Are you planning to open a restaurant in Dubai but are unsure where to begin? You’re not alone. Dubai is one of the world’s most diverse and dynamic business hubs, making it an ideal destination for aspiring restaurateurs.
From understanding licensing and approvals to choosing the right location and concept, starting a restaurant can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. Join us as we walk you through the complete journey to open a restaurant in Dubai, helping you navigate every step with clarity and confidence. With the right planning and expert support, you can turn your restaurant vision into a successful reality in this global culinary destination.
Trade License for Opening a Restaurant in Dubai
Starting a restaurant in Dubai requires getting specific licenses to ensure legal compliance and operational efficiency. Here’s a detailed look at the essential permits and steps to get them:
1. Trade License
- Define the type of restaurant operation in the license.
- Costs vary depending on the restaurant type, typically ranging from AED 30,000 to AED 40,000*.
Steps to Get a Trade License
Below are the steps to get a trade license- Determine the nature of the enterprise (commercial, professional, or industrial).
- Designate legal status and register a trade name.
- Apply for initial approval.
- Lease a corporate office.
- Prepare the required documents.
- Submit the final approval application to the DED.
2. Get the Food License Approval
- Issued by the Food Safety Department after obtaining the Trade License.
- It requires the submission of specific documents and restaurant layout details.
Documents Required for Food License
- Copy of the trade license.
- Interior design layout blueprint, including:
- Entry and exit passages.
- Food processing and storage areas.
- Windows, ventilation system, and dishwashing spaces.
Documents Required for Restaurant Business in Dubai
Here is a list of documents required to start a business in Dubai and get a restaurant license.- Copy of trade license
- Restaurant layout blueprint (if applicable)
- Additional permits (e.g., liquor license)
- A passport copy of the investor
- Visa copy of the investor
- Passport-size photographs
- Business plan
How to Start a Restaurant in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide
Opening a restaurant in Dubai requires strict compliance with the city’s food code (Food Control Department of Dubai Municipality), which applies to all types of eateries, from upscale restaurants to cosy cafes and bakeries. This code establishes industry standards that are essential for your establishment’s success.
We have compiled a concise yet comprehensive list of essential factors to help you navigate this culinary business. Follow this guide to transform your restaurant dream into reality in Dubai’s vibrant landscape.
1. Define Your Restaurant Concept & Unique Appeal
When starting a restaurant in Dubai, creating a unique concept is crucial to differentiate yourself in the city’s busy food scene. A distinctive idea gives you an advantage, helping you to stand out among other restaurants in Dubai.
Your restaurant’s concept includes the style of service, menu choices, and overall atmosphere. Creating a consistent experience that appeals to your target customers is important. Additionally, it's important to identify your restaurant’s Unique Selling Point (USP). Introducing innovative dishes or adopting uncommon themes can attract a large customer base.
2. Choose the Right Restaurant Location in Dubai
Dubai’s diverse population of over two hundred nationalities allows restaurant owners to appeal to a wide range of customers, making location a critical determinant of success. Before choosing a spot, thorough research must ensure your restaurant attracts Emirati locals and tourists. When selecting a location, consider these key factors:
- Visibility: Select a spot with high foot traffic and ensure your restaurant sign is easy to spot.
- Accessibility: Opt for an easily reachable area to encourage repeat visits and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Target Audience: Identify your customer base and choose a location that meets their preferences and expectations.
- Affordability: Research rental costs and potential fluctuations to maintain profitability, especially for specific menu items.
- Proximity to Suppliers: Evaluate shipping costs and supplier proximity to optimise raw material procurement and reduce expenses.
- Jumeirah: Perfect for upscale dining venues, benefiting from its affluent reputation.
- Emirates Hills: A prestigious residential enclave drawing upscale clientele.
- Dubai Creek: Blending tradition with modernity, appealing to both tourists and locals.
- Mall of the Emirates: A bustling shopping destination, ideal for attracting shoppers and tourists alike.
- Al Quoz: It is renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene and is suitable for trendy and artistic restaurant concepts.
3. Menu Development Strategy for Restaurants
Creating an appealing menu is crucial before your restaurant opens. Thoughtful planning and strategic decisions are key to crafting a menu that attracts customers and ensures profitability. Here’s how to approach menu development- Menu Selection: Choose menu items that are varied and unique to attract customers.
- Strategic Pricing: Price your menu items carefully to cover prime costs, including Cost of Goods Sold and Labor Costs, aligning with your financial goals.
- Profit Maximization: Structure your menu to promote high-profit items. Strategically place these items where they will grab attention and create enticing menu descriptions to attract customers.
