Dubai’s culinary landscape is ever-evolving. The food and beverage industry in Dubai is undergoing a rapid change with a demand for healthy, authentic, and customised food options. This demand in the food industry in Dubai has encouraged many home-based entrepreneurs to enter into the thriving homemade food business. Also, there is a growing demand for food delivery services. The homemade food business has leveraged Dubai food delivery service. If you are planning to turn your passion of cooking into a business, starting a homemade food delivery business in Dubai can be a rewarding experience. In this article we will learn in detail about the requirements and how to get a license for your homemade food delivery business.
Back to topRequirements for a Homemade Food Delivery Business In Dubai
To establish a successful food delivery business in Dubai, you must meet certain operational and regulatory requirements. The food industry in Dubai also requires compliance with specific health and safety standards. Some of the key requirements include:
Food license
The first and most important requirement is the food license in Dubai from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DDED) under the business activity ‘homemade food delivery’.
Food Safety Approval
Getting an approval from the Dubai Municipality - Food Safety Department is mandatory to start your Dubai food delivery service. It ensures your business is compliant with hygiene and safety requirements.
Online Presence
The next requirement for your business is to be a part of an efficient delivery platform or set up a social media account for ordering and customer engagement.
Order Tracking System
Your homemade food delivery business in Dubai must have a live order tracking system. It will lead to efficient customer service as your customers will be able to track their orders in real time.
Efficient Delivery Logistics
Another important requirement to run a homemade food delivery business in Dubai is to partner with an efficient delivery service. The delivery service must have trained drivers who are equipped with smartphones for a safe, timely, and efficient delivery.
Brand Registration
Ensure your home cooked food delivery business has an appropriate brand name and logo. Brand registration helps protect your business’ ’s intellectual property and also helps in advertising purposes.
Back to topA Guide to Getting a License for a Homemade Food Delivery Business in Dubai
Obtaining a food license in Dubai is mandatory for setting up a food business. A homemade food delivery business incorporation in Dubai is a streamlined process that involves the following steps:
Step 1: Choose the Jurisdiction and Business Structure
The first step in starting your homemade food business is to decide on the jurisdiction that will be beneficial for your business. You can choose to set up your business in the mainland or free zones based on the benefits that they will provide your business. Include factors such as ownership, tax benefits, operational flexibility, set up costs, among others to make your decision. Based on the jurisdiction, identify the business structure that will suit your needs. You can choose to set up as a sole proprietorship or a partnership or a limited liability company (LLC).
Step 2: Register Business Name
The next step for your homemade food delivery business in Dubai is to choose an appropriate business name. The name must comply with UAE’s naming conventions. You can also check the availability of your business name through the Dubai DED portal or your chosen free zone authority. After all conditions are met, register your business name through the Dubai DED portal.
Step 3: Get Initial Approval
The next step is to get an initial approval from the Dubai DED. The authority will issue a no-objection certificate (NOC) as part of the initial approval. It indicates that the government has no objection to your homemade food delivery business in Dubai.
Step 4: Choose the Business Location
The next step is to choose the location of your cloud kitchen. The kitchen should meet the requirements set by the Dubai municipality - Food Safety Department. The location of the cloud kitchen should also comply with the zoning laws set by Dubai Municipality.
Step 5: Gather the Documents and Pay Fees
To obtain the commercial trade license in Dubai for your food business, gather the necessary documents like copies of NOC, lease agreement, business plan, and approval from additional authorities. Pay the required fees in the Dubai DED portal.
Step 6: Collect the License
You can now collect your commercial trade license to run your homemade food delivery business. You can collect the license from Dubai DED or your respective free zone authority depending on the chosen jurisdiction.
Whether you are into traditional dishes, healthy meal plans, or specialty foods, the home cooked food delivery business in Dubai is a great opportunity for food entrepreneurs. The streamlined business registration process will help you stay compliant and gain a competitive edge in the food and beverage market in the Emirate. Contact us if you also want to serve delicious meals from home by starting your culinary journey. Experts at Commitbiz will help you navigate the regulatory requirements to operate your homemade food delivery business setup in Dubai smoothly and sustainably.
Back to topIs it mandatory to have food safety training to run a homemade food business?
Yes, at least one person involved in food preparation must have completed a certified food safety training course approved by the Dubai Municipality.
What is the FoodWatch platform in Dubai and is it necessary to register there?
Foodwatch is a cutting-edge digital platform for food safety and nutrition by Dubai Municipality to facilitate data exchange between authorities, food businesses, service providers and consumers. It is necessary to register all food businesses on the platform.
Is insurance required for my homemade food business?
Business liability insurance is highly recommended for homemade food business. It can cover you in case of food-related issues, delivery mishaps, or property damage.
