Start a Catering Business in Dubai, UAE

Dubai’s dynamic food and hospitality industry, with a wide variety of cuisines, is world-renowned. From traditional Arabic delights to international culinary expeditions, the city offers diverse culinary options. Besides, the assorted population and a thriving tourism sector fuel the demand for new and innovative food ventures. This presents a highly lucrative entrepreneurial opportunity for aspiring food entrepreneurs to start a catering business in Dubai.

Additionally, the catering companies in Dubai are in constant demand due to the events, weddings, and corporate gatherings that are frequent across the city. So, if you are thinking of capitalizing on this booming industry, this guide will guide you with all the information required to start a small catering business in Dubai, helping you set up your culinary project with proper compliance and efficiency.

Is the catering business profitable in Dubai and across the UAE?

Yes, starting a catering business in Dubai is worthwhile. However, the success of the business exclusively depends on its scale, pricing strategy, and operational efficiency. According to the industry reports, The UAE’s culinary market has high-profit potential which is set to grow from USD 23.21 billion in 2025 to USD 52.76 billion by 2030. The report also suggests that the food service market is expected to grow at a 17.84% CAGR during 2025-2030.

Additionally, there are several other reasons to choose Dubai for your food venture –

Booming Hospitality and Event Industry:

Dubai has a thriving hospitality and event sector with thousands of events taking place each year, such as conferences, weddings, parties, etc. This creates a continuous demand for catering services.

Diverse and Multicultural Market:

Dubai is home to a cosmopolitan population from over 200 nationalities. Every person has a unique taste and food preference. This creates a perfect opportunity for food entrepreneurs to offer a diverse, multi-cuisine food service in Dubai that caters to mixed crowds.

Supportive Business Environment and Infrastructure:

With the streamlined business registration process, strong logistics infrastructure, and government-backed initiatives, new entrepreneurs can easily obtain a catering business license in Dubai. Additionally, working with the Dubiz consultants can help navigate regulatory requirements, licensing, and compliance effortlessly.

Regulated Licensing Ensures Quality and Trust:

Dubai has stringent policies and regulations, especially when it comes to the food business. Catering businesses are required to operate under a valid license to legitimize the business. Similarly, the food safety regulations of Dubai Municipality ensure hygiene and quality, enhancing the brand reputation and service reliability.

Expanding Market for Catering Services:

The catering market of the UAE is projected to grow steadily in the coming years. Food entrepreneurs, especially new entrants aiming for long-term success, can leverage this growth and capitalize on scalable opportunities.

Access to Local and International Markets:

Obtaining a catering license in Dubai allows you to tap into both local and international markets, thereby unlocking avenues to expand the business, cater to a wider audience, and increase revenue streams.

Eligibility for Government Support and Incentives:

Catering businesses in Dubai can access various government support programs, incentives, and grants, which are not limited to financial support but also include training programs and participation in government-sponsored events and trade shows.

Streamlined Operations and Risk Management:

Dubai has established clear guidelines and protocols for food handling, storage, and preparation, which enable businesses to implement safety measures and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and contamination. This ensures a safe and hygienic environment for both customers as well as employees.

Enables Expansion and Diversification:

Within the business-friendly ecosystem of Dubai, you can easily expand your catering ventures and add new products or services. Moreover, you can branch out your services into new locations across the UAE.

Licenses and permits required to start a catering business in Dubai

As a catering business owner, you will require several licenses and approvals to comply with local regulations.

• Trade License:- This is a primary license issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)/ Department of Economic Development (DED) to entrepreneurs who wish to start a catering business in Dubai.
• Food License:- The Food Safety Department of Dubai Municipality issues this license to catering businesses, confirming their compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Dubai Municipality:- Dubai Municipality grants a No Objection Certificate (NOC) based on the business’s compliance with food handling and safety standards, permitting the owner to set up a central kitchen or catering facility.
• Kitchen Approval & Health and Safety Permits:- This approval from Dubai Municipality ensures that the kitchen meets hygiene and safety standards, including proper ventilation, drainage, and pest control measures.
• Vehicle Permit for Food Transportation (If applicable):- This permit, granted by Dubai Municipality, is optional. Only those businesses that plan to deliver food using vehicles must acquire a vehicle permit.
• HACCP Certification (Highly Recommended):- The Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification is essential for large-scale catering operations to ensure that they comply with food safety standards.

Steps to start a catering business in Dubai

Here is the process of starting a catering business in Dubai:

Step 1: Define Your Business Model and Services

Determine the type of catering services you want to offer. For example, healthy, ethnic, or luxury catering for weddings, corporate events, private parties, etc. This will give you clarity and direction to move forward.

