All You Need to Know About Food Truck in UAE: License, Requirements & More

Shahba Mayyeri -

As the weather improves, the UAE is witnessing a surge in outdoor markets and food festivals, providing a golden opportunity for budding entrepreneurs to showcase their culinary talents. The UAE, known for its diverse population, is a growing hub for entrepreneurs, particularly those in the food industry, as it caters to a wide range of cuisines from around the globe.

While opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant can be a complex and costly process, food trucks are emerging as a trendy and flexible alternative. These mobile eateries, offering everything from ice cream to gourmet burgers, have become increasingly popular in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Entrepreneurs can operate food trucks from various locations, provided they comply with the respective emirate's regulations and obtain the necessary permits.

Dubai

In Dubai, the Dubai Municipality is responsible for issuing food truck permits, both for events and permanent locations. Entrepreneurs seeking to operate a food truck in Dubai must follow specific guidelines to ensure food safety and meet licensing requirements.

Key Requirements for a Food Truck Permit in Dubai:

  • Event-based trucks: Applicants must ensure their food suppliers are licensed, and the layout of their food preparation areas adheres to Dubai's Food Code. Trucks must also maintain proper facilities for storing, preparing, and displaying food safely.
  • Non-event trucks: Business licenses must be issued, and applicants need to provide a contract with the location's owner if the truck will operate permanently.
  • Registration: All food trucks must be registered on FoodWatch, Dubai Municipality’s platform for food safety.

The process involves submitting documents such as a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the landlord, approval from Dubai Municipality’s planning and drainage departments, and a registered trade license for the food truck's location.

The cost for obtaining a food truck permit in Dubai is Dh160, and the permit is typically processed within one day. For non-event-based permits, the validity depends on the leasing contract, with the maximum duration being one year.

Sharjah

In Sharjah, the permit process is handled through the Sharjah Executive Council's website. This service allows individuals, private companies, and local entities to apply for a mobile food vehicle permit.

Applicants must provide various documents, including a request letter, a no-objection letter from the landlord, and a map showing the vehicle's location. The cost for the permit is Dh3,000, and it takes up to one day for processing.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi offers two types of food truck permits—monthly and yearly—through the TAMM platform. Monthly permits are priced at Dh500, while yearly permits cost Dh3,000. Entrepreneurs must submit detailed documentation, including photos of the vehicle and approval from relevant authorities like the Department of Municipalities and Transport or ADNOC.

Important guidelines include obtaining approval for parking locations, ensuring the truck meets food safety standards, and complying with advertising regulations. Applicants must also ensure that the trade name on the truck is written in Arabic, as per the commercial license.

News Source: Khaleej Times