Dubai A Gateway for Indian Entrepreneurs

Opening a cafeteria in Dubai, UAE, is a great business opportunity as it is home to professionals from all over the world. While most crave food from their home countries, many are eager to try new cuisines. Moreover, the city’s fast-paced lifestyle leaves many residents with little time to cook..

That’s why Dubai’s food industry is thriving, as residents and tourists alike seek unique and delicious dining experiences. Cafeterias provide a casual and affordable option for people to grab a quick bite or enjoy a leisurely meal. With the city’s growing population and thriving tourism industry, there’s no shortage of potential customers for cafeteria businesses.

If you plan to start a cafeteria in Dubai, you need to obtain a relevant trade license from the Department of Economic Development. However, it’s also important to obtain certain food and safety permits from the Dubai Municipality to legally start a cafeteria in Dubai.

So, here’s everything you need to know about how to open a cafeteria in Dubai, UAE, including the process, cafeteria license cost in Dubai, benefits, and more.

Why start a cafeteria business in Dubai ?

Dubai’s thriving economy and diverse population make it a prime location to start a cafeteria business. Here’s why:

• The thriving food and beverage industry: Dubai’s economy is booming, and the food and beverage industry is a major contributor. The city is a global tourism destination and attracts many residents with disposable income, creating a strong customer base for dining establishments.
• Business-friendly environment: The Dubai government actively encourages foreign investment and has a streamlined business setup process, making it easier for entrepreneurs to get started compared to other locations.
• Potential for high profits: With a large pool of potential customers and a growing economy, Dubai offers high profit potential in the food and beverage industry. Cafeterias typically have lower operating costs than full-service restaurants, which can improve your profit margins.
• Diverse clients: Dubai’s multicultural population has a diverse palate, welcoming a variety of cuisines. Whether you offer local Emirati cuisine, international comfort foods, or healthy options, there’s a market for it.
• High demand: Dubai’s fast-paced lifestyle means many residents rely on eating out, creating a steady demand for cafeterias that offer convenient and affordable meals.

Requirements for opening a cafeteria in Dubai

Food safety requirements

To ensure food safety, your cafeteria must have:

• Food shipment release license
• Permit for all vehicles that will be used to transport food products
• Permit for trading and serving pork or any of its derivatives

Site requirements

The space chosen to start a cafeteria must meet the following requirements:

• You have enough space to keep all the required equipment.
• Providing waste disposal facilities
• To be equipped with a smoke management system
• You have a separate toilet and storage areas.
• Walls, floors and ceilings should be non-absorbent, washable and fire-resistant.
• Be pest free
• Get separate washing basins for utensils, vegetables, and meat.

Documents Required to Obtain a Cafeteria License in Dubai

To obtain a cafeteria license in Dubai, you will need to submit several documents to the Department of Economic Development and possibly other departments.

Plans for various aspects of the cafeteria such as:

• Food preparation and storage space
• Windows and ventilation system
• Entry and exit routes
• Sanitary places such as bathrooms
• Location of washing areas
• Location of equipment used for food preparation

To obtain a food license approved by the Dubai Municipality Food Safety Department:

• Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development
• Building layout
• Planning Department approval if the cafeteria will be located outside a commercial complex

To obtain commercial license approval from the Department of Economic Development:

• Request a site from the company management
• Memorandum of Association (MOA)
• Letter of approval for the company name certified by the Department of Economic Development
• Copies of passports for all business partners

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Cafeteria in Dubai?

Opening a cafeteria in Dubai is an exciting venture, but understanding the costs involved is essential. Below is a breakdown of the costs involved in obtaining a cafeteria license and establishing your business:

Cafeteria License & Setup Costs in Dubai

Category	Item	Cost (AED)
Cafeteria License Cost	Base license fee	12,900* (starting price)
Main Costs
	Trade name reservation	620
	Initial approval facilitation fee	115
	Memorandum of Association Notarization	Varies (by business structure)
	Ejari (Lease Contract Authentication)	Required (varies by location)
	Commercial license issuance	6,000
	Foreign trade name fee (if applicable)	2,000
	Company seal	100
	Immigration card (establishment card)	Varies (by jurisdiction)
Additional Costs
	Interior design & fit-out	(Depends on size & design)
	Kitchen equipment & supplies	(Varies based on quality)
	Staff salaries (chefs, waiters, etc.)	(Depends on roles & numbers)

Note: Costs are approximate and subject to change based on jurisdiction and business requirements. For the most up-to-date information on costs.

Cafeteria license cost in Ajman

Ajman is a city and emirate located on the coast of the Arabian Gulf in the United Arab Emirates. It is the smallest of the seven emirates in terms of land area, but the fourth largest in terms of population.

Cafeteria licensing costs in Ajman are in a similar range to those in Dubai, from approximately AED 10,000* to AED 15,000*. This range represents the basic licensing fee and may not include additional costs. This license is issued by the Ajman Department of Economic Development (DED).

Cafeteria license in Sharjah

The basic cost of obtaining a trade license in Sharjah ranges from AED 1,000* to AED 5,000* depending on the business activity you choose. Additional fees may apply for specific business activities.

For more accurate and up-to-date information on cafeteria license costs in each emirate, it’s recommended to consult with business setup specialists Contact us. Our company formation experts can guide you on the specific requirements and associated costs for obtaining a cafeteria license.

Partner with Cross Link today to get your cafeteria license hassle-free.

Cross Link has designed special business setup packages that take into account all the major expenses you will incur during the initial stages of starting your cafeteria business in Dubai. Our comprehensive and affordable offers will not only cover all costs related to the trade license but also provide additional services such as investor visa renewal.