Entrepreneurs and investors from all over the world are attracted to Dubai because of the city’s wealth of business opportunities as it continues to prosper as a rapidly growing economy in the Middle East. Among the thriving industries in Dubai, the cafeteria industry has expanded significantly, serving a wide variety of international clients. You’ve come to the right place if you’re thinking about how to begin the process of opening a small cafeteria in Dubai.

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We will provide you with all the necessary knowledge you need to effectively open your own cafeteria in Dubai in this comprehensive blog. We will dive into the details about the important topics including the price to start a cafeteria in Dubai, the procedures to get a cafeteria licence, and valuable insights into the local market. You’ll have a clear understanding of the standards and steps necessary to open your ideal café in this thriving metropolis by the time you finish this blog.

What is the Procedure to open a Small Cafeteria in Dubai?

To obtain a cafeteria license in UAE, it is crucial to follow the necessary steps outlined below:

1. Obtain a Trade licence from the Department of Economic Development (DED)

Obtaining a Trade licence from the Department of Economic Development (DED) is the first step towards obtaining a cafeteria licence in Dubai. The DED is the government agency in charge of overseeing and awarding licences for different commercial operations in Dubai. You must submit the required paperwork, which includes the application form, copies of each partner’s passport, and information on the intended business ventures, in order to apply for a trade licence.

2. Get a food license from the Dubai Municipality Food and Safety Department

Following the receipt of your trade licence from the DED, you must next seek a food licence from the Dubai Municipality Food and Safety Department. This permit guarantees that your cafe will be in compliance with all the requirements for food safety and hygiene owing to this licence. You must offer comprehensive information on the food items you will be serving, the preparation techniques, and the storage facilities when you apply for a food licence. You can also be asked to undergo inspections and produce the requisite food safety documentation.

3. Choose an appropriate site and location for your cafeteria

Your cafeteria’s success depends on the site you choose. Take into account elements like proximity to residential areas, workplaces, or well-known tourist attractions. Make that the location complies with zoning laws and allows for the operation of a cafeteria.

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4. Draft and sign the Memorandum of Association and lease agreement with your partners

It is crucial to write and sign a lease agreement and a memorandum of association (MOA) if you are starting a cafeteria business with partners. While the lease agreement details the terms and conditions of leasing the property, the MOA describes the rights, obligations, and profit-sharing among the partners.

5. Provide the Department of Economic Development (DED) with the required paperwork

After you have finished the preliminary steps, you must assemble and deliver the required paperwork to the Department of Economic Development (DED). The Trade Licence Application Form, copies of partners’ passports, a Memorandum of Agreement, a lease agreement, and any supporting documents as defined by the DED may be included in the list of required documents.

6. Submit a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) application

In some cases, depending on the location or type of business activity, you may be required to obtain a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from other relevant authorities. The NOC verifies that there are no objections to establishing your cafeteria at the chosen location. You can apply for the NOC by submitting the necessary documents and paying the applicable fees.

7. Payment voucher and fee payment

Once your application and documents have been reviewed and approved by the Department of Economic Development, you will be issued a payment voucher. This voucher will specify the required fees for obtaining the cafeteria license. You can proceed to make the payment through the designated payment channels.

8. Issuance of the cafeteria license

Upon successful payment of the required fees, the Department of Economic Development will process your application and issue the cafeteria license. The license serves as official permission to operate your cafeteria in Dubai and must be displayed prominently at your establishment.

It is important to note that the process of obtaining a cafeteria license in Dubai may vary depending on factors such as the type of establishment and the specific requirements of the authorities. It is advisable to consult with professionals or business consultants who can guide you through the process and ensure compliance with all legal obligations.

By following these steps diligently, you can navigate the process of obtaining a cafeteria license in UAE successfully. It is crucial to adhere to all regulations and requirements to establish your cafeteria legally and create a solid foundation for your business.

What paperwork is needed in Dubai to start a cafeteria?

When opening a cafeteria in Dubai, there are certain documents that you need to prepare and submit for various approvals and licenses. These documents ensure that your cafeteria meets the required standards and regulations. Here are the required documents for opening a cafeteria in Dubai.

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Construction Plan of the Cafeteria

  • Detailed layout and design plan of the cafeteria space, including areas for food processing, cooking, and storage.
  • Sanitary facilities plan, including restrooms and handwashing stations.
  • Specifications for windows and ventilation systems.
  • Equipment layout plan, indicating the location of food processing equipment.
  • Location plan for washing machines, if applicable.
  • Entry and exit plan for passages within the cafeteria.

Approval of Food License

  • Approval certificate from the Department of Economic Development (DED).
  • Building or space layout plan, showcasing the cafeteria area.
  • Approval certificate from the planning department, verifying compliance with construction guidelines and zoning regulations.

Approval of Trade License

  • License application form, duly signed by all business partners and managers.
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA), signed by all shareholders, outlining the rights and responsibilities of each party.
  • Company name registration and approval letter from the relevant authority.
  • Passport copies of the business managers and employees, verifying their identities.

When considering the location for your small cafeteria in Dubai, the following requirements should be taken into account-

  1. Appropriate Location: Choose a location that is suitable for a cafeteria business, ideally in a busy area with a good flow of potential customers.
  2. Sufficient Space: Ensure that the selected location provides enough space to accommodate the necessary equipment and facilitate food preparation activities.
  3. Waste Disposal: The location should have designated areas for proper disposal of waste and effective management of smoke emission.
  4. Separate Toilet Area: It is important to have a separate and well-maintained toilet area, preferably located away from the kitchen area.
  5. Hygienic Standards: The walls, floors, and roofs of the cafeteria space should be regularly cleaned and maintained to meet proper hygiene standards.
  6. Fire Safety Measures: Ensure that the chosen location adheres to fire safety regulations and is equipped with appropriate fire-proofing measures.
  7. Separate Washbasins: In compliance with food safety regulations, it is essential to have separate washbasins for cleaning utensils, vegetables, and meat (if applicable for non-vegetarian cafeterias).

By carefully considering these location requirements, you can ensure a conducive environment for running a small cafeteria in Dubai while maintaining the necessary hygiene and safety standards.

It is important to note that additional documents may be required based on the specific requirements of the authorities and the nature of your cafeteria business. It is advisable to consult with professionals or business consultants who can guide you through the document preparation process and ensure that all necessary documents are in order for a smooth application process.

How Much Cost Determine for Setting Up Cafeteria in Dubai from India?

Now let’s delve into one of the most crucial aspects – the cost of opening a cafeteria in Dubai. This cost encompasses various key factors such as rental expenses, interior decor, and staffing requirements.

It’s important to allocate a significant portion of your budget towards securing a suitable location that attracts customers and meets your operational needs. Additionally, investing in an appealing interior design that creates an inviting ambiance can significantly enhance the dining experience for your customers. Lastly, allocating funds for hiring competent staff members who excel in customer service and food preparation is essential for the success of your cafeteria.

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Remember, the specific cost may vary depending on factors such as location, size of the cafeteria, and your chosen menu offerings. Conducting thorough research and budget planning will help you estimate the costs accurately and ensure a smooth financial journey as you embark on your cafeteria venture in Dubai.

Get in touch with Whiteworth!

However, you might find the application process for your cafe licence in Dubai a little perplexing. The business advisors and solicitors at Whiteworth can assist you in obtaining your licence quickly and inexpensively whilst providing you with a flexible and affordable company establishment in Dubai. All you need to do is connect with us, and the rest will be handled by us.