How to open a restaurant business in Dubai? 

Food is a fundamental necessity for all living beings. With a direct influence on one’s health, there are strict regulations in place to monitor hygiene and health standards. It is crucial to obtain approvals from the relevant food and safety departments by adhering to regulations for food preparation and distribution.

Navigating the process of starting a restaurant business in Dubai can be daunting, especially for inexperienced expats and entrepreneurs. However, with the professional guidance and support of Kiltons, you can confidently complete all the necessary procedures and kickstart your venture in no time. Let us help you make your culinary dreams come true!

Let’s have a look at the steps involved to open a restaurant business in Dubai.

1. Select the Location

Choosing the right location is crucial when starting a restaurant business in Dubai. While every area in Dubai presents excellent growth prospects, the location undoubtedly influences your early return on investment.

Our team will assist you in selecting the ideal location for your restaurant in Dubai or any other region in the UAE. Instead of offering shallow advice, our experienced executives will provide you with a thorough report and a range of options tailored to your specific restaurant plans in the area.

2. Food and Trading License in Dubai

To open a restaurant business in Dubai, it is necessary to obtain the food and restaurant license. This license is issued by the Department of Tourism and Commercial Marketing (DTCM) in collaboration with the Department of Food and Safety. 

To apply for the license, you need to submit the application in the required format along with the necessary documents. Additionally, the Department of Economic Development (DED) will issue the Trade License for commencing the business activity in Dubai. The total cost for both licenses is approximately AED 50k.

3. Estimate the Budget Based on the Plan

To ensure a successful venture, it is imperative to develop a comprehensive plan that encompasses the budgetary aspects. This includes expenses associated with obtaining a Restaurant License in Dubai, operational costs, and other related expenditures. Our team of expert professionals can provide valuable assistance in formulating a well-crafted restaurant business plan specifically tailored to Dubai.

The recent decision made by visionary leadership to amend the sponsorship requirement has proven advantageous for expatriates. Thus, it is no longer necessary for a local Emirati sponsor to establish a restaurant business in Dubai. As an expatriate, you have the opportunity to fully own 100% of the shares in your restaurant entity.

4. Commence Operation of the Restaurant in Dubai

After obtaining the necessary food and trading license, you can commence the operation of your restaurant. It is imperative to devise a foolproof plan to ensure the success of your business. The restaurant industry in Dubai holds tremendous potential in shaping you into a triumphant entrepreneur.

Architectural Prerequisites for Establishing a New Restaurant Business in Dubai

The federal authority in Dubai has specific regulations concerning the construction of the restaurant and its associated area. It is crucial to carefully consider the dimensions, specifications, and restrictions during the design and construction process. Failure to do so may result in the rejection of your application or require corrective measures before the commencement of operations.

• – The kitchen should occupy a minimum of 40% of the restaurant’s total area.
• – It is crucial to ensure proper ventilation that does not disturb customers with smoke.
• – The chimney should be of adequate height.
• – The restaurant must have essential storage facilities, including deep freeze equipment and a refrigerator.
• – A dedicated area for cleaning food items and utensils is mandatory, with separate sections for vegetarian and non-vegetarian preparation.
• – The construction should be fireproof.
• – The drainage pipe must meet specific dimensions and construction requirements.

Documents Required for Starting a Restaurant in Dubai

To start a restaurant business in Dubai, you need two types of documents: essential and optional. Let’s take a closer look at each:

Essential documents for setting up a restaurant business in Dubai include:

– Food License

– Trading License

– Approval from relevant authorities

– NOC from Municipality

Additionally, there are optional documents that you can obtain based on your specific requirements:

– Liquor Permit

– Ramadan Permit

– Food Delivery Permit

– Pork Permit

By ensuring you have the necessary documents and permits, you can smoothly navigate the process of starting your restaurant business in Dubai.

Why PRO Consultancy UAE for Restaurant Business Setup in Dubai?

For expatriates seeking to establish a business in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, PRO Consultancy Business Setup Services has consistently been the top choice. With over two decades of experience, we have played a crucial role in turning the business aspirations of numerous expatriates and residents into reality. By partnering with us to set up your business entity in Dubai, you are making an impeccable decision that will unlock a world of opportunities for you. Our team of PRO Consultancy professionals will expertly guide you through all the necessary official procedures for setting up a restaurant business and obtaining a restaurant license in Dubai. We warmly invite you to share your business dreams with us. Get in touch with us today and let us assist you in transforming those dreams into tangible success.