently.
With MajuBiz’s on-ground expertise, end-to-end guidance, and proven success in Saudi business setups, you can focus on creating memorable dining experiences while we manage the paperwork and approvals that bring your vision to life.
