Set Up a Restaurant in Abu Dhabi

by Sweta Bose 28, Apr 2023

Millions of people travel to Abu Dhabi every year, whether for work or pleasure, and many of them take advantage of the city's thriving restaurant scene. There is no shortage of different restaurant kinds in Abu Dhabi, from delectable local food to worldwide favorites like Indian and Italian. 

The Emirate is home to a sizable international population. This is the ideal time to set up a restaurant in Abu Dhabi, with both tourism and business expanding once more after the pandemic.

All About Opening a Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 

There are several good reasons to locate your restaurant business in Abu Dhabi. The local economy is expanding swiftly and is anticipated to do so in the years to come. 

It is also a major tourist destination, particularly now that COVID-19 travel restrictions have been relaxed and people can once again travel without difficulty. In addition, Abu Dhabi has a strong gastronomic scene that is once again growing swiftly as more people desire to venture outside and take in the sights.

Tips to Keep in Mind before Opening a Restaurant

Mentioned below are some useful tips to keep in mind.

  1. Take Care of the Decoration

Your new restaurant's appearance will determine whether or not it can draw clients and keep them happy while they are there. Your company's furniture (tables, chairs, etc.) and decorative items must connect to its concept.

  2. Equip Your Restaurant

When opening an eatery in Abu Dhabi, you must take into account a number of equipment requirements.

  3. Choose Your Employees Wisely

To run your business smoothly, your hiring process has to be efficient.

  4. Construct a Business Plan

A business plan and a marketing strategy are of utmost importance.

  5. Research Your Clientele

You should always take care of your customer's needs.

How to Open a Restaurant in Abu Dhabi?

Here are some of the most important actions that restaurant business owners in Abu Dhabi should take. There are many other procedures as well for a restaurant business setup in Abu Dhabi.

  1. Decide on a Business Name

The first step is choosing a ‘trade name’ for your business following the prescribed government guidelines.

  2. Select a Location

The success of your business depends on where it is located; even if the best food is served, it will suffer if it is located in the incorrect area. Due to the high foot traffic in tourist regions, these areas are excellent locations. 

For the same reason, shopping centers make excellent locations. Choosing to base the company in one of Abu Dhabi's free zones is another factor to take into account. 

  3. Prepare the Necessities

Describe the company activities you planned for, e.g., cafe, restaurant, or any other related activities. You should also mention whether you want to open a dine-in restaurant or a delivery service to avoid any further delay for your license application.

  4. Obtain Your License

You need to submit the food license applications to the Food and Safety Department. The trade license applications must be submitted at the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, Department of Tourism, and Department of Commerce Marketing. 

You may also require to obtain any other specialized license depending upon your activity. For example, a liquor license will be required if you plan to operate sell, deliver, or serve the same..

  5. Finish the Visa Procedures

The procedure of obtaining the visa necessary to reside and work in Abu Dhabi is another crucial stage. Although the resident visa application forms are part of the process if you are establishing your restaurant business in a free zone, the appropriate immigration department should be contacted to make an application.

Cost of Opening a Restaurant in Abu Dhabi

Starting at AED 9,600*, the price of getting a license to open a restaurant in Abu Dhabi can differ and depends on a number of variables, which include the need for permits, the location of the restaurant, and the availability of visas.
Rent the property, hiring and training employees, obtaining visas, purchasing equipment like cookware and restaurant management software, insurance, stock, and a host of other expenses must all be taken into account.

*Please get in touch with Commitbiz for further details on the associated fees and to receive a customized quote.

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FAQs

What are some of the helpful tips to keep in mind before starting a restaurant in Abu Dhabi?

Some helpful tips are as follows:

  • Take care of the decoration
  • Equip your restaurant
  • Choose your employees wisely
  • Construct a business plan
  • Research your clientele.

What is the license cost to start a restaurant in Abu Dhabi?

The cost starts from AED 9,600*. The price of getting a license to open a restaurant in Abu Dhabi can differ and depends on a number of variables, which include the need for permits, the location of the restaurant, and the availability of visas.

What expenses must be taken into account while preparing for the cost?

Rent the property, hiring and training employees, obtaining visas, purchasing equipment like cookware and restaurant management software, insurance, stock, and a host of other expenses must all be taken into account.

Which are the concerned government authorities to submit the different license applications?

Food license applications must be submitted to the Food and Safety Department, whereas trade license applications must be made at the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, Department of Tourism, and Department of Commerce Marketing.