Get Restaurant license in Dubai, UAE

Why Do You Need a Restaurant License in UAE?

A restaurant license is a legal requirement for any food business in the UAE. It gives you the approval to prepare, serve, and sell food to the public while following all local safety and hygiene rules. Operating without a valid license can lead to penalties or even closure by the authorities, so understanding the restaurant license cost in Dubai is an important part of your planning.

The main regulatory bodies involved in issuing this license are the Department of Economic Development (DED) and the Dubai Municipality or equivalent local authorities in other Emirates. A licensed restaurant demonstrates compliance with food safety standards and builds customer trust. Similarly, a license required to open a cafe follows similar regulations to ensure public health and safety.

Types of Restaurant License in Dubai

Depending on your business model, you can apply for different types of restaurant licenses in Dubai.

• Restaurant and Coffee Shops License
• Floating Restaurant License
• Mini Store and Restaurant License
• Fast Food License
• Bar and Restaurant Licence

Each license type has specific permissions based on the services you offer. For instance, if your restaurant will serve alcohol, you’ll require additional approvals. Similarly, floating restaurants or mobile food services may need separate permits and inspections.

Licenses and Permits Required to Open Restaurant in Dubai

Here's a list of licenses required to open restaurant in Dubai, along with the licenses and permits cost and the essential requirements to legally operate your food establishment.  

Trade License

Issued by the DED or Free Zone Authority depending on your chosen location. A license required for opening a restaurant or cafe, ensuring business legitimacy.

Food Safety License

Issued by the relevant municipality (e.g., Dubai Municipality), this license required for restaurant confirms that the restaurant meets food hygiene and safety standards to protect public health.

Fire Safety Certificate

Provided by the Civil Defence, this fire license for restaurants ensures your establishment complies with fire safety regulations, including exits, extinguishers, and alarms.

Signboard Permit

To legally display your restaurant name and branding on the premises, you’ll need a license to open a restaurant and comply with local signage laws.

Manager License for Restaurant

This license confirms that your restaurant manager is properly trained in food safety and hygiene. It’s one of the requirements you must meet when you open a restaurant in Dubai and want to run your operations smoothly and legally. 

Process to Apply for a Restaurant License

Here’s how to apply for a license to open a restaurant in the UAE, including the key steps and documentation required for a successful application:

Choose the Business Activity

Start by deciding what type of restaurant you want to open—whether it’s a dine-in establishment, fast food outlet, café, bar, or one that offers a specific cuisine. Your choice will determine the licensing category you fall under and the type of permits you’ll need.

Select a Business Location

Next, choose whether you want to set up in a mainland area or within a free zone. Each option comes with its own set of regulations, benefits, and setup procedures. Your choice here can influence your business structure and operational flexibility.

Reserve Your Trade Name

Register your restaurant’s trade name with the Department of Economic Development (DED) if you’re setting up in the mainland, or through the relevant free zone authority. Make sure the name reflects your brand and follows UAE naming guidelines. 

This step is essential for getting the licenses you need to open restaurant in Dubai and ensures your business stays fully compliant with local rules.

Apply for Initial Approval

Submit your restaurant business plan along with personal identification documents and a No Objection Certificate (NOC), if required. This preliminary approval shows that the authorities have no objections to your business idea and allows you to proceed with the setup. It’s a critical step in obtaining the license to open a restaurant and moving forward with the official registration process.

Secure a Suitable Premises

Find a physical location for your restaurant and sign a tenancy contract. Ensure that the layout of your space complies with Dubai’s food code, hygiene requirements, and fire safety regulations to avoid delays in approvals. 

Obtain Approvals from the Municipality

Present your kitchen design, layout plan, and equipment details to the Dubai Municipality or the respective authority in your chosen jurisdiction. These approvals are crucial to ensure that your restaurant follows all health and food preparation standards.

Finalize and Submit All Documents

Once you've secured all necessary approvals and completed paperwork, submit the full application to obtain your restaurant business license. This includes your trade license, food license, and any special permits applicable to your restaurant type.

Start Operations

After receiving your license, you can begin hiring staff, purchasing kitchen equipment, and preparing your restaurant for launch. Once everything is in place, you’re ready to officially open your doors to the public.

Fire Safety and Hygiene Approvals

In addition to the business and food permits, obtaining fire safety and hygiene certifications is an essential part of the licence required for restaurant operations in the UAE.

• Fire License for Restaurant: Issued by the Civil Defence, this license confirms that your restaurant follows all fire safety regulations. It includes compliance with emergency exits, fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and proper kitchen ventilation systems. Understanding the fire license for restaurant cost is important, as it can vary depending on the restaurant's size, equipment, and layout.
• Hygiene Approval: Dubai Municipality or the relevant local authority conducts hygiene inspections to ensure your restaurant complies with food safety standards, covering food storage, preparation, and overall cleanliness protocol. 

Start Your Restaurant with Dhanguard 

Starting a food business in UAE becomes much easier when you understand the licensing steps and follow them correctly. With the right approvals, you can open restaurant in Dubai confidently and operate without interruptions. Dhanguard supports you at every stage, from calculating the restaurant license cost in Dubai to completing all applications on time. With our help, you can launch your restaurant smoothly and focus on growing your brand.

Connect with Dhanguard today for quick license applications and personalized guidance.