Table of Contents
- Overview: The Dubai F&B Landscape
- Step 1: Trade Name & Business Activity
- Step 2: Location & Layout Planning (As per Dubai Food Code)
- Step 3: Licenses and Approvals Required
- Step 4: Cost Estimates & Typical Timelines
- Step 5: Post-Launch Compliance Checklist
- FAQs on Restaurant & Cafeteria Licensing in Dubai
- Conclusion
Overview: The Dubai F&B Landscape
Dubai’s restaurant scene is one of the fastest-growing in the region, but food business approvals still follow a clear sequence of permits and inspections. When you plan your menu, kitchen layout, and license applications in parallel, you save weeks of processing time.
This guide covers the step-by-step path – from trade name registration to soft opening-helping you avoid costly rework and ensure Food Code compliance from day one.
Step 1: Trade Name & Business Activity
Begin by selecting a trade name and business activity that clearly define your concept – for example:
- Restaurant (dine-in service with kitchen)
- Cafeteria (quick service with limited menu)
- Cloud/Delivery Kitchen (online orders only)
The activity you choose determines which department approves your application and what layout standards apply.
Step 2: Location & Layout Planning (As per Dubai Food Code)
Before leasing a space, get your floor plan pre-approved by Dubai Municipality (Food Safety Department). The layout must meet the Dubai Food Code requirements, including:
- Dedicated hand-wash sinks in prep and service zones
- Proper food flow: receiving → storage → preparation → service
- Adequate ventilation and exhaust system
- Grease trap and pest-proofing installations
- Non-absorbent, easy-to-clean floor and wall surfaces
Early layout approval reduces rejections during final inspection. Ensure your fit-out contractor is familiar with the Food Code.
Step 3: Licenses and Approvals Required
Launching a restaurant in Dubai involves several key approvals:
| Approval Type | Issuing Authority | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Trade License | Dubai Economy & Tourism (DET) | Approved trade name, lease agreement, activity code |
| Food Control Approval | Dubai Municipality | Food Code layout, grease trap design, pest control plan |
| Signage Permit | Dubai Municipality | Signboard content & placement approval |
| Delivery Kitchen Permit (if applicable) | DM / DED | Ventilation and storage compliance for ghost kitchens |
Keep as-built drawings ready for final inspection before receiving your Food License.
Step 4: Cost Estimates & Typical Timelines
Your budget will depend on site size, equipment, and approvals. Key cost heads include:
- Trade license and activity fees
- Tenancy contract (Ejari) and fit-out costs
- Utility deposits and kitchen equipment
- Municipality and inspection fees
Average Timeline: 4–8 weeks for complete setup, depending on site readiness and inspection schedule. Always add contingency for snag lists and final approvals.
Step 5: Post-Launch Compliance Checklist
Once your restaurant is operational, continuous compliance is mandatory:
- Staff medical fitness and food handler training
- Daily temperature and cleaning logs
- Allergen and food labeling standards as per Dubai Food Code
- Routine pest control & waste disposal records
- Annual license renewals and equipment maintenance
Create a Compliance Calendar to track all renewal dates and municipality inspections.
FAQs
1. What’s the fastest way to open a small cafeteria in Dubai?
Do I need separate approvals for a delivery-only kitchen?
3. Can I start with a kiosk and upgrade to a restaurant later?
4. How much should I budget for approvals and permits?
5. What causes inspection delays in Dubai?
Conclusion
Opening a restaurant in Dubai can be smooth and profitable – when you follow the Food Code and approval process from the start. From trade name to final inspection, MajuBiz handles your licensing, layout review, and compliance end-to-end.
