To start a coffee shop in the United Arab Emirates, decide Mainland vs Free Zone: choose Mainland (Dubai DED, Abu Dhabi DED) for street retail and delivery access; free zones restrict on-site sales to the zone unless you use a distributor or dual license. Secure commercial activity Coffee Shop/Cafeteria, reserve trade name, obtain initial approval, then sign a retail lease and register Ejari/Tawtheeq. Submit layout to Municipality Food Control (Dubai Foodwatch or ADAFSA in Abu Dhabi) for pre-fitout approval; install grease trap, mechanical ventilation/hood, handwash sinks, washable finishes, and pest-proofing per UAE Food Code; get Civil Defense NOC. Appoint a certified Person-in-Charge (PIC) in food safety, complete staff food handler training and medical fitness, and register in Foodwatch. After final inspection, obtain the trade license, signage and outdoor seating permits, open a corporate bank account, and register for VAT (mandatory >= AED 375,000 turnover; voluntary >= AED 187,500). Hire via MOHRE, set WPS payroll, and issue visas. Plan CAPEX and utilities: 3-phase power, water filtration, espresso machine spec, grease collection, waste and pest contracts. If roasting, add manufacturing activity and ESMA compliance. Onboard suppliers and delivery aggregators (20-35% commissions) and price menu accordingly. Allow 4-10 weeks from start to opening.
