Dubai’s thriving culinary scene makes it a prime destination for aspiring coffee entrepreneurs. With a diverse population, steady influx of tourists, and growing demand for specialty coffee, starting a coffee shop business in Dubai is more than a commercial venture—it’s a gateway to joining the city’s vibrant café culture. At NH Management, we guide you through every step of launching your coffee shop—from licensing to operations—with expertise and ease. If you’re considering starting a coffee shop business in Dubai, the city’s thriving café culture presents an exciting and profitable opportunity

Why Start a Coffee Shop in Dubai?

Dubai offers the perfect blend of opportunity, infrastructure, and international exposure for food and beverage businesses. As the café culture flourishes, entrepreneurs can tap into:

• A cosmopolitan customer base

• Tax-friendly policies and business-friendly regulations

• High footfall in key retail and tourist areas

• Growing demand for specialty coffee and unique café experiences

Opening a coffee shop in Dubai combines passion with profitability in one of the most dynamic F&B markets in the world. Understanding the financial investment required for starting a coffee shop business in Dubai is essential to plan effectively and avoid surprises.

Cost of Starting a Small Coffee Shop Business in Dubai

The startup cost for a small coffee shop in Dubai typically ranges between AED 140,000 and AED 200,000, depending on your location, fit-out, branding, and staffing needs. Here’s what’s included:

• Commercial rent and tenancy contract

• Interior design and equipment setup

• Staff recruitment and salaries

• Marketing and brand development

• Legal fees and government approvals

At NH Management, we help you plan your budget effectively and avoid hidden costs during the setup process. Staying informed about fees ensures your journey to starting a coffee shop business in Dubai is financially prepared and compliant.

Step-by-Step Process to Open a Coffee Shop in Dubai

Opening a coffee shop in Dubai requires careful planning and regulatory approvals. Here’s how NH Management simplifies the process:

1. Choose a Trade Name
   Select a business name aligned with UAE naming guidelines.

2. Prepare Your Documentation
   Collect essential documents including passport and visa copies of shareholders.

3. Apply for Pre-Approval
   Submit your initial application to the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED).

4. Ensure Facility Compliance
   Your location and layout must meet the Food and Safety Department’s design standards.

5. Secure Your Location
   Sign a tenancy agreement and register the property under Ejari.

6. Sign MOA/LSA Agreement
   Complete legal paperwork and submit to the DED for final approval.

7. Obtain Final Approvals
   Receive an authorization letter from Dubai Municipality and the Food Safety Department.

NH Management ensures each step is handled with precision, reducing delays and eliminating guesswork.

Coffee Shop License Cost in Dubai

To operate legally, you’ll need two licenses:

• A coffee shop trade license from the DED (or free zone authority)

• A food license from the Dubai Municipality Food Safety Department

The cost of a coffee shop license in Dubai typically ranges between AED 15,000 and AED 30,000, depending on factors like:

• Business structure (sole establishment, LLC, etc.)

• Location (mainland vs. free zone)

• Size and scale of operations

We provide detailed cost breakdowns and full licensing support to keep your project on track.

Documents Required to Get a Coffee Shop License in Dubai

Prepare the following to ensure a smooth application process:

• Comprehensive business plan

• Passport and visa copies of the owner/shareholders

• Three name choices for your trade license

• Tenancy contract (Ejari)

• NOC from your sponsor (if applicable)

Our team will verify and submit all documents on your behalf.

Benefits of Opening a Coffee Shop in Dubai

Setting up a coffee shop in Dubai offers several business advantages:

• Access to a diverse and affluent customer base

• Opportunities to build a strong brand presence in high-traffic areas

• Zero income tax and minimal corporate tax for many business structures

• World-class infrastructure and logistics

• A dynamic food culture open to new concepts and experiences

With the right support, your café can quickly become a local favorite.

From selecting the right location to meeting food safety standards, starting a coffee shop business in Dubai involves strategic decisions that NH Management can help simplify.

Why Choose NH Management?

NH Management is your dedicated partner in launching your coffee shop business in Dubai. Our services include:

• Trade name registration and license acquisition

• Legal documentation and regulatory approvals

• Facility compliance with food and safety regulations

• Ongoing advisory for business scaling and growth

Whether you’re launching your first venture or expanding an existing brand, we offer tailored business setup solutions designed to simplify and accelerate your success.

Start Your Coffee Business with Confidence

With NH Management, your dream of owning a coffee shop in Dubai is within reach. We manage the paperwork, permissions, and planning—so you can focus on creating a memorable customer experience.

Take the first step toward starting a coffee shop business in Dubai with expert support from NH Management.

Contact us today at info@nhmanagement.com or call +971 4 222 1327 to schedule your consultation. Let’s bring your coffee vision to life in the heart of Dubai.