Opening a restaurant or catering facility in Dubai or the UAE is a great business idea. It’s because Dubai hosts over 200 nationalities from all over the world. Few of them carve for their desired food, and few are eager to try the new cuisine and experience different cultures.
If you also want to become a part of this growing food market, you must wonder how to start a restaurant or cafeteria in Dubai and UAE.
Let’s dive in and find out together.
What Are The Requirements Of Opening A Cafeteria in Dubai?
The general requirements for opening a cafeteria in Dubai are as follows.
- Choose a strategic location with good visibility and access for your target clientele.
- Ensure the location meets all safety regulations set by the Dubai Municipality. This includes proper waste disposal, ventilation, and designated areas for food preparation and storage.
- A separate area to wash utensils and food is also necessary
- You also need trade and food licenses issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and the Dubai Municipality Food Safety Department, respectively.
- Additionally, all food handlers must have valid health cards.
- Not only this, but you also need a permit for your vehicle or place where you are operating the business.
- A dedicated space for food processing and making.
- There must be a proper ventilation system.
- Your selected location must be fireproof.
Documents you Need to Get a Cafeteria License in Dubai:
Here are the documents you need to get a Cafeteria License in Dubai:
- Approval certificate from the Department of Economic Development (DED)
- A detailed plan of your selected building layout, its location, the area, space and shop.
- If you are planning to operate a restaurant outside a shopping centre, you also need an approval certificate from the planning department.
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) signed by all shareholders
- An approval letter that your company name is registered and legal is also required
- Passport copies of business managers and employees
- If you are renting a space, then a copy of the tenancy contract is also required.
- Approvals issued by the Dubai Municipality Food Safety Department and the Department of Economic Development (DED)
- Health certificates for all food handlers
- Trade name reservation approval
- A license application is also required that must be signed by all partners.
Steps to Start a Restaurant or Cafeteria in Dubai and the UAE:
Step 1: Make a business plan
Your business plan serves as the roadmap for your venture. That’s why a detailed concept of what type of cuisine you’ll offer, who your targeted audience is, and the overall ambience you want to create must be included in your business plan. You can even outline your menu, highlighting signature dishes and unique offerings.
Not only these, but financial projections are also crucial. You should include estimated startup costs, operational expenses, and projected revenue streams in your business plan. Later, you need to develop a marketing strategy outlining how you’ll reach your target market and differentiate yourself from competitors in Dubai’s dynamic culinary scene.
Step 2: Choose your company structure
After that, you need to decide on the legal structure that best suits your needs. Common options include a sole proprietorship (ideal for smaller businesses with one owner), a limited liability company (LLC) offering greater protection for personal assets, or a branch of an existing foreign company. Each structure has its advantages and limitations, so consult with a business setup specialist to determine the most suitable option for your specific circumstances.
Step 3: Select and register a trade name
It’s time to brainstorm a catchy and memorable name that reflects your restaurant or cafeteria’s concept and resonates with your target audience. Once you’ve finalised a few options, conduct a trademark search to ensure the name isn’t already in use. The Department of Economic Development (DED) will handle the official registration process once you’ve selected your final name. However, you must make sure that the chosen name complies with the Dubai trade mark rules and has no offensive or political adherence.
Step 4: Apply for necessary licenses
A few of the licenses are also required to operate legally in Dubai. The primary permits you’ll need include a Trade License issued by the DED, which authorises you to conduct business activities. Next comes the Food License, obtained from the Dubai Municipality Food Safety Department, specifically permitting you to prepare and serve food. The application process for both licenses will involve submitting the required documents (as mentioned above) and adhering to specific regulations.
Step 5: Get a food permit
Once you have applied for the licenses, you will have the time to get a food permit because Dubai prioritises food safety. So, obtaining a food permit is a critical step. This process involves inspections by the Dubai Municipality Food Safety Department to ensure your kitchen meets its hygiene and safety standards. Their guidelines cover aspects like proper waste disposal, ventilation systems, designated areas for food preparation and storage, and adherence to food safety protocols.
Step 6: Choose a location
Location plays a significant role in the success of your restaurant or cafeteria. Consider factors like accessibility, foot traffic, demographics of the surrounding area, and proximity to potential competitors. Ensure the space aligns with your concept and can accommodate your desired layout and equipment. However, you also need a tenancy agreement and an Ejari certificate to obtain if you are leasing a space.
Step 7: Gather equipments
Invest in high-quality commercial kitchen equipment that aligns with your menu and cooking style. This could include ovens, stoves, refrigerators, freezers, food processors, and utensils tailored to your specific needs. Factor in essential equipment for storage, hygiene, and waste disposal. Consider furniture, tableware, and décor that create the desired ambience for your restaurant or cafeteria.
Step 8: Hire staff
Building a skilled team is crucial for smooth operations. Recruit qualified chefs, cooks, servers, and support staff based on your restaurant’s size and anticipated customer flow. Remember, administrative staff should handle tasks like accounting and payroll. Dubai has specific visa requirements for hiring staff from outside the UAE, so you must consider the visa sponsorship process when building your team.
Step: Open your restaurant
Once you’ve completed all the necessary steps, it’s time to make a grand opening of your restaurant or cafeteria in Dubai. You can promote your business through targeted marketing campaigns, social media engagement, and strategic partnerships. Remember, your business’s success lies in delivering exceptional customer service, delicious food, and a memorable dining experience – so make sure to have these all.
Cost of Opening a Cafeteria or Restaurant in Dubai and the UAE
The cost of opening a cafeteria or restaurant in Dbuai might vary depending on different factors such as additional permits or your food operations.
Additional costs include staff visas, premises rent, and any interior design or equipment you need. You might also bear the cost of professional business setup consultants if you need some help.
Start Efficiently With Ignite Zone
Wrapping up with a note that to start a restaurant or cafeteria in Dubai or UAE, you need a constructive business plan to meet your expenses more efficiently and to make it successful.
In this regard, our expert team of professionals can help you secure your licenses and build a detailed business plan to get a hassle-free company formation in Dubai. Our specifically crafted cost packages will help you secure your licenses efficiently.
So, call +971 4 575 211 0 our consultants today and get a Free Consultation. You can also contact us using our email, [email protected], or the Contact Us form.
