Dubai’s dining scene is thriving, and fast food businesses are at the heart of it. From burgers and fries to shawarma and smoothies, people love convenience and quick bites. If you’re planning to start a fast food restaurant, the first step is obtaining a valid fast food license in Dubai, UAE.
This article explains everything you need to know—license types, setup process, costs, and more—to launch your fast food venture with confidence.
Why Start a Fast Food Business in Dubai?
Dubai is a multicultural city where food is more than just a meal—it’s a lifestyle. With its fast-paced environment, busy professionals, and huge tourist traffic, quick-service restaurants are always in demand.
Here’s why it’s a smart move:
- High footfall in malls, business areas, and tourist zones
- Growing demand for affordable, quick meals
- Strong local and expat customer base
- Rising trend of online food delivery
- Lower startup cost compared to fine dining
From kiosks to drive-thru outlets, fast food fits perfectly into Dubai’s vibrant food culture.
What Is a Fast Food License in Dubai?
A fast food license is a trade license that legally allows you to operate a quick-service restaurant in Dubai. It is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in partnership with Dubai Municipality.
With this license, you can:
- Serve hot and cold food items quickly
- Offer takeaway and delivery services
- Operate small dine-in spaces (optional)
- Participate in food festivals and events
It’s ideal for businesses like burger joints, fried chicken shops, shawarma stalls, pizza outlets, and other limited-menu food concepts.
Types of Fast Food Licenses in Dubai
Dubai offers two main types of fast food licenses: Mainland License and Free Zone License. A mainland license allows you to operate anywhere in Dubai and serve the general public. A free zone license suits cloud kitchens or delivery-only models but limits customer access outside the designated free zone area.
Mainland Fast Food License
Issued by the DED, this license allows you to open your restaurant in any location in Dubai, including:
- Streetside outlets
- Food courts
- Commercial buildings
- Tourist hubs
With a mainland license, you can serve the general public, partner with delivery apps, and expand to other branches easily.
Free Zone Fast Food License
Some free zones allow food-related activities, especially for delivery-only kitchens or cloud kitchen setups. However, you cannot operate a public-facing outlet outside the free zone.
Free zone licenses are suitable for:
- Online food delivery brands
- Ghost kitchens
- Business parks or staff cafeterias
For full exposure and citywide reach, the mainland license is recommended.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Fast Food License in Dubai
To get a fast food license in Dubai, you must choose a trade name, decide on your business structure, get initial approval from DED, secure a commercial space, register the lease with Ejari, obtain food safety approval from Dubai Municipality, and submit all required documents. Pay the fees to receive your license.
Choose Your Trade Name
Pick a unique, brandable name for your fast food outlet. It must follow UAE naming rules and avoid religious or political terms.
Decide on Legal Structure
Common legal structures include:
- Sole Proprietorship (single owner)
- LLC (Limited Liability Company) for partnerships
- Civil Company for professionals
An LLC is most common for food businesses due to liability protection and flexibility.
Get Initial Approval from DED
Submit your trade name and business activity for initial approval. This shows that the DED has no objection to your business plan.
Rent a Commercial Location
Find a shop space in a commercial zone. It should meet the basic infrastructure required by Dubai Municipality for food establishments.
Register Ejari
Once your lease is signed, register the tenancy contract with Ejari. This validates your shop location.
Apply for Food Safety & Health Approval
Submit your kitchen layout, hygiene plan, and facility design to Dubai Municipality’s Food Safety Department. They will inspect:
- Kitchen space and ventilation
- Storage areas and drainage
- Waste disposal system
- Fire safety and pest control measures
Submit Final Documents and Pay Fees
Prepare your complete file with:
- Passport copies
- Trade name certificate
- DED initial approval
- Ejari
- Food safety clearance
- Tenancy contract
Once submitted, pay the required fees and receive your fast food restaurant license.
Documents Required for Fast Food License in Dubai
You’ll need:
- Passport and visa copies of owners
- Emirates ID (if resident)
- Trade name reservation
- Initial approval certificate
- Ejari certificate
- Tenancy contract
- Floor plan/layout
- Food safety approval from Municipality
All documents must be valid and consistent with your license application.
