How to Start a Food Truck business in Dubai

Eating delicious food is fun, and running a food business is even more exciting. In recent years, the food business sector has been witnessing innovations and business models that are simply unbelievable. The concept of food truck business in Dubai is one of them!

Talking about UAE’s food culture, it is as vibrant as the nation itself. For those who have a passion for food or simply love treating others, starting a food truck business in UAE is a dream come true. However, it is not just a dream but something easily achievable when approached the right way.

As a food truck owner on the bustling streets of Dubai, you can enjoy running your restaurant on wheels and bring the fun of catering to life. Let us explore this amazing food business idea in Dubai in detail and understand its process, requirements, and what it actually takes to get started in Dubai.

UAE F&B market overview – worth to enter?

Before diving into the food truck business itself, let us take a quick look at the food and beverages industry in the UAE. Among the entire Middle East region, the UAE has consistently been leading the F&B market.

By 2028, the revenue of the F&B industry is expected to grow at a rate of 4.86 percent. One of the key factors contributing to this growth is the increasing influx of tourists. Given the richness of the market, it captures the attention of both local and international food enthusiasts.

Additionally, it is highly driven by the nation’s affluent population, the large expat presence, and the presence of top food manufacturers and restaurants. With the growth of this sector, the opportunities for F&B entrepreneurs and investors to set up and expand in the thriving UAE food space are rapidly increasing and are definitely worth exploring.

Is starting a food truck in Dubai a good idea?

Starting a food truck business in Dubai is a 100% good idea. In fact, if you know the ins and outs of running a food cart business in Dubai, you can achieve great fame and success. Dubai’s culinary scene is bustling with food from around the world. Among the various business models for food and beverage businesses, starting a food truck stands out for many reasons.

Here are key benefits and features of starting a food truck in Dubai:

1. Low setup cost:

Compared to traditional restaurants and cafes, food trucks require less capital to set up. There are fewer infrastructural requirements, making it an appealing choice for startup entrepreneurs.

2. Street food demand:

The demand for ready-to-go, tasty food is high among locals, expats and visitors. The experience of ordering from a food truck itself is cherished by many.

3. Mobility:

A food truck is not restricted to one area and can be moved to high-demand locations such as events, gatherings, etc. Dubai government is supportive enough to allow food trucks to operate in crowded areas.

4. Less staff requirement:

Running a food truck typically requires fewer staff members, essentially a chef and caterers. This means there are significantly lower staffing costs involved.

5. Affordable food options:

Food trucks often serve affordable and unique cuisine items, making it more accessible to a wider range of customers and food lovers. This means a huge target market can be reached.

6. 100% ownership:

The government allows foreigners to have complete ownership of a food truck business in Dubai without the need for a local sponsor, especially in free zones.

7. Scaling opportunities:

Once a food truck gains success, it can be expanded by introducing more units, or over time, the brand can transition into a fully-fledged restaurant.

8. Festivals:

Dubai is known as the city of festivals, and being a food truck owner in Dubai gives you the opportunity to participate in them, targeting more and more customers.

9. Private events:

Whether it is a family, corporate or social event, Dubai is a hub for events. To make these events even more enjoyable, a good food truck that serves yummy food is always in demand.

10. Government support:

The Dubai government welcomes initiatives and startups, especially innovative concepts like food trucks. There are clear guidelines, requirements, and a simplified setup process for same.

Essential legal requirements for Dubai food truck business

Being aware of the legal requirements mandated by the UAE government for food truck businesses in Dubai will give you the confidence to proceed with the setup fearlessly. When you are well-informed, the chances of mistakes are reduced, and you will not face issues like delays or cancellations of your business setup in Dubai.

Go through the following list of legal essentials that you must tick off when starting a food truck business in Dubai:

1. Initial Approval:

Before you proceed with your Dubai food truck license application or any other approvals, you must get an NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the DED (Department of Economic Development) or the free zone.

The authority will examine your business plan, business name and selected activities. Then it will issue an initial approval, which acts as a green signal to move forward with the business setup process.

2. Trade License:

A UAE trade license is the primary legal authorization that will allow you to operate your food truck in Dubai. A Dubai food truck license must be obtained from the DED or the free zone of your choice.

