The popularity of the food trucks in Dubai has grown significantly in recent years. It’s an efficient business idea that lets you start a food chain or brand easily and on a small budget. The profits, on the contrary, are huge.
To start your business, you need to acquire a trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) along with HACCP certification and a food truck license in Dubai from Dubai Municipality. This ensures the quality of production and business in the UAE.
Understanding Food Truck Business Model
The idea is simple. You cook and serve food to customers, except you’re operating from a vehicle instead of a permanent location. This saves a lot of money and provides quick service. It’s a small business idea that can be scaled and transformed into a food chain across the country or a restaurant with a permanent place, given you have established enough consumer base. It’s possible through good food and effective marketing.
Specific Laws Related to Food Trucks in Dubai
- You cannot cook food inside the truck; only pre-cooked food from a central kitchen is allowed.
- Every truck needs its own trade license and permits; one license doesn’t cover multiple units.
- You can only operate in approved locations; random parking is not allowed and can lead to fines.
- Menu must be submitted for approval by Dubai Municipality before starting operations.
- All staff must have health cards issued by Dubai Municipality after medical screening.
Why is this Business Setup Getting Popular?
Life in the city is becoming faster by the day. Everybody needs quick fixes to their problems, including hunger. With delicious food around the corner that you can easily take away in minutes, who needs to visit the expensive restaurants every day? These businesses are especially famous among street food lovers and newer generations like Gen-Z.
Top Locations to Start a Business in Dubai, UAE
While the location can be flexible, you still have to get permission from each authority of the area to operate there. This means that you can select a few suitable locations and focus on those spots. Choosing the right location is important and should be guided by data. See which location has the most people who love your menu.
Here are a few areas perfect for a food business:
– JBR (The Beach)
– Global Village (tourist hub)
– Al Seef (heritage & waterfront spot)
– Business Bay (corporate lunch crowd)
– Dubai Parks and Resorts (entertainment complex)
– Expo City Dubai (mega events and fairs)
Choose a location that suits your business and try to build a brand identity around that area.
Steps to Start a Food Truck Business in Dubai
Research the Market and Choose a Concept
Research the market trends and competition. Come up with a business plan with a unique touch that is marketable and has the potential to beat the competition. Decide the type of food you’ll serve.
Register Your Business and Get Initial Approvals
Register your business with the Department of Economic Development and get the approval from Dubai Municipality. Get the certification from HACCP and apply for any additional approvals you may require from institutions such as Dubai Electricity and Water Authority.
Get Food Safety and Vehicle Permits
Get food safety and vehicle permits from Dubai Municipality and Roads & Transport Authority (RTA). These are important to keep your business out of trouble and running.
Buy or Modify Your Truck
Get a brand new truck or modify one to suit your needs. You can also rent a truck. Make sure to consult the vehicle specifications and requirements for food trucks in the UAE.
Secure Operating Locations and Menu Approval
Select the locations you will operate in. Get approval from the area authority. You may need to acquire some other approvals as well, based on the type of food you prepare and the menu your food truck offers.
Hire Certified Staff and Finalize Setup
Hire the required staff. You may need professionals for food preparation, driving, or advertising. Having obtained a food truck permit, approvals, and getting your food truck a nice look, you’re all set to start operating.
Launch and Market Your Business
Start the operations. Experiment with different food menus, locations, and advertising strategies. Spend some budget on marketing as it’s a deciding factor in business success. If you’re having issues during the business setup process, you can get in touch with IBG Consulting to streamline the process for you.
Requirements to Get a Food a Truck License in Dubai
- Trade license from Dubai Economic Department (DED)
- Approval from Dubai’s Municipality for food safety and kitchen layout
- Vehicle modification approval from Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
- Contract with a certified central kitchen (no on-truck cooking allowed)
- Health cards for all food-handling staff
- Approved truck branding and advertising permit from RTA
- Menu approved by the Municipality of Dubai
- Waste management plan and fire safety equipment
- Location-specific permits for operating zones
Food Truck Business License Cost in Dubai
| Essential Expenses | Estimated Cost (AED) | Notes |
| Trade License (DED) | 13,000 – 19,000 | Required to legally register the business |
| Food Safety & Municipality Approval | 2,000 – 3,000 | Includes kitchen layout, menu approval |
| RTA Permit & Truck Modification Approval | 1,500 – 2,500 | Needed for design and mobility compliance |
| Staff Health Cards (Min. 2 Staff) | 1,000 – 2,000 | Mandatory for all food-handling staff |
| Location/Operating Permit | 3,000 – 5,000 | Zone-based or event-specific permissions |
Benefits of Starting a Food Truck Business in Dubai
- Lower startup cost compared to starting a restaurant
- Tax-free income, with no corporate or personal tax.
- High daily revenue potential, from AED 1,000 to AED 10,000.
- Profit margins range from 20% to 40%.
- 100% foreign ownership in free zones.
- Flexible locations, such as events or tourist areas.
- Popular at festivals and expos, boosting sales.
- Fewer staff needed, reducing overheads.
- Strong demand from millennials, expats, and tourists.
- Easy expansion, with opportunities for multi-truck fleets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What type of business license do I need to start trading in the mobile food space in Dubai?
To operate legally, you’ll need a truck business license in Dubai that covers your specific business activity. This license is issued by the relevant authorities, and additional clearances may be required based on your business concept.
2. How do I go about obtaining a food truck license in Dubai?
Obtaining a food truck license involves submitting an application to the Dubai Economic Department, followed by approvals from the food safety department and other regulatory bodies. A business setup consultant can help simplify this process.
3. Can I start a business in Dubai that sells food from a mobile unit without cooking on-site?
Yes. Dubai’s food safety standards require meals to be prepared in a central kitchen. The truck only allows heating or assembling. Food prep directly inside the vehicle is not allowed.
4. How much does it cost to get a truck business license in Dubai?
License cost in Dubai depends on multiple factors such as location permits, safety approvals, and vehicle modifications. Costs typically range between AED 20,000 to AED 30,000 for the entire business setup in Dubai.
5. Do I need a detailed business plan before launching a food unit on wheels?
Absolutely. A detailed business plan is essential to understand your target market, pricing, and compliance. It also helps in choosing the right locations and scaling your venture later.
6. Where can I park and operate my unit legally in Dubai?
You must get approval to park your food truck in designated food truck parks, business districts, or near food festivals. Random parking is not allowed and could lead to penalties.
7. Who regulates the mobile food industry in Dubai?
The DED and the Municipality of Dubai jointly oversee permits, safety, and location compliance. They ensure all operators meet Dubai Municipality’s food safety regulations and legal standards.
8. What staffing requirements should I know before I start a business in Dubai?
Employees must pass medical screenings and hold valid health permits. Also, staff roles should be clearly defined based on whether they serve food, drive, or manage the operation.
9. Can foreign nationals own a business in this sector in the UAE?
Yes, Dubai allows 100% foreign ownership in some zones. You can even register as a sub-entity under the main business if expanding or testing this catering truck concept.
10. What are the benefits of launching a food concept on wheels versus a restaurant?
This route allows for flexible locations, lower initial investment, and faster market entry. It’s a great way to enter the food industry, build a customer base, and later scale into permanent venues if desired.
