How to get Restaurant license in Abu Dhabi, UAE? Procedure, Documents required, Cost, Eligibility

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What is the license to obtain to start a Restaurant in Abu Dhabi, UAE?

Trade License: Apply for a trade license from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED). This license allows you to operate a business in Abu Dhabi legally.
Food License: Obtain a food license from the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA). This license ensures that your restaurant meets the health and safety standards the authority sets.
Municipality Approval: Seek approval from the Abu Dhabi Municipality for your restaurant’s location, layout, and compliance with building codes and regulations.
Alcohol License (if applicable): If you plan to serve alcohol in your restaurant, you must apply for an alcohol license from the relevant authority, such as the Department of Tourism and Culture or the Abu Dhabi Alcohol License Bureau.
Civil Defense Approval: Obtain approval from the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority to ensure that your restaurant complies with fire safety regulations and has adequate firefighting and safety systems.
Environmental Health and Safety Approval: Obtain approval from the Abu Dhabi Environment Health and Safety Center (EHS) to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Staffing and Employment Permits: Ensure you have the necessary permits for hiring staff, such as work visas, labor contracts, and health insurance coverage.

List of approvals required to get a Restaurant license in Abu Dhabi, UAE?

Business Plan:

Develop a comprehensive business plan for your restaurant, including details about your concept, menu, target market, marketing strategy, and financial projections.

Choose a Location:

Identify a suitable location for your restaurant in Abu Dhabi that complies with zoning and licensing regulations. Ensure that the premises meet the required size and infrastructure criteria.

Trade Name Approval:

Select a unique trade name for your restaurant and obtain approval from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED). This can be done online through the DED’s official website or through their customer service centers.

Obtain Initial Approval:

Submit the required documents, such as your business plan, lease agreement, and trade name approval certificate, to the Abu Dhabi DED. They will review your application and grant initial approval if everything is in order.

Food License Application:

Apply for a food license from the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA). This involves submitting the necessary documents, including your trade license, menu, kitchen layout, and details about food storage and handling practices.

Municipality Approval:

Obtain approval from the Abu Dhabi Municipality for your restaurant’s layout and health and safety regulations compliance. This involves submitting architectural drawings, floor plans, and other relevant documents.

Civil Defense Approval:

Obtain approval from the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority by submitting necessary documents related to fire safety measures, firefighting systems, and emergency exits.

Abu Dhabi Approvals

With AD approvals, you can now get building approval

Environmental Health and Safety Approval:

Obtain approval from the Abu Dhabi Environment Health and Safety Center (EHS) by complying with environmental regulations and guidelines.

Hiring and Staffing:

Ensure you have the necessary permits for hiring staff, such as work visas, labor contracts, and health insurance coverage. Adhere to labor laws and regulations related to employing staff in Abu Dhabi.

Final Inspections and Approvals:

Once all the required documents and approvals are obtained, the relevant authorities will conduct final inspections of your premises to ensure compliance. If everything is satisfactory, you will be issued the restaurant license.

Documents Required

Business Plan: A detailed business plan outlining your concept, menu, target market, marketing strategy, and financial projections.
Trade Name Approval Certificate: Proof of approval for your restaurant’s trade name from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED).
Lease Agreement: A copy of the lease agreement for the premises where your restaurant will be located.
Menu: A comprehensive menu showcasing the food and beverages that will be offered at your restaurant.
Kitchen Layout and Equipment List: Detailed kitchen layout plans and a list of equipment to be used in the food preparation area.
Food Safety Management System: Documentation demonstrating that you have implemented a food safety management system in compliance with the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) guidelines.
Health and Safety Guidelines Compliance: Documentation demonstrating compliance with health and safety regulations, including guidelines related to food storage, hygiene practices, waste management, and pest control.
Architectural Drawings and Floor Plans: Detailed architectural drawings and floor plans of the restaurant premises, including dining areas, kitchens, restrooms, and other facilities.
Fire Safety Measures: Documentation and plans related to fire safety measures, such as firefighting systems, fire alarms, emergency exits, and evacuation plans, to obtain approval from the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority.
Environmental Health and Safety Compliance: Documents demonstrating compliance with environmental regulations, such as waste management plans and certificates of compliance with environmental health and safety standards from the Abu Dhabi Environment Health and Safety Center (EHS).
Trade License: A copy of the license obtained from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED).

Eligibility to apply for a Restaurant license in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Legal Entity: You must establish a legal entity to operate your restaurant, such as a limited liability company (LLC) or a sole proprietorship. This involves registering your business with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED).
Location and Premises: You need to have a suitable location for your restaurant that complies with zoning regulations and meets the requirements set by the authorities. The premises should have the necessary facilities, space, and infrastructure to operate a restaurant.
Ownership and Sponsorship: If you are a foreign investor, you must have a local Emirati sponsor or partner who holds at least 51% ownership of the business, as per the UAE’s commercial company law. However, there are specific free zones in Abu Dhabi where full foreign ownership is allowed.
Professional Qualifications: It is not mandatory to have specific professional qualifications to apply for a restaurant license in Abu Dhabi. However, having relevant experience and knowledge in the restaurant industry is beneficial.
Financial Capacity: You should have sufficient financial resources to support your restaurant’s establishment and ongoing operations. This includes covering expenses related to licenses, permits, lease agreements, staff salaries, and other business costs.
Compliance with Health and Safety Regulations: Your restaurant must comply with health and safety regulations, including food handling and storage guidelines, to ensure the safety and well-being of customers.
Compliance with Local Regulations: You must adhere to local laws, regulations, and guidelines related to business operations, labor, taxation, and other relevant aspects.

Cost of getting a Restaurant License in Abu Dhabi, UAE

A restaurant license is easily secured, and package fees begin at AED 9,600.
A trade license will cost you between 40,000 and 30,000 AED.