March 18, 2026/
How Much Cost for Cafeteria License in Dubai (2026 Complete Guide) Starting a food business in Dubai is a profitable...
How Much Cost for Cafeteria License in Dubai (2026 Complete Guide)
Starting a food business in Dubai is a profitable opportunity, especially for small investors and entrepreneurs. One of the most common questions is: how much cost for cafeteria license in Dubai?
Understanding the full cost breakdown helps you plan your investment and avoid unexpected expenses. From trade license fees to setup costs, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start your cafeteria business successfully in 2026.
How Much Cost for Cafeteria License in Dubai?
The cost of a cafeteria license in Dubai depends on several factors such as location, business activities, and approvals.
👉 Estimated License Cost
AED 24,000 – AED 35,000 (basic trade license)
However, this is just the license fee. The total investment to start a cafeteria business is much higher.
Total Cost to Start a Cafeteria in Dubai
Here’s a complete breakdown:
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade License | 24,000 – 35,000 |
| Shop Rent | 30,000 – 100,000+ |
| Interior Setup | 50,000 – 150,000 |
| Equipment | 30,000 – 80,000 |
| Staff & Visas | 10,000 – 30,000 |
| Approvals & Permits | 5,000 – 15,000 |
Total Estimated Cost
AED 200,000 – 400,000+
Requirements for Cafeteria License in Dubai
To apply for a cafeteria license, you need:
Trade name registration
Initial approval
Ejari (tenancy contract)
Passport copies of owners
Food safety approval
Dubai Municipality approval
Step-by-Step Process Centres
Follow these steps to get your cafeteria license:
1. Choose Business Activity
Select cafeteria or small restaurant activity
2. Reserve Trade Name
Choose a unique business name
3. Apply for Initial Approval
Submit documents to authorities
4. Rent a Shop
Get Ejari registration
5. Get Food Safety Approval
Required for all food businesses
6. Receive Trade License
Final step to start your business
Hidden Costs to Consider
Many people only focus on the license fee, but don’t forget:
Municipality inspections
Utility deposits (DEWA)
Marketing & branding
Maintenance costs
Tips to Reduce Cafeteria Setup Cost
Choose a small location to save rent
Start with basic menu items
Buy used equipment (in good condition)
Work with experts to avoid delays
Why Choose Prodigy Group?
Starting a cafeteria business can be complex, but expert guidance makes it easy.
Prodigy Group helps you with:
Complete business setup
License processing
Documentation handling
Cost optimization
Conclusion
So, if you’re wondering how much cost for cafeteria license in Dubai, the answer depends on your business scale.
License cost starts from AED 24,000
Total setup can go up to AED 200,000+
With proper planning and expert support, you can launch your cafeteria smoothly and start generating profits.
Ready to start your cafeteria business in Dubai?
Contact Prodigy Group today and get expert assistance for a hassle-free setup!
FAQ's
Step-by-Step Process on How to Start a Small Cafeteria in Dubai
- Step 1: Build a Solid Plan. ...
- Step 2: Select a Legal Structure. ...
- Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name. ...
- Step 4: Find and Register Your Space. ...
- Step 5: Get Food Safety and Municipality Approvals. ...
- Step 6: Apply for Your Trade License. ...
- Step 7: Recruit Your Team and Process Visas
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