Step 2: Choose the Right Legal Structure and Jurisdiction

Choose the right legal structure and jurisdiction. You can either start on mainland or in Dubai freezone, as per your business requirements.

Likewise, choosing the right structure is also equally important as it impacts your visa eligibility, taxation, and ability to scale. Partnering with Dubiz consultants will ensure that your licensing process is compliant and tailored to your business objectives.

Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name

Select a unique and appropriate trade name that aligns with your business activities. Reserve it through the Department of Economic Development (DED).

Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval

Secure initial approval from the concerned authority as a green light to proceed with licensing and other formalities for your small catering business in Dubai.

Step 5: Rent a Commercial Kitchen Facility

As per the guidelines of Dubai Municipality, catering ventures are required to operate from a certified commercial kitchen, that too keeping hygiene and safety regulations in mind. Shared kitchen facilities are a great alternative to reduce initial costs.

Step 6: Get Food Safety and Municipality Approvals

Submit the kitchen layout to Dubai Municipality for approval, maintain proper ventilation and storage facilities, and follow strict hygiene practices to effectively secure your catering business license in Dubai.

Step 7: Finalize License Application and Pay Fees

Submit all required documents along with license application, including the tenancy contract for the kitchen facility, trade name certificate, food safety clearance, and ID proof for approval. Once approved, receive your license.

Step 8: Hire Staff and Register for Labor & Immigration

A successful catering business requires qualified chefs, kitchen staff, and servers. Hire employees as per your requirement and register with the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) and General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

Step 9: Launch and Market Your Services

After obtaining the catering business license, start marketing your business through online media, event collaborations, and promotional packages.

Documentation requirements

Here is the list of general documents required for the catering business in Dubai:

• Trade Name Reservation Certificate
• Initial Approval Certificate
• Memorandum of Association (MOA)
• Tenancy Contract
• Trade license
• Food License
• Occupational Health Cards
• Vehicle Permit for Food Transport (If required)
• Liquor License (If needed)
• Valid passport copy and Emirates ID
• Business Plan

Cost of setting up a catering business in Dubai

The small catering business license cost in Dubai starts from AED 12,500*. However, the overall catering business setup cost is determined based on the jurisdiction selected for setup, activities, additional approvals, kitchen space rent, equipment, technology, staff remuneration, and marketing expenses.

Contact us for a detailed breakdown of the small catering business license cost in Dubai.

Factors to consider while planning a small catering business in Dubai

Like any other business, a catering business also requires careful planning, preparation, and administration. The success of a project lies in the effort and dedication of a team, where each member contributes their expertise for sustained growth.

For a catering business in Dubai, the authorities have laid down specific rules and regulations depending on the type of activity. A catering license is the most crucial element of this business. In addition, there are certain other factors to focus on while setting up a catering venture in the emirate:

• Target Audience: Identify your target customers and who you want to cater to. Your food must appeal to their target audience. Besides, the nature of the event may modify the menu. For instance, the demand for cuisines in a corporate event may be different from that in a private party. Hence, narrow down the audience to shape your menu and food items.
• Accepting Orders: Order management is crucial in a catering business. For instance, how will you receive the orders, through telephone, walk-ins, or online platforms? If you plan to accept online orders, invest in a reliable app or a website. However, if you opt for walk-ins, you will require physical office space. To offer food delivery services, you need to obtain a food delivery license in Dubai as required by the law.

What’s Your USP? What differentiates your business from other catering businesses in Dubai? What is your strategy to attract more customers? Your unique selling proposition (USP) will help build a strong brand presence.

Conclusion

With a growing population, a booming event scene, and increasing demand for diverse culinary experiences, Dubai continues to be an epicentre for food entrepreneurs, including catering businesses. From small private gatherings to grand corporate functions, the city hosts all kinds of events, generating plentiful opportunities for catering services to gain popularity through their diverse culinary skills and efficiency.

However, to operate legally and productively, you require proper setup, licensing, and compliance, and a thorough understanding of local regulations, food safety requirements, and market dynamics.

Embark on your culinary journey to Dubai with Dubiz

Dubiz specializes in company formation services tailored to different sectors and industries. Our experts offer deep industry knowledge, transparent pricing, and personalized guidance to ensure that every legal requirement is met quickly and efficiently, so that you can build and run a successful catering business in Dubai.

Book a free consultation with Dubiz experts.

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485

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📧 Email: info@dubiz.co

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