How to obtain an alcohol license for a restaurant in Dubai, UAE

How to obtain an alcohol license for a restaurant in Dubai, UAE - Makebiz

Opening a restaurant in the UAE that serves alcoholic beverages is a strictly regulated process that requires careful study of the legislation. It is important to understand that obtaining a corporate license to sell alcohol goes beyond the scope of a standard restaurant license. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the main stages and nuances that entrepreneurs will encounter.

After obtaining the main license for restaurant activities, it is necessary to submit a separate application for an alcohol license to the regulatory authorities. 

It is worth paying attention to the main steps:

1. Choosing a location. 

Not every area of the UAE allows the sale of alcohol. Your restaurant must be located in a specially approved area, such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, and other similar areas where establishments with alcohol sales permits operate. This is a crucial step that requires consultation with specialists to understand the full list of areas available for consideration and to find a location for your business.

2. Preparing the premises.

The law strictly regulates the distance between the restaurant and certain facilities. The minimum permissible distance to residential buildings, schools, kindergartens, and mosques is 150 meters. Failure to comply with this requirement will automatically result in the license being denied.

Before submitting an application, it is important to ensure that the premises are registered in the Ejari system, the UAE’s electronic rental contract registration system. The landlord must also provide an official letter of consent for the sale of alcoholic beverages on the rented premises.

3. Collecting a package of documents and drawing up a floor plan. 

Obtaining a food business permit from the municipality is mandatory. To do this, you will need to prepare a detailed floor plan that complies with health and safety regulations. The plan must take into account zoning, the location of the kitchen, storage rooms, and guest service areas.

4. Additional approvals.

  • Approval from the Department of Economy and Tourism. If you plan to play loud music, hold live performances, or other events with musical accompaniment, you will need a separate permit from the DED. Requirements for volume levels and event times are strictly regulated.
  • Approval from the municipality if you wish to open a summer terrace in addition to the café. Requirements include preparing an exterior plan with zoning, number of tables, etc. 

After the license is approved, the company is assigned a monthly alcohol purchase limit. It is calculated individually based on the size of the restaurant, its format, and estimated sales. Regular monitoring of compliance with the limit by the police is inevitable.

The license imposes a number of restrictions:

  • The sale of alcohol to persons under the age of 21 is strictly prohibited. 
  • Advertising of alcoholic beverages on signs, banners, etc. is prohibited.
  • Keeping accurate records of alcohol stocks is a mandatory requirement. The accounting system must be transparent and easily accessible for inspection by police officers. Any non-compliance can lead to serious consequences.
  • Alcoholic beverages may only be served when ordering food from the menu. The sale of alcohol “to go” or without food is prohibited.
  • The sale of alcohol is permitted only during strictly defined hours established by law. 

Obtaining a license to sell alcohol in the UAE is a lengthy process that requires a detailed understanding of the specifics of the legislation. Makebiz specialists will help you gather the necessary documents, go through all the necessary procedures, and ensure compliance with all legal requirements. Failure to comply with the rules can result in serious fines and license revocation. Therefore, thorough preparation and professional support are the keys to success. Sign up for a free consultation and learn more about how to obtain a license to sell alcohol in a restaurant.

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