3. Food Safety Permit from Dubai Municipality:

Dubai Municipality’s Food Safety Department will inspect your food truck and central kitchen to ensure they meet health and food safety standards. You must also submit detailed plans for your truck layout including kitchen design, storage facilities, sanitation measures and waste management systems. Once the authority is satisfied, they will issue you the food truck permit.

4. Vehicle License from RTA:

For your food truck, you must secure a vehicle license from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai. They will inspect the vehicle’s design and ensure it meets safety standards. The RTA is also responsible for regulating the mobility and parking of food trucks in Dubai.

5. Permit from DEWA:

For your food truck to have utilities like water and electricity, you must apply to the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and obtain their permit.

How to start food truck business in Dubai

Here are the steps for getting a food truck license in Dubai:

Step 1 – Research the market properly:

Solid research is mandatory for launching any kind of business. Understanding the market demands, target audience and existing competition helps you to launch with better strategies.

Similarly, for a food truck business Dubai, it is important to understand the local demand, where competitor trucks are already located, what they serve, etc. Based on market analysis, you can decide on your dishes, cuisine, service models, truck decor and how you can create exceptional services for customers.

Step 2 – Decide your business strategy:

Based on the market research, you will get a clear picture of what you should pursue. What kind of dishes will you serve? You must also choose the demographic you will target. Is it going to be a go-to for health freaks, a truck loved by children, or a truck where everyone finds something delicious? Next, you should also get an idea of where to place your truck.

Also, you must think of what unique value will you offer to your customers that will help you stand out in the market. It could be an exquisite dish, an unforgettable service experience or something else. By answering these questions, you can develop a robust business strategy.

Step 3 – Prepare your business plan:

Once you have made things clear in your head about the “how” and “what” of your business, you must put the ideas into words and numbers. This includes drafting a solid business plan that will outline your business concept.

When preparing the business plan, make sure to write things down in a simple and understandable manner. This plan must convince the government authorities why your business should be set up in Dubai. Here is what you should typically mention:

• Summary of business
• Company details
• Target market and marketing strategy
• Budgeting and financial projections
• Organizational structure
• Products offered
• Health and safety standards
• Storage and waste systems
• Staffing and operations plan
• Equipment plan
• Your USP

Step 4 – Register a trade name:

For your food truck business in Dubai, you must select a memorable and interesting name. The more unique the name, the less likely people will forget about it. However, it must comply with regulations of the UAE.

Also, a very fun yet strategic thing would be deciding the branding: the colours, logos, and visual appeals you will use for your food truck to make it unforgettable. Additionally, get your trade name registered in Dubai.

Step 5 – Arrange the food truck:

The primary investment for the business would be the food truck itself. Based on the budget and capacity you have, you must decide if you would purchase the vehicle or rent one. If purchasing, again you would have to decide if you would buy a new or an old one. While arranging the food truck, consider these points:

• Cost of the truck
• Facilities for storage and waste management
• Safety and health standards
• Kitchen appliances like fryers, refrigerators
• Preparation space

Your truck must comply with the standards set by the Dubai government.

Step 6 – Get all the approvals:

As we mentioned above in this blog, you have to be careful in securing the necessary licenses and permits for starting and running a food truck in Dubai. It includes:

• Initial approval from DED/freezone
• Food Safety Permit from Dubai Municipality
• Vehicle license from RTA
• Permit from DEWA

Step 7 – Decide and secure location permit:

Location plays a very crucial role for your food truck business in Dubai. While looking for places, you must consider areas like business districts, beaches, tourist spots, educational institutions and alike because these areas will have more traffic.

Also, when you decide the location, you must secure permission from either the local authorities or the property owners. For non-mobile food trucks, a formal space contract with the owner of the approved location is needed.

Networking can help you reach out to landlords. For operating in multiple locations or events, you must also get the mobile vending permit and specific permissions for each event.

Step 8 – Apply for the food truck license:

Once you have secured all the approvals, you can apply with the DED/freezone for the trade license for your food truck business that will allow you operate legally in Dubai.

Step 9 – Launch your business:

After you secure your food truck license in Dubai, it is time for the launch. Craft a yummy menu, special lunch combo offers and decide on the prices keeping in mind affordability. Leverage multiple marketing channels to spread awareness about your food truck.

Today is a digital world and UAE’s people are tech-savvy, so use social media platforms to reach out to them. Remember, virality is not luck but the result of consistent effort.

