How to Open a Bar in Dubai
Alcohol service is regulated in Dubai. Establishment licensing and operational approvals must align with the venue type, permitted activities, premises requirements, and authority conditions. Processing typically involves multiple approvals and inspection readiness.
Who is it for / Suitable for
Hotels and hospitality groups operating licensed venues for alcohol service.
Investors establishing compliant nightlife concepts subject to venue constraints and approvals.
Operators requiring a structured pathway for licensing, fit-out approvals, and inspections.
Businesses prioritizing risk-managed operation under clear authority conditions.
Key Requirements
Trade license with hospitality/food and beverage activity scope consistent with the proposed venue.
Premises approvals and fit-out compliance, including safety and occupancy controls as required.
Alcohol-related permits/approvals (authority-dependent) and compliance with operating conditions.
Operational controls for responsible service, recordkeeping, and inspection readiness.
Clients need to provide the following information / documents
Document Name
Notarized
Passport copies (shareholders/manager)
Identity verification for licensing file.
No
Trade license application / activity selection
Must reflect venue scope and permitted activity classification.
No
Premises lease / EJARI
Evidence of premises; typically required for approvals and inspections.
No
Venue layout and fit-out drawings
Submitted for authority review; must align with safety/occupancy requirements.
No
Alcohol permit application file (where applicable)
Supporting documents required by the competent authority for alcohol service approval.
No
Average Processing Time
Typically 30–45 business days, subject to premises approvals, safety clearances, alcohol-related permitting, and inspection scheduling.
What you would get when the application is complete
Trade License (hospitality / venue activity)
Alcohol service permit / approval (where applicable)
Operational approval confirmation and inspection clearance (as applicable)
On-going Compliance Requirements
After completion, businesses must maintain ongoing compliance:
Maintain compliance with operating conditions (including any restrictions on hours, service, and venue controls).
Renew licenses/permits on time and retain records required for inspections.
Comply with periodic inspections and implement corrective actions within required timelines.
Update approvals if ownership, management, concept, or premises layout materially changes.
Government Agencies Involved
Government agencies involved / overseeing this application:
Department of Economy & Tourism (DET)
Trade license issuance and activity scope (mainland) where applicable.
Dubai Municipality
Premises and operational inspections depending on venue classification.
Dubai Police / competent permitting authority (where applicable)
Alcohol-related approvals and associated compliance conditions in certain cases.
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