If you’re planning to launch a food business or import packaged food items into the UAE, understanding the cost to register a food product in Dubai Municipality is vital. Dubai has strict regulations to ensure all food products meet its high safety and quality standards — and registering your products correctly helps you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and build trust with customers.
In this guide, Raes Associates breaks down everything you need to know about food product registration in Dubai, including costs, steps, timelines, and key requirements.
What Is Food Product Registration in Dubai Municipality?
Food product registration is the mandatory approval process set by the Dubai Municipality to ensure all food items — whether manufactured locally or imported — meet UAE safety and labeling standards. This applies to packaged foods, processed items, and even homemade products intended for sale.
If you want to run a foodstuff trading company, open a cafeteria, grocery, or even sell homemade food, you’ll first need to register your products with Dubai Municipality.
Thinking about selling packaged or bulk food items? Check our detailed guide on Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai for step-by-step requirements.
How Much Does It Cost to Register a Food Product in Dubai?
Registering a food product in Dubai typically costs between AED 1,000 and AED 2,500 per product through Dubai Municipality. Additional expenses may apply for Arabic label translation (AED 300–800), laboratory testing if required (AED 500–1,500), and professional assistance if you use a consultancy to handle paperwork and approvals. The exact cost depends on the product type, number of SKUs, and compliance requirements.
Average Cost Breakdown
Here’s what you can expect for Dubai Municipality food product registration costs:
Cost Item | Estimated Cost (AED) | Details |
Dubai Municipality product registration fee | AED 1,000 – 2,500 per product | Each SKU (variation) must be registered |
Label translation (if required) | AED 300 – 800 | All labels must be in Arabic & English |
Laboratory testing (if needed) | AED 500 – 1,500 | Some products require lab test reports |
Professional consultancy (optional) | AED 1,000 – 3,000 | Using a specialist like Raes speeds up approval |
What Affects the Cost?
The final cost depends on:
- Type of food product(snacks, drinks, health supplements)
- Imported vs. local(imports may need extra clearances)
- Label compliance(missing Arabic labeling means extra costs)
- Number of SKUs(each variation is registered separately)
Tip: Registering multiple products in one batch helps you avoid duplicate admin fees.
Opening a small food outlet? Learn about the Guide to Cafeteria License in Dubai — licensing, costs, and tips.
Step-by-Step: How to Register a Food Product in Dubai Municipality
Open a FIRS Account
Register on the Food Import and Re-export System (FIRS), Dubai Municipality’s online platform.
Gather Your Documents
You’ll need:
- Valid UAE trade license
- Product label design (Arabic & English)
- Ingredients list
- Clear product photo
- Lab test reports if needed
- Import details for foreign products
Check Label Compliance
Your food labels must meet UAE food safety laws:
- Product name in Arabic & English
- Ingredient breakdown
- Production & expiry dates
- Storage instructions
- Nutritional info (where applicable)
Submit Application & Pay Fees
Upload your documents to FIRS, pay the Dubai Municipality registration fee, and wait for review.
Product Review & Approval
If everything’s in order, your food product will be approved within 2–4 weeks.
If you’re planning to run a small neighborhood grocery, here’s a must-read on the Grocery License Process in Dubai.
Other Business Registration Costs in the UAE
Registering a food product is only part of launching your business. You’ll also need to factor in other UAE business registration costs.
Here’s a clear breakdown:
Firm Registration Costs
- LLC Company:AED 22,000 – 24,000
- Free Zone Company:Starts from AED 15,000
These fees vary based on shareholders, business activity, and visa quotas.
Licensing Fees
Every business must have an appropriate license — commercial, service, industrial, tourism, or agriculture.
Licenses must be renewed every year to keep your operations legal and avoid fines.
Office Rent
Having a business address is mandatory. Office rent typically ranges from AED 15,000–20,000 per year, depending on location and size.
Trade Name Reservation
Reserving a trade name with the Dubai Economic Department costs:
- Local name: AED 750
- Foreign name: AED 2,000
Visas
Business owners and staff need valid UAE residence visas. Costs vary by the number of visas and employee category.
Memorandum of Association (MOA) Fees
- Attestation: AED 300 per signing
- Signing at different centers: AED 500
- Digital signature: AED 100 per partner
Business Registration Cost Table
Description | Estimated Cost (AED) |
Initial approval certificate | AED 120 |
License registration fee | AED 600 |
Trade Name Reservation | AED 750 |
Foreign Trade Name Reservation | AED 1,000–3,000 |
DED Trader License | AED 1,070 + AED 300 Dubai Chamber |
Intelaq License | AED 1,070 |
Business center fees | AED 25,000 |
MOA attestation | AED 300–500 |
Office rent | AED 15,000–20,000 |
Visa fees | Varies per person |
Talk to Raes Associates for a Custom Quote
Getting your business registered correctly saves you money, time, and future compliance headaches. Raes Associates handles it all — from securing your trade license to registering your food products quickly and efficiently.
Click here to WhatsApp us now and get a personalized quote for your business setup in the UAE.
Selling home-made food? Don’t miss our Home-Made Food License Guide to learn what’s legal and how to get approved.
Need a Precise Quote for Your Business Setup?
Understanding how much it costs to register a food product in Dubai — along with the wider costs of business setup — helps you plan realistically, avoid hidden fees, and launch smoothly.
With Raes Associates, you get local experts who handle every detail for you:
- Preparing and submitting paperwork
- Ensuring your labels comply
- Liaising with Dubai Municipality
- Keeping your approvals on track
So you can focus on what you do best — running and growing your business.
Message our team on WhatsApp today to get started!
FAQs: Food Product Registration in Dubai
How much does a food license cost in Dubai?
A food business license (restaurant, cafeteria, or grocery) can range from AED 10,000–40,000 depending on location and size.
How much does it cost to register food products with Dubai Municipality?
Expect AED 1,000–2,500 per product, plus potential costs for translation and lab testing.
How do I register a food product in Dubai?
Set up a FIRS account, prepare your documents, ensure labels meet UAE standards, pay the Dubai Municipality registration fee, and await approval.
How long does the food product registration take?
If all documents are correct, approvals usually take 2–4 weeks.
Is food product registration mandatory?
Yes — all food products sold in Dubai must be registered with Dubai Municipality before they enter the market.
Ready to Register? Let’s Get Started!
Raes Associates is your trusted partner for stress-free food product registration in Dubai.
Chat with us now for expert help.