- Adaptability: Start with a partially designed menu and refine it based on customer preferences. Focus on popular items and update your offerings to keep your menu fresh and appealing.
4. Restaurant Layout & Space Planning
Effective planning is essential to design a layout that aligns with your menu and theme. Follow these guidelines to optimise your restaurant’s layout:- Space Efficiency: Utilize available space efficiently to allow for unrestricted movement. Strategic placement of tables, kitchen equipment, and other elements is crucial for seamless operations.
- Functionality: Analyze and organise every aspect to ensure tables, seating arrangements, and kitchen equipment are positioned for maximum efficiency. This ensures smooth daily tasks.
- Enhanced Guest Experience: Thoughtfully arrange the layout to improve the dining experience. A well-organized space facilitates operations and creates a pleasant atmosphere for diners.
5. Hiring & Building a Skilled Restaurant Team
Before commencing the hiring process, it’s essential to identify the roles you need to fill within your establishment:- Sous Chef
- Prep Cooks
- Manager
- Servers
- Bartenders (if alcohol service is part of your offerings)
- Host
- Cleaning Staff
Cost of Opening a Restaurant in Dubai (2026)
Opening a restaurant in Dubai in 2026 remains a capital-intensive venture amid the city's thriving F&B scene. Total startup costs typically range from AED 500,000 to AED 1.5 million, depending on size, location, and concept (e.g., casual vs. fine dining). Key expenses include:
- Trade and food licenses: AED 15,000–50,000
- Commercial rent/fit-out: AED 300,000–800,000
- Kitchen equipment and interiors: AED 200,000–500,000
- Initial staffing/visas: AED 100,000+
Prime areas like Dubai Marina command higher rents, while emerging zones offer savings. Careful budgeting and compliance with Dubai Municipality regulations are essential for success.
Get Assistance with the Shuraa India
Starting a restaurant business in Dubai is an exciting opportunity, and Shuraa India is here to make the journey smooth and stress-free. With Dubai’s thriving food and hospitality industry, strategic location, and business-friendly policies, now is the perfect time to launch your restaurant venture. However, navigating licenses, approvals, food safety regulations, and documentation can be complex without expert guidance.
At Shuraa India, we provide end-to-end support for restaurant setup in Dubai. From choosing the right business structure and securing your trade and food licenses to handling approvals from the DED and Dubai Municipality, our experienced consultants manage every detail. We also assist with location selection, documentation, visa processing, PRO services, and compliance requirements.
With our industry expertise and transparent approach, you can focus on creating a memorable dining experience while we handle the legal and administrative processes. Take the first step towards restaurant success in Dubai, partner with Shuraa India today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to open a restaurant in Dubai?
The process of opening a restaurant in Dubai typically takes 2 to 4 months, depending on factors such as license approvals, location selection, interior setup, and staffing. Free zone setups may be faster, while mainland restaurants can take longer due to additional approvals.
2. Can foreigners fully own a restaurant in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can fully own a restaurant in Dubai if they set up in a free zone. For mainland locations, a local partner or sponsor holding 51% of shares may be required unless you qualify for the new 100% foreign ownership regulations in certain sectors.
3. What are the most profitable restaurant types in Dubai?
The most profitable restaurant concepts in Dubai often include:
- Upscale fine dining targeting tourists and high-income residents.
- Café and casual dining outlets in high-traffic locations.
- Specialty or niche cuisines that offer unique experiences or international flavors.
- Food trucks or cloud kitchens that minimize rent costs while reaching a wide audience.
4. Can I serve alcohol in my Dubai restaurant?
Yes, but only after obtaining a special alcohol license from the relevant authorities. Restaurants located in hotels or licensed venues have easier access to alcohol permissions, while standalone restaurants must meet strict regulations.
5. What are the best areas to open a restaurant in Dubai?
Some of the top locations include:
- Dubai Marina – High foot traffic and tourist hotspot, ideal for casual and trendy restaurants.
- Jumeirah – Upscale area, perfect for fine dining concepts.
- Downtown Dubai – Luxury dining near iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa.
- Mall of the Emirates – High shopper traffic, great for family-friendly restaurants.
- Al Quoz – Artistic and niche concepts, lower rent compared to prime areas.
- Dubai Creek – Cultural area suitable for traditional and fusion cuisines.
6. Can I open a restaurant in a free zone and still attract customers from all over Dubai?
Yes. Restaurants in free zones can attract customers, but most free zone licenses restrict direct sales outside the zone. Delivery services or collaborations can help reach customers in other areas of Dubai while staying compliant with regulations.
