How to Start a Food and Beverage Business in Dubai
The food and beverage industry in Dubai is one of the most lucrative sectors, holding investments worth over 142 billion AED. With an astounding average growth rate of 71.6% annually, this industry continues to expand rapidly across the Emirate. Given that Dubai is home to more than 200 ethnicities, the demand for diverse cuisines is enormous. This creates an immense potential for entrepreneurs to tap into the culinary arts industry and offer unique gastronomic experiences to Dubai’s multicultural populace.
Steps to Open a Food and Beverage Establishment in Dubai
Setting up a food and beverage business in Dubai requires meticulous planning and adherence to specific procedures. Partnering with a reputable business setup consultant in Dubai, like Cross Link International, can simplify the entire process. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the process:
1. Choose and Register a Unique Business Name
One of the first steps in setting up your F&B business is deciding on a unique name for your company. If you wish to operate under a different name for your business and your restaurant, you’re allowed to do so. For instance, you could name your company “The Japanese Corner” while branding your restaurant as “The Sushi Souq.” A business setup expert can guide you in ensuring that your chosen name adheres to Dubai’s naming conventions.
Keep in mind the following naming rules:
- Company names cannot include religious references.
- Names must not contain country names or suggest affiliations with specific nations.
- Terms like “International” cannot be used as the first word in your business name.
2. Gather and Submit the Required Documents
The next critical step involves preparing and submitting the necessary documents, such as the Articles of Association, for your business setup. You will also need to secure a suitable office space that complies with Dubai Municipality’s criteria for F&B establishments.
3. Meet Dubai Municipality’s Criteria for F&B Establishments
Dubai Municipality has laid down specific requirements to ensure safety, hygiene, and functionality in food establishments. These criteria include:
- Allocating a separate area for meat preparation.
- Ensuring the kitchen occupies at least 40% of the total establishment area or has a minimum size of 300 sq. feet (380 sq. feet if an oven is included).
- The kitchen should be at least 200 sq. feet or 40% of the seating area for cafeterias.
- Bakeries and tea stalls require kitchens with a minimum size of 200 sq. feet and 100 sq. feet, respectively.
- Dishwashing and vegetable cleaning must be done in separate areas.
- Installing designated sinks with hot and cold water facilities.
- Ensuring proper ventilation and fireproof materials for walls, roofs, and floors.
- Providing adequate illumination.
- Using stainless steel racks and stands for holding dishes.
- Maintaining drainage pipes at least two inches away from walls.
- Properly securing doors and windows to prevent rodent infestations.
A professional business setup consultant can assist you in securing an Ejari (tenancy contract) and preparing the required blueprints for submission to the Dubai Economic Department (DED).
4. Adhere to Dubai’s Food Code
To ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards, you must follow the Food Code set by Dubai’s Food Safety Department. This code mandates that every kitchen has a certified Food Safety Officer approved by the department. This step is crucial for meeting regulatory requirements and maintaining a high standard of food safety.
Why Partner with a Business Setup Consultant?
Navigating the process of establishing a food and beverage business in Dubai can be challenging. A trusted consultant not only manages the business setup process but also provides valuable insights into selecting the best location in the UAE for your establishment. Additionally, they can help you with licensing, documentation, and municipality approvals, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
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If you have these tips crossed off your checklist, you’re good to go! Get in touch with us at +971 4321 6631 to setup your business in Dubai!
