A Simple Guide to Securing a Tea Shop License in Dubai

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When you think about the Cafe scene in Dubai, most of your attention will be drawn towards the many coffee shops that dot the urban areas, but what many people overlook is the humble tea shop. But, if you are reading this SetHub Guide, this means that you are one of the few entrepreneurs who have realized the potential of setting up a tea shop in Dubai! Keep reading as we discuss everything you need to know about setting up a business of this nature, from the process of obtaining a license for a tea shop to the tea shop license cost in Dubai.

Why Open a Tea Shop in Dubai?

A good cup of tea has a special place in Dubai’s social dynamics. Whether it is the traditional karak chai spots to tea lounges more suited to high-end consumers, everyone in Dubai drinks tea! So it is clear that the demand is high. All you need is a proper business plan and a legally obtained tea shop license to get into this market.

Steps to Get a Tea Shop License in Dubai

If you follow the simple steps that we have outlined for you below, you will be able to understand how to get our tea shop business running in Dubai.

1. Choose Your Business Model

Before you apply for a license for a tea shop, you must decide whether your tea shop will be in the mainland area of Dubai or within a free zone. Since you will be catering to the general population of Dubai who are end consumers and not other businesses, you should select the mainland option. 

2. Name Your Business

Your tea shop will need to have a catchy name to attract attention! In Dubai, some strict rules apply to naming companies. Make sure you abide by them by not including any references to religion or political groups. Consider using your name to give your brand a personal touch, for example, “Abdul’s Tea House”.

3. Apply for Initial Approval

Next comes the time to apply for initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) since you will be setting this business up on the mainland. If for some reason you have gone with the free zone option, then this initial approval will have to be obtained from the relevant free zone authority.

4. Find the Best Location

Location is everything when it comes to a business like a tea house. This can define your success or failure as a tea shop business. Make sure the space you go with complies with the Dubai Municipality regulations, including health and safety standards. Setting inside a shopping mall may also be a good idea, as long as you have secured all the additional requirements from the mall management.

5. Obtain Food Safety Approvals

As a tea shop, you will be in the business of selling consumable items. Therefore, you will need to get a clearance from the Food Safety Department in Dubai. They will grant you several approvals. These will include a food license approval, kitchen layout approval to ensure proper hygiene, and a trade name approval confirming your shop’s name.

6. Submit Your Trade License Application

Now that you have come this far in the process, you can finally apply for your tea shop license. To do this successfully, you will need to provide a list of documents:

  • Initial approval certificate
  • Business plan (in some cases)
  • Rental agreement for your shop
  • Health and safety approvals

7. Get Your Tea Shop License Cost in Dubai Sorted

There is no fixed figure when it comes to the tea shop license cost in Dubai. It will vary based on location, size, and approvals that your tea shop has obtained. The figures we have listed below are general guidelines so you have a rough idea of what to expect:

  • The Trade license fee will cost between AED 10,000 and 15,000
  • Food safety and health permits will set you back another AED 3,000 to 5,000
  • Rental costs may be anywhere in the range of AED 40,000 and up (depending on location)
  • Sponsorship (if required): AED 8,000–12,000 annually

8. Final Inspections and Approval

Once all these documents have been submitted to and approved by the authorities, an inspection will be carried out to make sure that it meets the health and safety regulations. Once you receive this green light, your tea shop license will be on its way to you!

Additional Considerations for Your Tea Business

Visa and Staffing

If you plan to hire employees, you’ll need work permits and visas for them. A tea shop license typically allows you to apply for employee visas depending on your business size.

Marketing and Branding

Once your license for a tea shop is in place, branding and marketing will be key. Dubai’s market is competitive, so leveraging social media and collaborations with food delivery platforms can help you gain visibility.

In Conclusion,

Starting a tea shop in Dubai is an exciting opportunity, but you must go through the legal steps to obtain a tea shop license before opening your doors. Consider your location, approvals, and the tea shop license cost in Dubai when planning your business. Once you have your license for a tea shop, focus on delivering high-quality tea and a great customer experience.

How Can SetHub Help?

If you are sure that you want to start a tea shop in Dubai, but aren’t too sure about certain specifics (for example, if you should do so on the mainland or in a free zone) reach out to us at SetHub. After a quick call with one of our experts, our team will put together the right strategy for you and revert with some tailored advice. Every entrepreneur has different goals and visions, along with varied capital capabilities. This is why we evaluate everything to offer you what will work for you! This high level of personalized service is the reason why we have become the preferred business setup consultant in Dubai. Schedule a call now and feel the SetHub Difference!

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