How to Get a Food License in Dubai: Steps and Costs

Starting a food business in Dubai requires navigating a comprehensive licensing process that ensures compliance with the emirate’s stringent food safety standards. Based on our experience helping over 500 food businesses establish operations in Dubai, this guide provides you with everything you need to know about obtaining a food license in 2025.

Understanding Dubai’s Food License Requirements

A food license in Dubai is a mandatory legal permit issued by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED)  in collaboration with Dubai Municipality . This license authorizes businesses to import, export, distribute, manufacture, or sell food products within Dubai’s jurisdiction.

In practice, we’ve found that businesses often underestimate the complexity of Dubai’s dual-authority system, where both DED and Dubai Municipality play crucial roles in the licensing process.

Types of Food Licenses Available in Dubai

Commercial Food Trading License

• Purpose: Import, export, and wholesale food distribution
• Typical businesses: Food importers, distributors, wholesalers
• Cost range: AED 15,000 – 25,000

Food Manufacturing License

• Purpose: Production and processing of food products
• Typical businesses: Bakeries, food processing plants, beverage manufacturers
• Cost range: AED 25,000 – 50,000

Restaurant and Catering License

• Purpose: Food service establishments
• Typical businesses: Restaurants, cafes, catering companies, food trucks
• Cost range: AED 20,000 – 35,000

Retail Food License

• Purpose: Direct-to-consumer food sales
• Typical businesses: Supermarkets, grocery stores, specialty food shops
• Cost range: AED 18,000 – 30,000

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain Your Food License

Step 1: Business Activity Selection and Trade Name Registration

Begin by selecting your specific food-related business activity from the DED’s approved list. Based on our experience, choosing the right activity code is crucial as it determines your licensing requirements and operational scope.

1. Reserve your trade name through DED’s online portal
2. Ensure the name complies with UAE naming conventions
3. Pay the trade name reservation fee (AED 620 – 2,000)

Step 2: Secure Office Space and Location Approval

Dubai mainland food businesses require a physical office space with a valid Ejari (tenancy contract). In practice, we’ve found that location selection significantly impacts both licensing costs and operational success.

Office space requirements:

• Minimum 100 sq ft for basic operations
• Compliance with Dubai Municipality zoning regulations
• Annual rental costs: AED 15,000 – 100,000+ depending on location

Step 3: Obtain Initial DED Approval

Submit your initial application to the Department of Economic Development:

Required documents:

• Passport copies of all shareholders
• UAE residence visa copies
• Business plan outlining food operations
• Lease agreement for office space
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsor (if applicable)

Processing time: 3-5 working days
Cost: AED 1,000 – 3,000

Step 4: Dubai Municipality Food Safety Permits

This is where our expertise in food safety compliance becomes invaluable. Dubai Municipality requires several specific permits:

Food Safety Permit Application

• Detailed kitchen layout plans
• Equipment specifications and certifications
• Food safety management system documentation
• Staff training certificates

Health and Safety Compliance

• Food handler health cards for all staff
• Pest control service agreements
• Waste management protocols
• Water quality certificates

Processing time: 7-14 working days
Cost: AED 2,000 – 8,000

Step 5: Specialized Approvals (If Required)

Depending on your food business type, additional approvals may be necessary:

Step 6: Final License Issuance

Once all approvals are obtained:

1. Pay final license fees to DED
2. Receive your commercial license
3. Register with Dubai Chamber of Commerce
4. Obtain establishment card

Total processing time: 2-4 weeks
Final license cost: AED 10,000 – 15,000

Complete Cost Breakdown for Dubai Food License 2025

Based on our analysis of current market rates, here’s a comprehensive cost breakdown:

Basic License Costs

• Trade name registration: AED 620 – 2,000
• Initial approval fee: AED 1,000 – 3,000
• DED license fee: AED 10,000 – 15,000
• Dubai Municipality permits: AED 2,000 – 8,000
• Chamber of Commerce registration: AED 1,200 – 3,000

Operational Setup Costs

• Office rent (annual): AED 15,000 – 100,000+
• Security deposit: AED 5,000 – 20,000
• Ejari registration: AED 500 – 1,000

Visa and Staffing Costs

• Investor visa: AED 4,000 – 7,000
• Employee visas: AED 3,000 – 5,000 per person
• Health insurance: AED 1,500 – 5,000 per person annually

Total estimated cost range: AED 15,000 – 50,000

Note: Costs vary significantly based on business type, location, and specific requirements.

Common Challenges and Expert Solutions

Challenge 1: Complex Documentation Requirements

Our solution: We maintain updated checklists for each food business category and provide document templates to ensure compliance.

Challenge 2: Multiple Authority Coordination

Our approach: Simultaneous application processing with both DED and Dubai Municipality to reduce timeline by 30-40%.

