Dubai is a awesome location to start a restaurant business. The city is full of lifestyles, culture, and people around the world. In 2023, more than 17 million travelers visited Dubai. This approach that many human people are continually looking for new places to eat. Whether you want to open a good serving restaurant or a small food storage, Dubai gives you the opportunity to do it. The city offers it all - luxury, diversity, and a love of good food. This is why so many food lovers and business owners choose to start their food business here.

Dubai makes it easy to open a restaurant or cafe. The city has strong roads, transportation, and contemporary buildings. People from over 200 countries stay right here, and that they enjoy in tasting a variety of foods. You can serve locals, vacationers, and foreigners multi function region. There is a huge demand for both high-class cuisine and cheap street food.

If you plan well, you can run a successful restaurant in Dubai. You will need to decide whether you want to open your business in a free zone or on the mainland. You will also need a strong team, a clear idea, and a good name. With the right help, you can set up your restaurant without stress.

Why Is It a Good Idea to Open a Restaurant or Cafeteria in Dubai?

Food lovers grow every day around the world, and that makes Dubai and the UAE good places to start a food spot. Dubai city is growing rapidly in the world of food spots, and if you plan it properly, you can earn good money from food spots in Dubai.

• You get many types of people from Asia, Europe, America, and the Middle East.

• Tourists keep coming more and more every year.

• The government keeps pushing to increase money and the country’s income.

• They support people who start food spots like restaurants or cafeterias.

However, before opening your food restaurant in Dubai or the UAE, you should take some steps. If you are starting a restaurant, you should get a restaurant license. Or if you are opening a cafeteria, you should get a cafeteria license. Depending on what you choose, you should also plan how much it will cost to start a cafeteria or how much you will have to pay for a restaurant license.

Benefits of Opening a Restaurant in Dubai

Food shops or small hotels in Dubai make good money. Therefore, opening your own restaurant in Dubai is a smart idea. Below are some simple points to explain why a Dubai is a good place to start your restaurant:

1. In 2022, over 11.4 million people visited Dubai. This shows how many people eat at food sites and enjoy food during the journey.

2. Dubai continues to grow with new businesses every year. Therefore, if you run your restaurant well, you can make more money. Also, the regulations here keep your business safe and stable.

3. If you open a free zone restaurant, you are the full owner of it. You get to keep all the money your food place earns.

4. Free zones do not ask you to pay taxes. You do not have to pay income tax or company tax at the office.

5. Dubai is easy and open for business. Free zone areas help you run your food place, and the people in charge also help you do better.

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How to Open a Restaurant Business in Dubai

• Choose a name for your restaurant

• Choose the type of food business you will run

• Fill out the form and send it to the Department of Economic Development (DED)

• Find a good restaurant space and sign a lease agreement

• Get the lease agreement approved by Ejari (Dubai Land Department)

• Get approval from the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM)

• Submit all the necessary papers and forms to DED

• Pay for your trade license and they approve it

• Once you have received the initial approval from DED, go to the Food Safety Department to get your food license

The Food Safety Department issues food licenses in Dubai. To get this license, you first need to show your trade license. For a Food and Safety License, you need the following:

Documents Required for a Dubai Trade License

Here is a simple list of the required documents:

• Initial approval letter from DED

• Complete and clear business plan

• A rental agreement for your premises

• Layout and floor plan of your restaurant

• A contract letter with your local sponsor (for mainland business setups only)

Types of Activities for Restaurants in Dubai

You can choose from these types of activities for your restaurants in Dubai.

• Restaurants and Cafes
• Floating or Mobile Restaurants
• Small-scale Restaurants and Shops
• Multiple Restaurant Complexes

How to Get a Restaurant License in Dubai?

Here’s a guide on how to get a restaurant license in Dubai:

Business Plan and Financials

• Write down your idea, your customers, your financial plan, and how you’ll make money.

• Record all expenses such as setup, daily expenses, and additional savings if necessary.

Legal Requirements and Licensing

• Learn about food regulations in Dubai.

• Apply for paperwork from the DED and Dubai Municipality.

• Register your venue and obtain food and beverage paperwork if necessary.

Menu Development and Suppliers

• Create a food menu that caters to both local and international tastes.

• Find good vendors who offer clean and fresh items.

Operations and Quality Control

• Create a daily plan to keep things running smoothly.

• Check in daily to make sure the food and service are good.

Location Selection and Lease Negotiations

• Choose a good location where people can easily come.

• Talk about rent and check if the venue complies with health and safety regulations.

Market Research and Concept Development

• Research the local area, your customers, and other food venues.

• Come up with a simple idea that people will like and remember.

Compliance and Sanitation

• Follow all food safety regulations and keep your venue clean.

• Check in frequently to make sure it is safe and tidy.

Staffing and Training

• Hire good cooks, helpers, and managers.

• Train them well so that the service and food are consistent every time.

Marketing and Promotion

• Use the internet and local advertising to spread the word about your venue.

• Plan events to attract people before the opening.

Interior Design and Ambience

• Make the interior beautiful and match your food concept.

• Purchase chairs, lights, and other items to make your guests feel comfortable.

These steps will help you open your restaurant in Dubai and ensure you follow the rules and keep your guests happy.

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Best Areas to Open a Restaurant in Dubai

Based on customer traffic, financial feasibility, and ideal customer groups, here are some of the leading locations to open a restaurant in Dubai:

• Jumeirah Beach Road
• Downtown Dubai
• Dubai Marina
• Mall of the Emirates
• Al Quoz
• Dubai Creek Harbour

You should choose a location that matches your restaurant’s style, customer focus, and future plans. By carefully reviewing these points, you can position your restaurant for growth in Dubai’s rapidly growing dining market.

How DBS Business Setup Group Can Help You Start an Eatery Business in Dubai

Steps listed above can open a restaurant in Dubai that seems simple, but they are not. A lot of permits and approval are required to start a restaurant in Dubai. Each cafe or food space should follow strict food rules, whether it is a bakery, coffee shop or a good food.  It is a smart idea for those who want to open a restaurant to seek guidance from top business setup companies like DBS and ensure that they follow all the regulations step-by-step.

FAQs: Questions & Answers

Q1. How Much Does It Cost to Open a Restaurant in Dubai?

The investment to open a restaurant in Dubai depends on the concept, location, and size. On average, it can cost anywhere from AED 500,000 to AED 1.5 million or more. The budget covers expenses such as rent, trade license, kitchen equipment, staff salaries, and promotions. Fine dining restaurants in prime areas may require more funds.

Q2. How Much Does a Food License Cost in Dubai?

The cost of a food license in Dubai usually ranges from AED 10,000 to AED 15,000, depending on the type of restaurant and its location. Along with this, you will also need to obtain a trade license, which can cost between AED 12,000 and AED 30,000.

Q3. How to Start a Food Restaurant in Dubai?

To start a restaurant in Dubai, you need to research the market, choose a suitable location, and prepare a solid business plan. You will also need to obtain the necessary approvals, such as a trade license, food license, and health permit. Setting up a professional kitchen, hiring the right staff, and creating a marketing plan are equally important.

Q4. Can a Foreigner Open a Restaurant in Dubai?

Yes, foreigners can open a restaurant in Dubai. Freezones allow 100% foreign ownership, making it easier for investors to run their business.

Also Read: How to Open a Grocery Store in Dubai: License Costs & Complete Process