What is the Cost to Open a Restaurant in Dubai in 2024

Now this has been one of the most frequently asked questions from consumers or someone who wants to step into a catering business, be it a restaurant, or a café. If you are also someone who wants to ask what the cost of opening a restaurant in Dubai could be, don’t worry. In this article, we will be guiding you through all the aspects and factors you should consider when opening a restaurant in Dubai in 2024. Restaurant cost depends on various factors, some of which are:

How to Start a Restaurant in Dubai?

Opening a restaurant in Dubai requires strict compliance with the city’s food code, which applies to all types of eateries, whether you talk about a restaurant, a hotel, or even a cafe. This code establishes industry standards that are important and necessary for your establishment’s success. 

Here are some of the factors we have gathered to give you an overview of how to start your own catering business and convert your dreams into reality.

Preparing Financial Expenses Before Opening a Restaurant

Starting a restaurant needs a lot of money. So, it's important to plan these costs from the beginning to avoid problems. Anyone who wants to open a restaurant or join the restaurant business should understand these financial aspects.

Major costs include license, rent or cost of the property, legal permits, training costs of employees, software used in the daily running of the business, insurance, and cash needed for day-to-day operations.  Managing these initial investments properly is crucial for a restaurant's success in Dubai.

Get Licenses for Opening a Restaurant in Dubai

Starting a restaurant in Dubai requires getting specific licenses to make sure about legal compliance and operational efficiency. Here’s a detailed look at the essential permits and steps to get them:

Trade License

• Define the type of restaurant operation in the license.
• Costs vary depending on the restaurant type, typically ranging from AED 30,000 to AED 40,000.
  
  

Steps to Get a Trade License

Below are the steps to get a trade license

• Determine the nature of the business (commercial, professional, or industrial).
• Designate legal status and register a trade name.
• Apply for initial approval.
• Lease a corporate office.
• Prepare the required documents.
• Submit final approval application to the DED.
  
  

Get the Food License Approval

• Issued by the Food Safety Department after obtaining the Trade License.
• It requires the submission of specific documents and restaurant layout details.
  
  

Documents Required for Food License

• Copy of the trade license.
• Interior design layout blueprint, including:
• Entry and exit passages.
• Food processing and storage areas.
• Windows, ventilation system, and dish washing spaces.
  
  

Documents Required for Restaurant Business in Dubai

Here is a list of documents required to start a business in Dubai and get a restaurant license.

• Passport-size photo.
• Passport Copy
• Entry Permit
• Restaurant layout (if needed)

Cost of Opening a Restaurant in Dubai 

Restaurant expenses can vary significantly depending on the type of restaurant you want for yourself. In Dubai, opening a restaurant typically costs between AED 200,000 and AED 350,000. (Prices may vary depending on multiple factors)

This includes all running costs like company licensing, renting space, and getting necessary permits. Every restaurant has different financial needs, so planning carefully is key for a smooth start and ongoing success.

Conclusion

Owning a restaurant in Dubai is no less than a hustle itself. To make your business profitable, you need to plan a proper strategy. If you are new in this business and want to learn more about things that you should know before opening a restaurant in Dubai, click here. We hope this guide has helped you understand the basic cost of opening a restaurant in Dubai.