Challenge 3: Food Safety Compliance

Expert tip: Invest in proper food safety training and documentation from the start. In our experience, businesses that cut corners on food safety face costly delays and potential license rejections.

Dubai Food License Renewal Process

Food licenses in Dubai require annual renewal:

Renewal Requirements

• Updated trade license
• Current food safety certificates
• Staff health card renewals
• Pest control service renewals
• Updated insurance policies

Renewal Costs

• License renewal fee: AED 1,000 – 2,000
• Municipality permit renewal: AED 500 – 1,500
• Additional inspections: AED 500 – 1,000

Pro tip: Begin renewal process 60 days before expiration to avoid penalties.

Free Zone vs. Mainland Food License Comparison

For comprehensive information about free zone options, explore our guides on Dubai free zones and business setup costs.

Industry-Specific Licensing Considerations

Restaurant and Café Licenses

• Additional seating area approvals required
• Fire safety certificates mandatory
• Music and entertainment permits (if applicable)
• Average total cost: AED 25,000 – 40,000

Food Manufacturing Licenses

• Industrial zone location requirements
• Environmental impact assessments
• Quality control system certifications
• Average total cost: AED 35,000 – 60,000

Food Import/Export Licenses

• Customs registration mandatory
• Product registration with Dubai Municipality
• Cold storage facility approvals (if required)
• Average total cost: AED 20,000 – 35,000

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a food license in Dubai?

Based on our experience, the complete process typically takes 3-6 weeks, depending on business complexity and document readiness.

Can I operate a home-based food business in Dubai?

Home-based food businesses require special permits from Dubai Municipality and must comply with residential zoning regulations. In practice, we’ve found that most successful food businesses benefit from commercial premises.

What happens if I operate without a proper food license?

Operating without proper licensing can result in fines ranging from AED 5,000 to AED 50,000, business closure, and potential legal action.

Do I need a local sponsor for a food business?

Since 2021, many food business activities allow 100% foreign ownership. However, some specific activities may still require local sponsorship. For detailed guidance on mainland vs. free zone options, consult with licensing experts.

Can I add food activities to my existing business license?

Yes, you can amend your existing license to include food-related activities, subject to approval and additional fees.

What are the ongoing compliance requirements?

• Annual license renewals
• Regular health inspections
• Staff health card renewals
• Food safety training updates
• Pest control service maintenance

Expert Tips for Success

1. Start early: Begin the licensing process 2-3 months before your planned opening date
2. Invest in compliance: Proper food safety systems save money long-term
3. Choose location wisely: Consider both licensing requirements and business potential
4. Maintain documentation: Keep all certificates and permits current and easily accessible
5. Plan for growth: Consider future expansion when selecting your initial license type

For businesses looking to optimize their setup costs and explore various emirate options, our comprehensive guide on UAE business setup costs provides valuable insights.

Conclusion

Obtaining a food license in Dubai requires careful planning, proper documentation, and compliance with multiple regulatory authorities. While the process may seem complex, with over 15 years of experience in UAE business setup, we’ve streamlined these procedures to help food entrepreneurs launch successfully.

The investment in proper licensing—typically ranging from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000—provides access to one of the world’s most dynamic food markets. Dubai’s strategic location, diverse population, and growing tourism sector create exceptional opportunities for food businesses that meet the emirate’s high standards.

Remember that licensing is just the beginning. Ongoing compliance, quality maintenance, and customer satisfaction are key to long-term success in Dubai’s competitive food industry.

Ready to Launch Your Food Business in Dubai?

Inlex Partners brings over 15 years of expertise in UAE business setup and licensing. Our specialized food industry team has successfully guided hundreds of restaurants, cafes, food manufacturers, and trading companies through Dubai’s licensing process.

Why choose Inlex Partners for your food license?

• Proven track record: 500+ successful food business setups
• End-to-end service: From initial consultation to final license issuance
• Regulatory expertise: Deep knowledge of DED and Dubai Municipality requirements
• Cost optimization: Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
• Ongoing support: Post-licensing compliance and renewal services

Our comprehensive food licensing package includes:

• Business activity consultation and optimization
• Trade name registration and approval
• DED license application and processing
• Dubai Municipality permits and approvals
• Office space assistance and Ejari registration
• Visa processing for investors and employees
• Bank account opening support
• Ongoing compliance management

Contact our food industry specialists today:

Phone/WhatsApp: +971 52 956 8390
Email: office@inlex-partners.com

Don’t let complex licensing procedures delay your food business dreams. Partner with Dubai’s most trusted business setup experts and turn your culinary vision into reality.

Get your free consultation today and discover how we can fast-track your food license approval while ensuring full regulatory compliance.