Restaurant and Food Truck Licence in Dubai: Approvals, Costs and Steps

A food truck license Dubai application involves more than a trade licence. Food businesses need food-safety approvals, compliant equipment and permission to trade at a location. This guide sets out each approval for restaurants, cafés and food trucks.

Quick answer: Trade licence (DET) → layout / vehicle approval (Dubai Municipality) → food-handler training → inspection → location or event permit.

Which licence does a food business need?

For café-specific costs see cafeteria licence cost; for delivery-only kitchens see cloud kitchen in Dubai.

Step 1: Trade licence

Apply to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism for initial approval and trade name, then complete the licence once premises and approvals are in place. Read commercial licence for structure options.

Step 2: Dubai Municipality food safety approvals

Dubai Municipality's food safety department reviews kitchen layout or vehicle specification, equipment and hygiene arrangements, then inspects before operation. See Dubai Municipality for current requirements.

Step 3: Food handler training

Staff handling food generally need approved food-safety training and health checks.

Step 4: Location and event permits (food trucks)

Food trucks need permission for where they trade — designated sites, private land with the owner's consent, or event permits. Vehicle-related approvals may involve the Roads and Transport Authority.

What drives the cost

• Premises rent or vehicle purchase and fit-out.
• Kitchen equipment meeting municipality standards.
• Licence, approvals and inspections.
• Staff visas and training.

We do not quote a single price because fit-out dominates and varies widely.

Common mistakes

• Signing a lease before layout approval.
• Buying a truck that cannot meet specifications.
• Trading at events without a permit.

Next step

Plan your concept and location, then explore business setup in Dubai and compare packages for F&B activities.