What is the procedure to start a restaurant in Dubai?

The Dubai “Food Code”

As you start a restaurant in Dubai, there are some important things you have to take care. You have to follow the mandatory guidelines and instructions provided by the Food Control Department of Dubai Municipality to ensure safe production. This comes with a clear set of instructions and guidelines under a code issued by Dubai Municipality which is known as the Food Code. Make sure you adhere to the rules mentioned in the code while opening a restaurant in Dubai.

Licenses and how to secure it.

To start a restaurant you need two types of licenses;  one is  “ Food License “ which you have to acquire from Food and Safety Department ,  second one “Trade License “ which can be acquired from the Department of Economic Development and The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing. To secure the license, the blueprint of your restaurant should be produced  to the Food Safety Department. If you are planning an outdoor restaurant then approval should be secured from Planning Department. Please note that for Liquor License these procedures are different.

Food safety requirements

Before starting operations first thing you require is to appoint qualified persons. Authorities always checks on food safety requirements to make sure customers are getting safe and quality food. Along with food License there are other permits you need to obtain for smooth functioning. They are:

1. Food consignment release license
2. Pork permit for handling and serving pork
3. Vehicle permit for transportation of food
4. For import and export of food products there are other regulations.

Restaurant Construction Requirements 

A restaurant site should always be suitable for a food establishment. While you design your restaurant keep in mind to include enough storage space for food and food processing. Another thing to keep in mind is the lighting and ventilation. One should possess a “No objection letter” from Dubai Municipality - Public Health Department before starting the construction.