Starting a Food Truck Business in the UAE: A Guide to Permits and Regulations

With the UAE's pleasant winter weather and bustling food markets, entrepreneurs are finding food trucks an appealing business opportunity. These mobile eateries, offering everything from ice cream to gourmet burgers, have become a trendy alternative to traditional restaurants. Here’s a detailed guide to getting started with a food truck business in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

Dubai: Food Truck Permits

In Dubai, the Dubai Municipality oversees the regulation and issuance of food truck permits.

Types of Permits:

• Non-Mobile Permits: For trucks operating in a fixed location year-round.
• Event-Specific Permits: For trucks participating in temporary events.

Key Requirements:

• Applications for event-specific permits must be submitted at least three working days before the event.
• Non-mobile trucks require a space contract and a valid trade license issued in Dubai.
• Trucks must comply with Dubai’s Food Code for sourcing, storage, and preparation.

Documents Needed:

• Non-objection certificate (NOC) from the landlord.
• Approvals from Dubai Municipality’s Planning and Drainage departments.
• A registered trade license specific to the truck's location and activity.
• Registration on Dubai Municipality’s FoodWatch platform, detailing food items, handlers, and layout.

Cost and Validity:

• Permit fee: AED 160.
• Processing time: 1 day.
• Validity depends on the lease duration or event period.

Rejection Reasons:

• Unregistered location on FoodWatch.
• Poor food inspection grades (D or F).
• Missing contracts or permits.

Sharjah: Mobile Food Truck Permits

Sharjah residents can apply for food truck permits via the Sharjah Executive Council.

Eligibility:

• UAE citizens.
• Individuals, private companies, and local or federal entities.

Required Documents:

• Permit application form for mobile food trucks.
• NOC or agreement letter in Arabic from the landlord.
• Approvals from relevant authorities, including the municipality and police.
• Photo of the truck and its planned location map.

Cost and Processing Time:

• Permit fee: AED 3,000.
• Processing time: 1 day.

Abu Dhabi: Mobile Food Truck Permits

Food truck permits in Abu Dhabi are handled through the TAMM platform.

Permit Types and Costs:

• Event-based permits: AED 500 per event per month.
• Annual permits: AED 3,000.

Documents Needed:

• A detailed company letter.
• Photos of the truck from all angles.
• Approval from the Department of Municipalities and Transport or other site-investing authorities.

Important Guidelines:

A single license can support up to three vehicles.

• Trade names must match the Arabic name on the commercial license.
• Trucks must meet food safety standards and be manufactured for food sales.
• General Rules and Prohibitions
• Trucks cannot block public roads or obstruct traffic.
• Activities are limited to approved locations.
• Outdoor seating and unauthorized advertisements are prohibited.
• Trucks must maintain site cleanliness and follow specific regulations for event participation.
• Starting a food truck in the UAE offers a flexible and profitable venture. By adhering to emirate-specific rules and maintaining high standards

 For any enquiries or information, contact [email protected] or call us on +971 52 644 3004. Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels