Dubai’s thriving culinary scene makes it one of the best places in the world to open a restaurant. From fine dining and street food to themed cafés and global franchises, the emirate offers endless opportunities for F&B entrepreneurs. But to succeed, you need more than a great menu—you need to understand the legal, financial, and regulatory aspects of setting up a restaurant in Dubai.

In this step-by-step guide, we explain how to start a restaurant in Dubai, including licensing procedures, estimated costs, and key government requirements in 2025.

Why Open a Restaurant in Dubai?

• Diverse population with a strong dining-out culture
• High-income consumer base and global tourist influx
• Supportive business ecosystem for F&B entrepreneurs
• Tax-free profits and 100% foreign ownership options

From quick service outlets to Michelin-level establishments, Dubai has room for every concept.

Step-by-Step Process to Open a Restaurant in Dubai

Step 1: Choose the Business Activity & Legal Structure

You’ll need a Commercial License with a restaurant-related activity such as:

• Restaurant & Coffee Shop
• Restaurant with Entertainment Permit
• Fast Food Outlet
• Fine Dining Restaurant

The preferred legal structure for most investors is a Limited Liability Company (LLC) with 100% foreign ownership under Dubai Mainland or Free Zone jurisdiction.

✅ Pro Tip: Mainland gives you full access to the local market and walk-in customers, ideal for restaurants.

Step 2: Find a Suitable Location

Location is critical to the success of your restaurant. You can lease space in:

• Shopping malls
• Commercial towers
• Street-level retail units
• Tourist destinations (JBR, Downtown, Marina, etc.)

Make sure your location is approved for F&B operations and meets Dubai Municipality’s health and safety standards.

Step 3: Reserve Your Trade Name

Apply through the Department of Economic Development (DED) to reserve a business name that:

• Reflects your brand or concept
• Is not offensive or religious
• Avoids duplication of existing names

Step 4: Get Initial Approval from DED

Submit your business plan and key documents to get the initial approval to proceed. This includes:

• Passport copies of shareholders
• Business activity selection
• Trade name reservation
• NOC if applicable

Step 5: Obtain Food & Safety Approvals

Before your restaurant license is issued, you must get clearance from:

1. Dubai Municipality – Food Control Department
2. Dubai Civil Defense (for fire and safety compliance)

You’ll need to submit:

• Floor plan of the kitchen, storage, and dining areas
• Details of ventilation, drainage, and waste disposal
• HACCP (Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Points) compliance

For restaurants in shopping malls or free zones, you may also need landlord or zone-specific approvals.

Step 6: Finalize the Trade License

Once all approvals are in place, you can proceed with:

• Signing the tenancy contract (Ejari)
• Final submission to DED
• Paying licensing and registration fees

You will then receive your:

• Commercial trade license
• Food license
• Municipality registration certificate

Step 7: Apply for Visas & Open a Corporate Bank Account

Once your company is set up:

• Apply for your Investor Visa
• Hire employees (chefs, waitstaff, managers) and apply for their work and residence visas
• Open a corporate bank account to manage business transactions

Estimated Cost to Open a Restaurant in Dubai (2025)

Note: Costs vary depending on the restaurant size, location, and concept.

Ongoing Compliance Requirements

• Annual license renewal (DED & Municipality)
• Food safety inspections
• Employee health cards (mandatory for all F&B staff)
• VAT registration (if revenue exceeds AED 375,000 annually)

Why Work with GCCG.ae to Open Your Restaurant in Dubai?

At GCCG, we help entrepreneurs like you navigate the complex licensing and compliance process so you can focus on what matters—building your restaurant brand and serving great food.

✅ Trade license, food license & health approvals handled
✅ Location sourcing and Ejari assistance
✅ Transparent pricing, no hidden costs
✅ Visa processing & ongoing business support
✅ Support from concept to launch

Let’s Get Cooking

Dubai’s restaurant market is full of opportunities—but success depends on proper setup and planning. Whether you’re launching a fine dining experience or a modern street food outlet, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact GCCG.ae today for a free consultation and start your restaurant journey with confidence.