Step 10 – Ongoing compliance:

While running your business, make sure to always stay updated with the UAE’s laws and regulations pertaining to the food truck business in Dubai. Ensure you maintain the highest level of safety and health standards, use up-to-date technology and continuously train your staff on food safety and hygiene practices.

Understanding the costs for launching food truck in Dubai

The cost of starting a food truck in Dubai can range between AED 100,000* to AED 150,000*. Remember, this is subject to variation as there are many factors that decide the total cost of a food truck business Dubai. Typically, it includes the following expenses:

• Food truck license Dubai cost: AED 13,000* to AED 19,000*.
• Food truck cost in Dubai: From AED 35,000*
• Monthly rental fees: AED 15,000* to AED 25,000, depending on location
• Food truck permit from DM: Annual fee of AED 500*
• HACCP certification: Around AED 10,000*
• Insurance: Starting from AED 5,000*
• Other operational, trade name registration, RTA permits and approvals costs.

For more costing details, you can talk to our business setup consultant at Dubiz Business Setup.

Documentation for food truck license Dubai

Here is the list of documents and approvals you need to start your food truck business in Dubai:

• Trade license
• Business plan
• No Objection Certificate
• Food truck permit
• Food safety permit
• Truck layout plans
• RTA vehicle registration
• Location permit
• Location lease agreement
• Insurance

Documents needed for the business license application include:

• Filled application form
• Copy of passport
• Recent coloured passport-sized photographs
• Relevant certificates
• Proof of initial and external approvals

There may be more documents asked. Contact us for more personalized assistance.

How to make your food truck in Dubai stand out

There are some things, if you give proper attention to, that will help you flourish in the food truck space. When it comes to food, quality, customer experience and variety play a crucial role in determining success. Also, the health and safety of customers is always a top priority in such businesses, along with:

1. Customization and branding:

Make your food truck visually appealing. Invest in logos, decide vibrant colours and give your food truck as personality of its own.

2. Top notch equipment:

Always keep the latest and well-maintained equipment and appliances in your food truck.

3. Foodie destinations:

Choose locations where you can target large number of people. It may require thorough research.

4. Community engagement:

Participate in the local events and festivals, build a strong network and reach out to massive customers.

5. Competitive pricing:

Remember, everyone loves quality food at good prices. Try to keep your price range attractive.

Start your food truck business in Dubai with Dubiz

Having a food truck of your own in the busy streets of Dubai is not only exciting but also rewarding. Dubai is filled with people who love trying different food items. By serving them hot, fresh and delicious food on wheels, you can become their favourite.

For your business setup in Dubai, you can partner with Dubiz Business Setup. We will help you launch your food truck quickly and in the simplest manner. Food trucks need many approvals, but we can handle all of that.

We will provide you with licenses and permits in hand without you having to deal with paperwork and other formalities. Also, we can help you set up your business bank account, meet your visa requirements and more.

Call us today to discuss your UAE business setup needs:

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485

💬 WhatsApp: +971563695485

📧 Email: info@dubiz.co

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is food truck business profitable in Dubai?

Yes, food truck business is profitable and rewarding in Dubai. With proper planning and execution, you can gain huge success.

2. How much does starting a food truck cost in Dubai?

Starting a food truck business in Dubai will need a minimum investment of around AED 100,000* to AED 150,000*. However, the costs can vary based on your specific business nature, scale of operations, etc.

3. Can I park my food truck anywhere in Dubai?

Food trucks in Dubai have the flexibility of operating in multiple locations. However, they are required to secure the location permit from the municipal authorities or the property owner for operating at approved locations. They can also participate in events, for which they must additionally get the event permit.

4. How much do food truck owners earn in Dubai?

Successful food trucks in Dubai can expect to earn a 10% to 40% profit margin. The daily revenue depends on the popularity and location of the food truck.

5. What food truck locations are most successful in Dubai?

Any location with high footfall can be a successful location for a food truck business in Dubai. Some popular food truck locations in Dubai include:

• Dubai marina
• Kite beach
• Last Exit
• TruckersDXB
• Palm Jumeirah
• Downtown Dubai

6. Is HACCP certification mandatory for food businesses in UAE?

HACCP certification is a legal requirement for certain industries in UAE, including food businesses. It authenticates the safety and high quality of products.