Starting a food business in Dubai is an exciting opportunity, but to operate legally, you must have the right food license in place. Whether you’re opening a restaurant, café, catering service, or selling homemade food, understanding the food license requirements in Dubai will help you avoid fines and delays.
In this guide, Raes Associates explains how to get a food license in Dubai, the documents you’ll need, estimated costs, and the approval process for both restaurants and home-based food businesses.
What is a Food License in Dubai?
A food license in Dubai is an official permit issued by the Dubai Municipality or the Department of Economic Development (DED), allowing businesses to prepare, handle, and sell food products legally.
There are different types of food licenses depending on your business activity, such as:
- Restaurant license
- Café license
- Catering license
- Food truck license
- Home food business license
Operating without a valid food license can lead to heavy fines or business closure, so it’s crucial to understand the legal requirements before you start.
Need help getting your food license in Dubai fast? Chat with Raes Associates on WhatsApp and get expert guidance today!
If you plan to trade packaged food items, see our Foodstuff Trading License Guide for Dubai.
How to Get a Food License in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting a food license in Dubai involves multiple steps and coordination with different government authorities. Here’s a simple step-by-step process:
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Decide what type of food business you want to run — e.g., restaurant, food truck, or home-based catering.
Step 2: Select the Business Location
You must have a physical location that meets Dubai Municipality’s hygiene and safety standards. Even for a home-based license, certain approvals are required.
Step 3: Register Your Trade Name
Register your company name with the DED.
Step 4: Get Initial Approval
Apply for initial approval from DED to confirm your business can operate legally under the chosen activity.
Step 5: Submit Layout Plan for Approval
Provide a detailed layout plan of your kitchen or premises to Dubai Municipality’s Food Safety Department for approval.
Step 6: Obtain Food Control Department Approval
The Food Control Department will inspect the premises to ensure it meets all food safety and hygiene regulations.
Step 7: Receive Final License
Once all inspections and approvals are complete, you can collect your trade license and start operations.
If you’re interested in running a small food outlet, our Step-by-Step Guide for Getting a Cafeteria License in Dubai will help.
Restaurant License Cost in Dubai
One of the most common questions is “How much does a restaurant license cost in Dubai?”
The cost of a restaurant license in Dubai depends on several factors, such as the size of your premises, location, and the type of food business. On average:
- DED Trade License Fee: AED 10,000 – AED 12,000 per year
- Dubai Municipality Food License: AED 10,000 – AED 15,000 (approx.)
- Other Costs: Kitchen equipment, layout approvals, and fit-out costs vary.
Keep in mind, there may be additional charges for health and safety permits, signage approvals, and external approvals for special activities like outdoor seating.
For a deeper breakdown, read our Complete Guide on Restaurant License Costs and Requirements in Dubai.
Confused about restaurant license costs or paperwork? Click here to talk to Raes Associates on WhatsApp now.
Do I need a license to sell homemade food in Dubai?
Yes. If you plan to sell homemade food in Dubai — such as cakes, pastries, or meals — you still need a valid home food business license.
The Dubai Municipality encourages small food entrepreneurs but has strict hygiene and packaging rules. Some sellers register under incubator programs like the “Intelaq License” for home businesses.
Raes Associates can help you choose the best license option to run your homemade food business legally and confidently.
If you want to learn more, check our detailed guide on How to Sell Homemade Food Online in the UAE and Home Made Food License Requirements in Dubai.
Documents and Requirements for Food License
When applying for a food license in Dubai, you’ll need to submit certain documents, including:
- Trade name registration certificate
- Initial approval from DED
- Detailed kitchen or restaurant layout plan
- Tenancy contract or Ejari (rental agreement)
- Passport copies of business owners/partners
- Approval from the Food Control Department
- NOC from the landlord (if applicable)
Additionally, your premises must comply with Dubai’s Food Code — covering ventilation, drainage, waste disposal, and storage standards.
Approval Timeline and Renewal Process
The time required to get a food license in Dubai can vary, but with complete documents and a compliant setup, you can expect:
- Initial DED Approval: 3-5 working days
- Food Safety Approval & Inspections: 5-10 working days
- Final License Issuance: Within 2-3 weeks
Once issued, your food license is typically valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Failure to renew can result in fines or business suspension.
Make the Food Licensing Process Easy with Raes Associates
Getting a food license in Dubai doesn’t have to be complicated — but it does require careful planning, proper documentation, and compliance with local regulations.
At Raes Associates, we help entrepreneurs, restaurants, cafés, and home food sellers navigate the licensing process smoothly. From choosing the right business activity to getting Dubai Municipality approvals, we handle it all so you can focus on growing your food business.
Ready to launch your food business in Dubai the right way? Message Raes Associates on WhatsApp now for step-by-step support, document help, and fast approvals.
FAQs
Q1: How much does a restaurant license cost in Dubai?
The total cost can range from AED 20,000–AED 40,000+, depending on the scale and location.
Q2: Can I sell food from home in Dubai?
Yes, but you must apply for a home food business license or Intelaq License and meet Dubai Municipality guidelines.
Q3: How long does it take to get a food license in Dubai?
On average, 2–4 weeks if all documents and approvals are complete.
Q4: Do I need a separate food license for a food truck?
Yes — food trucks require a specific permit and must comply with strict hygiene and location regulations.