Cost of a Fast Food License in Dubai
The total cost depends on the location, restaurant size, and equipment. Here’s an average breakdown:
| Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
| Trade License Fees | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Shop Rent (Annual) | 30,000 – 150,000+ |
| Interior Fit-Out & Equipment | 40,000 – 100,000+ |
| Kitchen Setup & Safety Equipment | 20,000 – 70,000 |
| Government Approvals | 3,000 – 5,000 |
Total Cost Range: AED 100,000 – AED 250,000+
Premium locations like malls or main streets may cost more but offer higher returns.
Menu Restrictions and Add-ons
The standard fast food license lets you serve:
- Hot and cold fast food
- Snacks and finger foods
- Juices and soft drinks
- Coffee or tea (optional)
To serve desserts, baked goods, or ice cream, add extra activities to your license.
If you want to sell pre-packaged drinks or snacks, include retail activity permissions too.
Hygiene and Safety Standards for Fast Food Outlets
The Dubai Food Code is strictly enforced by authorities. Your outlet must:
- Use approved cooking appliances
- Provide clean storage and handling areas
- Maintain staff hygiene (uniforms, gloves, hairnets)
- Dispose of waste responsibly
- Keep the kitchen well-ventilated and fire-safe
Staff must have valid health cards and pass food safety training.
Can You Operate a Food Truck with This License?
No, a food truck business requires a separate mobile food license and permissions from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Municipality.
However, your fast food brand can be expanded into a food truck under a new application.
Delivery and Online Sales
With a valid license, you can:
- Partner with delivery apps like Talabat, Deliveroo, and Careem
- Accept online orders
- Offer pre-orders and scheduled pickups
- Launch your own ordering app or website
Make sure your packaging follows food safety and labeling laws.
Can You Sell from a Home Kitchen?
No. UAE regulations prohibit selling cooked food from home without proper commercial approval. All food businesses must operate from commercial kitchens with inspections and licenses.
For small brands, consider setting up in a cloud kitchen or shared commissary kitchen.
Hiring Staff for Fast Food Restaurants
You can hire:
- Cooks and food handlers
- Service staff and cashiers
- Cleaners and delivery riders
Each employee must:
- Hold a residence visa under your license
- Undergo medical tests and training
- Be issued a municipality health card
Labor laws and visa quotas must be followed during hiring.
Marketing Ideas to Grow Your Fast Food Brand
- Launch your social media pages with deals and visuals
- Offer combo meals and student discounts
- Join delivery platforms and get featured
- Set up digital menus and contactless payment
- Participate in food festivals and pop-up markets
Franchise vs. Independent Fast Food Business
You can choose to:
- Start your own fast food brand
- Buy a food franchise in Dubai
Franchises come with:
- Branding and recipes
- Pre-approved menus
- Training and system support
But they involve:
- High initial franchise fees
- Ongoing royalty payments
- Less creative freedom
Independent brands offer more flexibility but require more effort in marketing and operations.
Conclusion
Getting a fast food license in Dubai, UAE is a strategic move for entrepreneurs who want to tap into a growing, high-demand industry. Whether you plan to open a burger joint, sandwich shop, or healthy wrap counter, Dubai offers a supportive business environment with strong potential.
From choosing the right license to passing health inspections and attracting customers, every step matters. For a smooth, compliant setup, it’s wise to seek expert help from professionals experienced in Dubai’s F&B sector.
Build your brand, serve great food, and grow confidently with the right support for your Business Setup in Dubai, UAE.
FAQs
Can a foreigner open a fast food outlet in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can own 100% of the business under the new business ownership laws in most cases.
What is the cost to get a fast food license?
The total cost ranges from AED 100,000 to AED 250,000, depending on size, location, and setup.
Can I open a fast food kiosk in a mall?
Yes, but you’ll need approval from the mall management and proper documentation for setup.
Do I need Dubai Municipality approval?
Yes, food safety clearance from Dubai Municipality is mandatory for all food businesses.
Can I operate a home-based fast food business?
No. All food businesses must operate from a licensed commercial space.
What is the validity of the license?
Trade licenses are valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Can I offer delivery and takeaway with this license?
Yes, delivery and takeaway are included in fast food activities if approved during licensing.
Can I add desserts and drinks later?
Yes, but you’ll need to update your license with additional business activities.
How long does it take to get the license?
With all documents ready, the process usually takes 7 to 14 working days.
Who can help me with the process?
Business setup consultants in Dubai can handle licensing, approvals, and location setup for your fast food business.
